In this age of social media, there’s so much filters, and photoshop, there’s so much pressure to have flawless skin that is blemish-free, acne-free, and free from any signs of discoloration.
There are numerous skin care tips for different skin types, so its imperative to know your skin type before trying anything.
Clear skin is no cake walk, especially if you have ever experienced acne or period skin or if puberty hit you bad.
The truth is, everyone has a different skin type, which basically means, a different method for each person.
In general, people struggling with acne or blemishes have skin that is probably dry, oily, or both.
General rules for skincare
Moisturize
All skin types can benefit from moisturizing after a daily face wash. Keeping the face moisturized may help control sebum production and prevent damage from the outside elements.
The most effective moisturizer will vary in each case, depending on the person’s skin type. Anyone uncertain of what moisturizers will work for them should contact a dermatologist.
Gentle Products
Stay away from products with harsh ingredients that are likely to irritate the skin.
Some of these are:
- alcohol-based products
- toners
- exfoliants
- astringents
Gentle, hypoallergenic versions of these products do exist. However, it is still important to test a small area of skin for reactions before applying any product to a more extensive area.
Pimple Popping
A pimple indicates trapped oil, sebum, and or bacteria. It is also a sign that the body’s natural healing mechanism is working. Popping the pimple disrupts this healing process. Additionally, the released liquids expose the surrounding skin to bacteria, which increases the risk of more pimples. This can lead to permanent scarring. Whenever possible, avoid popping pimples. If they drain, keep the area clean.
Wash your Face
Based on research, it is recommended that people wash twice daily and especially after working out or sweating. Leaving sweat on the skin and allowing it to dry can make acne worse, so it is best to wash the skin as soon as possible after sweating.
Keep Your Fingers out of your Face
Touching the face with the hands can deposit dirt, oils, and bacteria onto the skin and lead to breakouts.
Sunscreen
The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays damage the skin. Wearing sunscreen whenever outdoors can help protect the skin from these harmful rays.
Hot water
Showering, bathing, or washing the hands and face with very hot water can dry out or damage the skin. People who notice dry skin after bathing can try using lukewarm water instead.
Use gentle cleansing devices
Exfoliation is important to help wash away dead skin cells, but some devices can be too abrasive and may actually harm the skin. Tools such as washcloths, rough sponges, or loofahs may be too rough for the skin, causing damage and irritation.
Some delicate options exist, such as soft cleansing brushes. Alternatively, using clean fingers to massage a cleanser into the face may help prevent extra irritation.
Use topical medications
Topical medications may help people of all skin types control acne. Several different medicated products are available, including:
- Salicylic acid.
- Azelaic acid to unclog pores.
- Topical retinoids, such as tretinoin.
- Benzoyl peroxide, with or without other ingredients, such as antibiotics.
Stay Hydrated
All cells in the body need water. The skin cells are closest to the environment and, therefore, may be more at risk of losing their moisture to the elements. Drinking water throughout the day may help keep the skin cells healthy.
Eat Clean
Eating a healthful diet rich in nutrients is important for the body as a whole, and it may also benefit the skin. Eating a diet rich in various plant foods and lean protein sources may help provide the nutrients that the skin needs to stay healthy.
People looking to keep their skin clear may also want to cut out specific troublesome folds.
Reduce Stress
It is also important to minimize stress whenever possible. Research has shown that that acne vulgaris is one of the most common inflammatory skin disorders.
They also highlight the link between stress and acne, stating that stress can increase inflammatory compounds in the body. Strong feelings of anger or emotional stress may lead to an acne breakout or make symptoms worse.
Tips for people with oily skin
People with oily skin may be more prone to acne and breakouts.
Use an oil-free cleanser
People with oily skin can look for a natural, oil-free cleanser that helps break down and wash away excess sebum without adding even more oil to the skin. A number of mild cleansers are available specifically for acne-prone skin.
Wash Hair
People with oily skin may also have an oily scalp. This excess oil can move to the face and encourage breakouts. Washing the hair each day may help control oil and reduce breakouts.
Use Toner
People with oily skin who are prone to acne may benefit from using a gentle toner to help unclog the pores. Products containing ingredients such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid may help balance the skin’s pH and keep the pores clear.
Always wear sunscreen
Oily skin may also be more reactive to sunlight. Wearing sunscreen during any exposure to sunlight may help reduce this reaction. However, it is important to find sunscreens without oil or other ingredients that will contribute to more clogged pores.
Dry Skin Tips
Dry skin produces less oil naturally, which can reduce the skin’s vitality. This skin type may still struggle with acne, which may appear if they use an unsuitable moisturizer or add too much oil to their face to counteract their skin’s natural state.
Find a gentle moisturizer
Moisture is essential for dry skin, but it is important to find a source of moisture that does not clog the pores. Some people may find that their skin responds well to natural oils, such as argan oil, olive oil, Jojoba oil or Rosehip oil.
Use gentle Cleansers
Finding a gentle wash that does not strip the skin of natural oils is especially important for people with dry skin. It may be best for an individual to work with a dermatologist to find the best gentle cleanser for their skin.
Combination skin
People with combination skin have to care for dry patches of skin in addition to more oily areas, such as the T-zone, which is an oily zone that runs above the eyebrows and down the nose to the chin, making a T shape.
Facial Cleansers
Facial cleansing can be tricky for people with combination skin. While some may respond well to a facial cleanser designed for oily skin, others may find that this dries out some patches of skin too much.
People with troublesome combination skin may find that using a general mild cleanser on the face and then an oil-reducing cleanser on any oily areas helps balance the skin.