Healthy skin can be a challenge for those prone to acne. However, caring for acne prone skin actually requires the same steps as caring for acne free skin. You need to rest, hydrate, cleanse, exfoliate and eat well. You also need to moisturize both inside and out.

Acne prone skin needs washed twice per day. Aim to use a mild cleanser free of fragrances or dyes. Any irritating compounds in your soap can lead to inflammation, which can lead to more clogged pores and breakouts. Make sure to use plenty of water, both in preparing your skin for washing and in rinsing away the cleanser. Finally, pat your face dry with a soft towel.

Even oily skin needs hydration; in fact, one of the reasons that your oil production may be higher than usual is that your body is trying to compensate for dry skin. This means drinking plenty of water. Stay away from caffeinated beverages and make sure you also avoid sugar. The more dyes and additives in your beverages, the more will be in your body and may show up as skin inflammation.

Take care to also hydrate your skin from the outside. Use a light, unscented moisturizer formulated for acne prone skin. Apply this before bed and before you apply makeup. Use a light foundation with a water base. Make sure you are diligent about cleaning make-up brushes and changing out your sponge applicators to avoid re-exposing your skin to acne causing bacteria.

Refresh As You Clean

Acne prone skin needs to be exfoliated. If your dermatologist agrees, try an exfoliating brush with your morning cleansing routine. Clean the tool as directed and let it air dry before the next scrub. You should plan to use your brushing tool 3 to 4 days per week.

Your dermatologist may also recommend an acid exfoliation. Generally these are only to be done once a week. Carefully review the instructions for this process; you may be more sun sensitive after these treatments. Use a timer! Acidic exfoliants will work as long as you leave them on the surface of your face.

Make sure you are also paying attention to your stress levels. Anxiety about your appearance may cause you to pick at your skin. Try to change that habit for something healthier; for example, instead of picking at the skin on your face, try applying lip balm or lotion to your hands. Wear a rubber band around your wrist and give it snap when you find yourself touching your face. Picking at blemishes only give the acne-causing bacteria an easy way to spread. Carefully review your sleeping schedule as well. Make sure that your sleeping space is

• dark
• cool
• quiet
• toxin-free

Treat yourself to a hypo-allergenic pillow, an organic cotton or silk pillow cover, and organic sheets. When you do laundry, try to use fragrance-free soaps and dryer sheets. Avoid using too much liquid fabric softener on your towels and bedding; you need fabric around you that will wick away moisture and any body oils you produce in your sleep.

Change up your diet to cut out inflammatory foods. If your body is prone to inflammation, you may be increasing your risk of clogged pores. Make sure you eating plenty of raw fruits and vegetables as you bump up your water intake. Cut back on foods that can cause a spike in blood sugar, such as

• white flour pasta and breads
• products containing corn syrup
• white rice

Try to eat whole grains whenever possible and avoid high-salt, high-fat sources of protein.

Finally, find a lightweight, low-additive sunscreen to use on your face every time you are headed into the outdoors. Too much sun on pimples can lead to scarring over time. You may have the best luck in caring for your acne by treating these bumps as wounds. Don’t touch, get plenty of rest, follow doctor’s orders and keep them clean. Ready to get started? Call us today at 205-352-9141.