Pimples, zits, blackheads, blemishes, whiteheads… Acne by any other name is still acne. Maybe you break out once a month, or maybe your face looks like a minefield. Either way, you’re not alone. Acne is a really common problem. It usually crops up in the teen years, but acne can affect anyone. Some people, especially women, find that they develop worse acne in their 20’s and 30’s just when they think it should be disappearing. So, yes, you may have to deal with pimples for a long time.
There may be no way to completely prevent pimples. Some people are genetically inclined to have them, and others are not. But there are some measures that you can take to help prevent breakouts:
1. Don’t overdo it with products and medication - more is not necessarily better. Irritated skin may actually be more acne-prone.
2. Try not to touch your face too much, and do not squeeze or pop pimples. The bacteria from your hands can get into the pore, making acne worse. The bacteria in your skin can also be forced in deeper, which may spread the infection and cause scarring.
3. Avoid wearing tight clothes and hats. These items prevent your skin from “breathing” and can contribute to oil, dirt and bacteria buildup. Also try not to sleep on your face; this may have the same effect as tight clothing.
4. Gently wash your face twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. This should be enough to get rid if the surface oil, dead cells, and dirt. Do not wash too often! This will not clear the acne, but it may aggravate your skin, causing redness and irritation. Also don’t use harsh astringents or facial scrubs that aggravate or irritate the skin.
5. Be nice to you skin. Use moisturizers when needed and use only water-based cosmetics. Since products with oil can clog pores and cause more zits, look for products labeled, “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic.” Remember to take off any makeup before you go to bed.
6. Pay attention to your general state of health. Get plenty of rest and eat healthy. (You should know, however, that acne is not caused by eating particular foods. Some people think that soft drinks, chocolate or greasy foods cause their pimples - but there is no evidence for this. The point is that a healthy, balanced diet may simply help to make your skin more healthy from the inside out.) Drink plenty of water!
7. Try to relax - stress has been shown to make acne worse.
8. See a health care provider if your acne does not clear up with over the counter remedies. Follow your health care provider’s advice and communicate with them about any side effects.
Take care of your skin!
