Acne Do's & Don'ts: Don't Freak Out, Fight Back!

Do:

• Be gentle: Harsh scrubbing and abrasive products are like bullies to your skin, triggering irritation and worsening breakouts. Instead, be kind! Opt for gentle cleansers designed for acne-prone skin and pat your face dry with a soft towel.

• Cleanse regularly: Consistency is key! Wash your face twice a day with lukewarm water and your chosen cleanser to remove excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells that can clog pores. Don't forget to cleanse after sweating during exercise or spending a hot day outdoors, as sweat can also contribute to breakouts.

• Moisturize: Just because your skin is oily doesn't mean it doesn't crave moisture. A lightweight, oil-free moisturizer will help keep your skin balanced and prevent dryness, which can actually worsen acne. Look for ingredients like GLOMD Hyaluronic Serum, which attracts and retains moisture without clogging pores.

• Seek professional help: A dermatologist is your skin superhero! They can assess your specific skin type and acne severity, recommending the best course of treatment, whether it's over-the-counter medications, prescription topicals, or other options like light therapy or extractions.   

• SPF is your BFF: Sun exposure can wreak havoc on acne-prone skin. Protect your skin with a non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher every single day, even when it's cloudy. UV rays can worsen inflammation and potentially leave dark spots after blemishes heal.

• Eat a balanced diet: While there's no guaranteed "acne food," a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can contribute to overall skin health. Limiting processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive dairy may also be beneficial for some people. Pay attention to how your skin reacts to certain foods and make adjustments accordingly.

• Clean your phone: Your phone touches your face constantly throughout the day, transferring dirt, oil, and bacteria that can clog pores and worsen breakouts. Wipe your phone screen with a disinfectant wipe or a microfiber cloth dampened with a mild cleaning solution daily.

Don't:

• Pick or pop: It's tempting, we know! Picking at pimples can be a stressful habit, but resist the urge. Tampering with blemishes can lead to scarring and inflammation, making the probledm even more noticeable. Let pimples heal naturally; if necessary, a dermatologist can safely extract stubborn ones.

• Over-exfoliate: Exfoliation can be a helpful tool to remove dead skin cells that can clog pores, but too much of a good thing can backfire. Stick to gentle exfoliation 1-2 times a week with a product suitable for your skin type. Harsh scrubs or over-exfoliation can irritate your skin and worsen breakouts.

• Stress out: Easier said than done, right? But chronic stress can definitely contribute to breakouts. Find healthy ways to manage stress, like exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature. Yoga, deep breathing exercises, and spending time with loved ones can all help to reduce stress hormones that can exacerbate acne.

• Skip makeup (the right way): While you might want to go barefaced to give your skin a break, makeup can help conceal blemishes and boost your confidence. The key is to choose non-comedogenic makeup that won't clog pores. Look for labels that say "oil-free" and "non-acnegenic." Wash your makeup brushes and applicators regularly to prevent bacteria buildup that can also contribute to breakouts.

• Believe the myths: Chocolate and greasy food won't necessarily cause acne for everyone (although a balanced diet can help). Everyone's triggers are different, so pay attention to how your skin reacts to certain foods. Dairy products, for instance, can be a culprit for some people. Experiment and find what works best for you.

Remember, acne is a common skin condition, and it doesn't define you. By following these do's and don'ts and developing a consistent skincare routine, you can take control of your acne and fight back for a clearer, more confident you!

LOVE YOUR SKIN ♡