What NOT to do for Clear Skin
We have all heard of things we should do if we want to achieve clear and healthy skin, free of blemishes and acne. However, there are many other things that we do, that we shouldn’t be doing, that could be damaging our skin. There are also some things that can trigger your acne without your realizing it.
DON’T Avoid Skin Care Products
There is a common myth that people with acne should avoid using moisturizer. That is not true. Using oil free moisturizer is actually good for you. Don’t let the fear of triggering a breakout keep you from taking care of your skin. A good moisturizer is important to hydrate and soften skin and to create a barrier to prevent loss of moisture from the surface of the skin. Keeping your skin moisturized is essential for its health.
Just be wary and use oil free, noncomedogenic, moisturizer and other products. Use specially formulated moisturizers for acne prone skin that have anti-inflammatory ingredients like aloe vera and witch hazel. The same goes for other skin care. Similarly the benefits of Cetaphil vs Cerave cleansers vary for each skin type. Find out which works for your skin.
DON’T Stay Out in the Sun for Too Long
Contrary to the popular myth that claims that sunbathing clears up skin, the fact of the matter is that too much sun exposure is dangerous. Too much UV sun exposure causes wrinkles, premature aging, and increases the risk of skin cancer. Avoid sunbathing excessively and avoid using tanning beds. The use of tanning beds increases the chances of getting melanoma by 75%, which is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Always take the necessary precautions when going out in the sun; use sunscreen, wear a sun hat, wear sunglasses, and use protective clothing to protect your skin from sun damage.
Be Careful While Using Hair Products
Hair products are a sneaky culprit that could be contributing to your acne. You should wash your hair every day if it tends to get greasy or oily as the sebum from hair can cause pimples, especially around the hairline and forehead. But you should be careful as many hair products can aggravate the acne problem.
Hair products like hairspray and gel clog the pores of your skin. Protect your face while applying hair products to make sure that they don’t get on your face. Hair conditioner is another culprit. Make sure you Wash your face, neck, back, and chest with soap after you shampoo and condition your hair to remove any leftover product that may clog your pores and cause acne.
DON’T Touch your Spots
Tempting as it is, avoid touching your face as much as possible as it may aggravate your acne. Your hands are home to a ton of bacteria, dirt, and oil and by touching your face, you are transferring the contaminants. Touching your spots also spreads existing bacteria to other places on your face. Remember to wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer. And never ever pick at your acne. Popping spots forces bacteria deeper into the skin and causes bigger pimples. Picking at your skin also causes scarring.
