Most people will deal with an acne breakout at some point in their lives. In fact, figures from the American Academy of Dermatology indicate that 85 percent of all people between ages 12 and 24 experience at least minor acne. Adults aren’t immune to acne either, as up to 50 percent of men and women between ages 20 and 40 deal with persistent breakouts according to numbers from the International Dermal Institute.
What most people don’t know, though, is that acne is caused by many things. Genetic factors, hormones and even stress can leave those tell-tale pimples on sufferers’ faces. While you can’t control your genes, there are a few things you can do to prevent pimples and keep your complexion clean and clear of blemishes.
1. Suds Up Twice A Day
Washing your face just once a day won’t help you prevent acne breakouts. Washing morning and night with a gentle cleanser helps get rid of dirt, oil, germs and dead skin cells that can lead to clogged pores and eventual breakouts. Dr. Doppelt and his staff have many years of experience in the treatment of acne breakouts and can help you select a cleansing and skin care regime to help you maintain an even and breakout-free complexion. SkinMedica is a great brand to use for morning and evening skin care routines.
2. Watch What You Eat
Get clear skin from the inside out by following a healthy diet. The old saying suggests that you are what you eat, and anecdotal evidence suggests that there are many unhealthy foods that can cause some nasty breakouts. Keep up with a clean diet by making note of foods that are good for your skin.
3. Take A Hands-Off Approach
Plan for a clear-skin future by keeping your hands off existing pimples and breakouts. Picking at or popping pimples now can lead to scarring, irritation and inflammation down in the future.following a healthy diet will show up clearly on your face. Consider following a low-fat diet and avoid sugary processed food. Additionally, consider avoiding hormone-laden dairy products.
4. Look For Patterns
Sometimes it’s easy to find out what’s causing our breakouts. Do you notice pimples where you hold your phone to talk or catch yourself with your head in your hands often? These seemingly simple patterns and behaviors can lead to big clues about what’s causing your breakouts. Both of these actions can trap dirt, oil and germs against the skin and can lead to future breakouts. While you’re at it, think about the last time you changed your pillowcase. If it’s been more than a few days, keep in mind that sleeping against the previous day’s dirt, oil and makeup could be leading to clogged pores and future breakouts.
5. Use Makeup & Cosmetics Carefully
It might seem counterintuitive, but it’s important to be aware that the makeup you pile on to cover pimples could be clogging your pores and causing even more blemishes. If you must use makeup, consider a lightweight, oil-free formula.
Learn about the ingredients in the products you use. Many foundations and concealers designed for acne-prone skin contain small amounts of blemish-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid to help combat breakouts while keeping you covered. Another option is GloMinerals, a specially-formulated cosmetic line designed for skincare professionals and their clients. GloMinerals contains medicinal-grade ingredients to create makeup that covers, corrects and protects with pigments and antioxidants.
If you’re following the tips above and still struggling with acne breakouts, consider calling Dr. Doppelt for a consultation. A prescription product and customized skincare routine can help you get your breakouts under control for a clear complexion that lets you shine.