Acne vulgaris, better known as just acne has plagued the lives of many of us since our teenage years. It wasn’t controllable then and now it seems even more adamant about leaving our faces. However, now that we are older and hopefully wiser, we could do things differently.
Here are some tips to help keep your face clean and acne free, or at least reducing your risk of getting them frequently:
1. Keep your face clean. Always wash your face twice daily using warm water and a mild facial cleanser. Harsh soaps can do more harm than good.
2. Do not scrub your skin with a washcloth. Gently wash it with a washcloth or a very soft cloth and always rinse well, then dry with a clean towel.
3. Moisturize. Avoid products which dry out your skin.
4. Try an over-the-counter acne product. These acne products don’t need a prescription. They may have ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid, which curb bacteria and dry your skin.
5. Avoid packing on your makeup. Use it sparingly.
6. Watch what you put on your hair. Avoid using fragrances, oils, or gels on your hair. If they get on your face, they can block your skin’s pores and irritate your skin.
7. Keep your hands off your face. Avoid touching your face or propping your cheek or chin on your hands.
8. Stay out of the sun.
9. Feed your skin. Avoid greasy foods and junk. Try to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. Minimise sugary and dairy products.
10. Exercise daily.
11. Relax. Stress has been known to cause pimple outbreaks. Relaxation will help your body to feel calmer and better so all those stress hormones will be at a minimum, thereby reducing your risk for acne outbreaks.
