Acne forms when the pores are clogged with dead skin cells, dirt and bacteria. If not properly and consistently cleaned, clogged pores can become inflamed and form raised lesions, whiteheads or blackheads. Unless breakouts are moderate to severe, skin can be successfully treated and acne can be prevented with plain soap and water. For more persistent acne, cleansers that contain ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids can help fight breakouts.
Step 1
Take a shower first thing in the morning. In a study by the Urban Life Research Institute in Tokyo, participants who showered in the morning had significantly less sebum compared to subjects who did not shower. Pores secrete a substance called sebum, which is an oil containing fat and debris from cells. Sebum's function is to lubricate hair follicles, but too much can clog pores, causing breakouts.
Step 2
Wash acne-prone skin with soap and water after physical activity. Sebum is one of the main causes of acne, according to DoctorGoodSkin.com. As the sebaceous glands secrete sebum, it mixes with sweat on your skin and can easily clog pores and cause pimples to form. Soap can wash away sebum. Further, avoid using an abrasive sponge or brush since they can irritate skin and exacerbate lesions.
Step 3
Avoid drinking milk. Researchers from the department of nutrition at Harvard School of Public Health published an article in the "Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology" indicating a link between skim milk and acne breakouts. A study of 4,273 teenage boys found that hormones in skim milk (non-fat milk) had biological effects that lead to acne outbreaks. These results, however, are controversial. For those who do not see an improvement in breakouts after eliminating milk and other dairy products from their diet, it's likely that their unique skin problems are not linked to milk.
Step 4
Wash your hands throughout the day. Touching acne-prone skin can transfer bacteria from your hands and set the groundwork for pimples to develop. Washing hands with soap and water will eliminate bacteria, but because bacteria accumulate throughout the day, washing often is necessary.
Tips and Warnings
- Fragrances added to soap can cause skin irritation and breakouts. If your skin begins to dry out from washing too often, use an oil-free moisturizer formulated for sensitive skin.
- Avoid picking and scratching pimples, which can cause scarring and irritation.
Things You'll Need
- Fragrance-free soap
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