Acne is the worst. Most of us do everything we can to keep acne at bay, but alas, we keep getting pimples. Don’t despair! We’re here to help examine all of the possible causes. The first step in remedying the problem is to find the culprit.
Clean Sheets
We’re all guilty of going too long without washing our sheets, but we need to wash our sheets and pillowcases regularly because they accumulate bacteria. Everything from sweat to hairspray and more lives in your pillowcase, exposing your face to the elements all night long.
You should be washing your sheets at least once a week. Get into the routine of keeping your sheets clean and you’ve eliminated germs and bacteria that could be the cause of your acne.
Your Diet
Overeating junk food filled with sugar and salt could be the cause of your acne. Dermatology studies are now saying we can’t dismiss evidence that what you eat could be a major contributing factor. Ever notice acne breakouts after spending a night at the movies, eating buttery popcorn, candy, and soda? There’s a possible link to the sugar you consumed the night before. Sugar floods the bloodstream and, without a balance of nutrients and water, they can build up and cause problems.
Though the evidence is slightly weaker, many people swear by a dairy-free diet. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, dairy, specifically cow’s milk, will lead to more acne, as one study shows.
To clear up acne caused by a poor diet, let the “food be thy medicine” be your conviction. Drink plenty of water & green tea, eat fruits and vegetables, and your body will rid itself of toxins. As a bonus, you might save on medical bills down the road and feel more energetic with these healthy eating habits!
Genetics
Acne can be hereditary. If your parents or even just one parent had acne, the burden would likely fall on you.
See your dermatologist. Your dermatologist will examine your skin and be able to prescribe treatments to prevent acne. Always cleanse your face in the morning and evening. It’s important that you remove makeup before going to bed. Exfoliate once per week to un-clog pores.
Ingredients
Certain ingredients in makeup can cause acne. Things you have allergies to can lead to breakouts. For example, If you’re allergic to soy or beeswax and apply those ingredients to your skin, your face can be riddled with bumps the next day, so always check ingredients.
If you’re unsure what could be causing your acne eruption, try the process of elimination. Remove one item from your routine one at a time for 2-4 weeks and see if your skin improves. Then slowly reintroduce things to see what causes the problem.
Too Many Skin Treatments
Too much exfoliation or acne treatment will not be a powerhouse to fight the bacteria, but it can wreak havoc on your skin and cause more breakouts.
You may think layering on once cleansers, oils, treatment, or oil-free products will dry out your spots, but they have the potential to have the opposite effect. Using mild products and one proper acne treatment is the best way to go.
Over-drying the skin and over-treating will only cause more problems.