A careful skin care regimen will only slightly affect whether or not you get acne. However, healthy skin and the treatment of acne are highly contingent on good skin care habits.
Although some people believe that acne can be prevented by scrubbing diligently, they are mistaken. As a matter of fact, washing your face has very little effect on whether or not you develop acne. This generally happens after acne has already developed.
In most cases, scrubbing isn’t the answer. The skin often dries out and is merely roughened. When harsh treatment exposes the lower skin layers, these layers are forced to develop a protective coat consisting of oil and outer dermis. In the meantime, the skin suffers from the exposure to bacteria, both by contact and by the air. Our front-line barrier to dirt and germs is our skin. It does not enhance the health of our skin to remove multiple layers of it at once.
The answer, instead, is to use a mild cleanser and gently wash. Be sure to be thorough and do a good job. Take care of your shoulders, back and chest as well as the face in the shower, since acne can occur on those areas as well. A mild cleaning from underneath the jaw to the hairline is beneficial during midday and in the evening.
Removing every trace of natural skin oil or sebum, which plays a role in developing acne, is not favorable. Micro-cracks are discouraged from forming because of the flexibility that sebum provides the skin. These micro-cracks are the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. If the skin becomes excessively dry, small cracks can occur in the outer layers.
If using astringents to reduce excess oil, do not use them too frequently. Acne washes available without a prescription are precisely developed to attain the proper equilibrium. Make sure to follow the directions when you use them.
Of course, one challenge always is shaving. The hardest problem to solve is the faces of men. When there are skin conditions and/or blemishes, electric razors might help men to stay well groomed, but they can still nick the skin surface like a traditional razor. The best way is to be patient and use movements which are careful and deliberate.
Another helpful tip is to use a softener before shaving. It is fine to use either a manual or electric safety razor. It does not play an important part in the development of acne. Acne is caused by different reasons including ingrown hair and clogged pores. It is important, though, to shave with, not against the grain of the hair. The process can be enhanced by using warm water and soap to soften up the beard.
For women, there are some other recommendations that can be helpful.
These days, makeup selection is easier. Many make-up formulas exist that address acne concerns. They are especially designed to keep pores from clogging. Using foundation sparingly may help. Use subtle check blush rather than caking it on. Non-comedogenic is what you should look for on a makeup label. Mild acne which includes black and whiteheads is called comedones.
Over-the-counter antibacterials are most helpful after an outbreak has developed. It is important to follow all directions. When you over medicate, the result can be clogging of the pores and damage to the skin which is exactly what you want to avoid.
The key to minimizing outbreaks in order to allow for natural oil movement and shedding skin cells is keeping pores open. Both are aided by proper skin care practices.
