While there are many effective acne treatments available today, prevention is always preferable to dealing with breakouts. Skin Care Physicians, a site operated by the American Academy of Dermatology, assures that consistent basic skin care can help control acne. Most skin care tips for controlling acne are aimed at preventing clogged pores and skin irritation.
Sun Protection
While sun protection is widely encouraged for the prevention of skin cancer, the dermatologists at Skin Care Physicians also recommend it as a basic part of controlling acne. This includes avoiding tanning beds. Wear clothing that shields your skin from the sun and liberally apply sunblock with an SPF of at least 30 that provides broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreens labeled “noncomedogenic” won’t clog your pores, so they are the best choice. Apply them after any topical acne treatments, notes Skin Care Physicians.
Cleansing
Clean your face and other acne-prone areas twice a day. Avoid more frequent cleaning, as excessive washing irritates the skin, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, additional washing after perspiring is advised. Avoid harsh soaps and vigorous scrubbing, which irritate the skin, cautions the Nemours Foundation. Use warm water and gently pat your skin dry. After washing, massage in a cleansing product made with either benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. The Nemours Foundation recommends these products because they are antibacterial and exfoliating agents. Be sure to keep your hair clean too, as its oils can get on your face.
Makeup
If you wear makeup, the Mayo Clinic suggests using powder products rather than creams to prevent clogged pores. Choose oil-free products labeled noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic for the same reason, advises the Nemours Foundation, which also reminds you to always remove makeup completely before going to sleep. As with sunscreen, apply makeup over topical acne treatments, suggests Skin Care Physicians.
Shaving
Shaving care is important to prevent skin irritation, as ingrown hairs from shaving can cause acne-like pustules and shaving can damage existing acne, leading to scars. Skin Care Physicians offers a few important shaving tips: always wet the skin you’re shaving first to soften the hairs, and be sure to use a sharp blade. Don’t press too hard or try to shave off acne, as cutting it can worsen the condition. Try alternating an electric razor with a standard blade to see which is less irritating to your skin.
Things to Avoid
Skin care for acne control requires avoiding certain products and ingredients. Many hair styling products are likely to clog pores, notes the Nemours Foundation. If you must use them, take extra care to keep them and your hair off your face. Astringents, some exfoliators, rubbing alcohol, facial masks and toners can all promote acne outbreaks, according to Skin Care Physicians, and some may interact with acne medications. Skin Care Physicians also warns against popping pimples, as this can push bacteria further down into the skin, worsening acne and potentially causing infection.
