08 Dec Acne Tips
When I was a shy, insecure teenager with horrible acne, I never thought that anything positive could come from my experience. But sometimes we find our passion in the most peculiar ways. My experience has given me invaluable perspective as an Aesthetician and Certified Acne Specialist. I help clients attain healthy, clear skin. It’s the best and most rewarding part of my job!
Acne can make you feel insecure and hopeless about your skin. It can have a profound impact on your quality of life. Acne can affect any age group, not just teenagers. Millions of people suffer with acne.
Acne is the result of hair follicles becoming plugged with oil and dead skin cells. Under these conditions the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), which live in the pores, multiply and cause inflammation. This inflammation causes swelling and redness, and a pimple appears on the skin. It can pop up anywhere, but most often occurs on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders, upper arms, and buttocks.
Acne is a challenging condition because it is not caused by any one factor, but is brought about by a combination of genetics, diet and lifestyle.
Here are a few tips that can benefit anyone dealing with acne.
Try to keep your hands off of your face. Touching your skin can transfer bacteria and irritate the skin, causing flare-ups. Picking at or popping pimples will damage your skin, spread bacteria, slow healing and increase the risk of scarring. Cleanse your face gently twice daily to wash away dirt from the day. Keep your phone clean. It touches your face throughout the day.
Gently exfoliate daily to remove dead skin cells and keep your pores clear. Follow exfoliation with a quality moisturizer. Keeping your skin hydrated with a quality moisturizer will help prevent dry skin cells, which can lead to clogged pores. Use a moisturizer labeled ‘non-comedogenic’ that is formulated to prevent blocking the pores.
Eat fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole grains to ensure your body has enough of the right vitamins and minerals it needs for healthy cells and radiant skin. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in salmon, avocados, flaxseed and walnuts have natural anti-inflammatory properties, and support healthy skin. Studies show that taking a probiotic to help promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria may reduce the severity of acne. Drinking plenty of water can help flush out toxins, too.
Dealing with acne can be painful and frustrating. But don’t lose hope! Seek the advice of a skin care professional that is trained and experienced in treating acne. Follow a regimen developed specifically for you. Be patient! Acne does not occur overnight nor will it clear up overnight, and skin cells take at least 30 days to turn over. By finding the right balance of diet, lifestyle, treatments and products, you can manage acne and have healthy, beautiful skin.