Many of us try to find effective ways to treat acne, a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes spots and pimples. However, despite faithfully treating this common condition, why are we still seeing new acne breakouts? The reasons for this common problem are listed below.
Super Dry Skin
People with oily skin are not only the ones prone to acne breakout. Those with dry skin are also acne-prone.
Rebecca Kazin, MD, of the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery and the Johns Hopkins Department of Dermatology, says:
“Mature skin tends to be drier in general so if you are acne-prone, know that dry skin causes inflammation which can lead to more flare-ups.”
Kazin recommends finding the right moisturizer to maintain a healthy, hydrated skin barrier and keep skin clear.
Some of the known natural skin moisturizers are aloe vera gel, rose water, and honey.
Not Getting Enough Sleep
Sleep is a time of rest and repair and to lower down our cortisol levels. Getting fewer hours of sleep means that our body is exposed to continuous high levels of cortisol, which can trigger breakouts. Cortisol-releasing hormones can actually bind to our oil glands, which sends them into overdrive and causes acne.
Washing The Face Too Much
Washing the face more than twice a day can dry out the skin, thus, causing it to produce more oil to compensate. Also, the use of harsh cleaners, as well as antibacterial soaps, may even make things worse.
Popping Pimples
Popping or squeezing acne pushes some of what’s inside (e.g., pus, dead skin cells, or bacteria) deeper into our skin. Those pimples that have not come to a head, in particular, can lead to infection, inflammation, pain, scarring, and more pimples when popped.
Trapping Sweat With Hats
When sweat and bacteria are trapped against our skin, they clog our pores. Avoid wearing anything like a tight hat or a headband as they can only trap them and cause zits to pop up.
Eating The Wrong Foods
Our diet affects our skin. Consumption of more refined carbohydrates (bread, pasta white rice, and sugar-sweetened beverages), dairy products, fast food items (burgers, nuggets, hot dogs, French fries, sodas, and milkshakes), foods rich in omega-6 fatty acids, and chocolates have been associated with acne breakouts.
Instead of eating these kinds of foods, consume more green tea, turmeric, and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, D, E, and zinc. They have anti-inflammatory properties, play crucial roles in skin and immune health, and may help prevent acne.
Trying A New Acne Treatment Every Week Or So
Doing this habit can irritate our skin, thus, causing breakouts. Moreover, washing the face throughout the day also has the same effect. Always remember that when it comes to acne treatment it takes about 6 to 8 weeks to see some improvement.
