Acne is nobody’s friend – it can be embarrassing, annoying, and something you just don’t want to deal with. While there are many treatments and cures out there for acne, not everyone is going to have the same result. Finding a treatment that works for your skin depends on a few variables, and sometimes the expert help of a dermatologist.
So what causes these breakouts to even happen in the first place? Mainly the overproduction of oil; blocked hair follicles; and the growth of bacteria inside the hair follicles. On the other side, along with the above factors and genetics, there are certain patterns you could be repeating on a daily basis to trigger and cause these pesky pimples to appear on your skin. Here are the most surprising acne-prone things you should try to avoid:
1. Using products that contain pore-clogging ingredients
Does your product contain mineral oil or silicones? These are two very heavy moisturizing agents found in some lotions and are also known to clog up your pores and break you out. It’s important to always be reading the ingredients and making sure all the skin-care products you purchase are labeled “non-comedogenic,” meaning your makeup or skincare products have been specifically formulated to not clog your pores.
2. You’re washing your face too much
Believe it or not, over-cleansing your face can be a bad thing. By doing so, you are actually making the problem worsen. Over-washing the skin can dry out the skin, causing your skin to produce even more acne-causing oil to make up for the dryness.
3. Popping your pimples
It is not recommended to pop or even touch your pimples in general. Popping pimples can increase the amount of time they take to heal and could cause scarring. It may be very tempting at the moment, but it’s never a good idea. So next time you decide you want to “get rid of it” by popping, think again!
4. Using way too many products
While there are so many products that promise you clear, radiant skin, it’s so easy to just go a bit overboard when it comes to cleansing your face. However, be careful when doing so, because routines that are complex with multiple steps are often too harsh for the skin.
5. Not moisturizing enough
You should be moisturizing your skin on a regular and not only when your face feels dry. Skin that is well-hydrated is less likely to break out even if you have oily skin, moisturizing is still a must.
6. You’re eating spicy foods
Foods that are spicy contain tomatoes and peppers. These foods are known to contain acidic lycopene that can be the irritant culprit for some people. It may easily throw off their skin’s pH levels and trigger breakouts. Spicy foods are one but there are other foods such as dairy, bread, sweets, or other types of foods. The best way to find out if the foods are what is irritating your skin, take a break from eating spicy foods for a month to see if that’s the cause of your issue.
7. You’re scrubbing your skin too hard
The more you scrub, the more your problems become. Scrubbing your skin too rough may actually cause the acne and blemish bacteria to spread across your skin, worsening the condition.
8. Covering up your pimples
Pimples aren’t the best thing to show off – but did you know covering acne incorrectly can make your acne worsen? As mentioned before, make sure you are reading the ingredients and labels before choosing makeup or skincare products. For concealer or foundation, opt to purchase a light, non-comedogenic product, and always avoid makeup containing silicone or mica.
9. Not washing off your makeup
Each night before bed it’s essential to take off all of your makeup, why? Leaving makeup on your skin clogs pores and leads to sebum build-up, which will cause your skin to break out.
10. Forgetting to wash or cleanse your skin post-workout
While exercising is an essential portion of your mind and body, if you don’t wash your face post-workout, you could easily develop acne. And not washing your face right after, may lead to bacteria buildup. Because makeup, dirt, bacteria, and oil that was already on your skin mixed with sweat will build up when you decide to skip a shower or cleanse. If you can’t wash your face, bring individual wipes with you to use instead.
11. Sleeping on a dirty pillowcase
When was the last time you have washed your pillowcases? Your pillowcase could be the underlying culprit for your acne problems. People with acne-prone skin might want to change their pillowcases more frequently since they gather bacteria.
12. Using dirty makeup brushes.
Are you frequently cleaning your makeup brushes? When you don’t clean your makeup brushes, they can transfer bacteria to your skin, causing breakouts to occur. Depending on how much you use your makeup brushes, should determine how much you should clean them.
13. You’re using the wrong detergent
Detergents contain some chemicals that can be too harsh for your skin. Fragrance detergents for instance can be the reason why when you slip on your clothes or lie on your pillow, your skin is reacting to the residue that’s left on the fabric, resulting in breakouts on your face, back, chest, etc. A great way to avoid this is choosing a detergent that’s fragrance and dye-free.
14. Re-using washcloths
Washing your face with a used washcloth is a recipe for breakouts. When you wash your face with the same washcloth you used the other day, it’s like putting the bacteria back on your face again. Next time, use disposable cotton pads or a brush cleansing system.
15. Wearing dirty hats and constantly touching your face
Do you wear hats regularly and don’t wash them? Think of them as helmets for sports or biking, bacteria can easily build up from sweat that is trapped against your skin and clog your pores, causing pimples to crop up. Also touching your face or resting your chin in your hand while you’re sitting at your desk can easily transfer bacteria from your hand onto your face making blemishes appear.
