Avoid excessive face washing, choose gentle products, and maintain proper hydration for a clear complexion.
Many women love to keep their skin clean by frequently washing their face, not realizing that doing so can strip away the skin’s natural oils, leading to persistent acne breakouts. Dermatologists recommend washing the face no more than twice a day, avoiding excessive force when dealing with acne, choosing gentle skincare products, and maintaining proper hydration to improve acne and say goodbye to the “strawberry nose.”
Hair follicles produce sebum while epidermal cells produce keratin, forming the stratum corneum. Under normal conditions, the skin undergoes a metabolic process that includes shedding dead skin and generating new skin. However, when this process slows down or changes, metabolic waste and sebum accumulate on the skin’s surface, forming acne. Blackheads, or open comedones, are easier to remove as their pores are not sealed by keratin. Whiteheads, or closed comedones, have pores blocked by keratin and are more likely to cause bacterial infections and inflammation, eventually leading to acne.
There are several reasons for persistent acne breakouts, including slow innate skin metabolism and external factors such as frequent face washing, dry skin, or insufficient hydration. Excessive face washing can dehydrate the skin, including stripping it of essential oils that keep it moisturized. Dry skin can alter the skin’s metabolic process, leading to a buildup of dead skin cells. Dry weather or inadequate hydration can also have similar effects. Those who frequently use air conditioning or have their office seat facing an air vent are at a higher risk for acne breakouts.
When changing skincare products, the skin may still be adjusting, which can stimulate the metabolic process and increase the formation of acne. Women who frequently wear heavy makeup or use makeup products with high oil content can clog pores and cause acne. Diet also plays a role; consuming too many sweets, such as pearl milk tea, or high glycemic index foods like white bread can increase sebum production, leading to acne and other skin problems.
If you notice acne on your face, resist the urge to squeeze or pop it. Doing so can stimulate the skin, increase inflammation, and risk bacterial infection and acne development. Furthermore, squeezing acne can damage the skin and cause collagen loss, resulting in enlarged pores and uneven skin texture.
To reduce acne formation, avoid over-washing the face; washing it twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, is sufficient. We suggests using gentle, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products for cleansing. Choose products designed for people with eczema or sensitive skin and avoid scrubbing the face vigorously. Hydration should not be overlooked; opt for acne-fighting or oil-free formulations, such as those labeled “oil-free.” Those prone to acne can choose gel or lotion-based products, which typically feel lighter on the skin. However, adjust according to the weather or indoor humidity levels.