Are you properly caring for your acne-prone skin?
While acne usually appears during puberty, adults well into their 50s can even develop acne. Acne is one of the most common skin problems, affecting 40 to 50 million Americans. Furthermore, the American Academy of Dermatology also reports that almost 85 percent of all people will experience acne. If you’re dealing with acne, then you are most likely looking for ways to get clearer skin. Along with visiting a dermatologist for medications and other treatment options, here are some helpful tips that could improve your acne from the comfort of home.
Avoid Over-Washing Your Face
At the first sign of a pimple, you might feel the need to scrub your face as clean as possible. However, over-washing can strip skin of the essential oils, making acne worse. Plus, acne washes contain strong chemicals which dry out the skin. Try this approach instead: wash acne twice a day with only a mild face wash and lukewarm water. This will help reduce irritation.
Only Use Oil-Free Products
Oil-free cleansers won’t cause acne or clog pores, so they are the best choice for anyone, particularly those prone to acne. When shopping for acne products, look for words like “oil-free” or “noncomedogenic.”
Limit Sun Exposure
The sun’s rays can dry out the skin and aggravate acne. Not to mention sunbathing can cause wrinkles and even skin cancer. If you are using prescription acne medications, you’ll most certainly want to avoid the sun (medicines often come with warning labels about sun exposure), as it can make you more sensitive to UV rays.
Don’t Pick or Touch Your Face
When you notice a pimple, your first inclination might be to pop or squeeze it; however, think twice before touching your skin. Our fingers and hands carry a lot of germs, which only get transferred to the skin. Plus, popping that pesky pimple could only push bacteria further into the skin, causing infection and scarring. Talk to your dermatologist about extractions.
Know Your Treatment Options
Suppose you aren’t happy with how your acne responds to over-the-counter treatments. In that case, a dermatologist has various options, from effective cleansers to hormonal treatments to extractions and antibiotics. We can get you on the road to clearer skin.
If you are having trouble clearing up acne on your own, then a dermatologist will be the ideal medical specialist to help you determine the cause of your acne and how to treat it effectively. If at-home care isn’t effective enough, call your dermatologist for a consultation.