6 Things You Shouldn't Do If You Have Acne
Dealing with acne can be challenging and frustrating, but achieving clear, healthy skin is not out of reach. You can effectively manage and reduce acne breakouts with the right guidance and a consistent routine. This article delves into expert skincare advice specifically tailored for acne-prone skin. These scientifically backed tips will help you navigate the complex world of skincare. Whether you’re battling occasional breakouts or persistent acne, following these guidelines will steer you in the right direction.
1. Don’t Overwhelm Yourself
“It’s better to have a minimal skincare routine because then you are more likely to stick to it and minimise the risk of any skin irritation. This is also better for reaching your goals; the more consistent you are, the quicker you will see results! I recommend the La Roche-Posay 3-step Anti-Blemish System.” – Emily, La Roche-Posay Brand Expert
2. Don’t Forget Your Body
“Acne isn’t just a facial concern; it can affect the entire body, including the back, chest, and shoulders. Remembering the entire body when addressing acne is crucial because these areas are also prone to the same factors that cause facial acne, such as clogged pores, excess oil production, and bacteria. The back, in particular, needs special attention due to its larger sebaceous glands and thicker skin, which can lead to more severe and persistent breakouts. The Dermalogica Clear Start Clarifying Body Spray fights breakouts fast on those hard to reach areas to clear clogged pores and minimise future breakouts. Salicylic Acid helps to remove dead skin cells, while soothing Witch Hazel, Tea Tree Oil and Moroccan Argan oil balance oils and reduces redness. Ideal to use after showers, post work-outs or even on the go. Effective back acne treatment involves regular exfoliation, proper hygiene, and appropriate topical treatments to prevent and manage outbreaks comprehensively, leaving you feeling confident in your skin.” – Victoria, Dermalogica’s Head of Education and Training
3. Don’t Forget to Exfoliate
“A good exfoliator helps tackle the signs of ageing and imperfections by removing dead skin cells, oil build-up, and other impurities, leaving you with clearer-looking, fresher-feeling skin. If you have blemish-prone skin, you might want to exfoliate with a formulated gentle exfoliator like Vichy’s Normaderm 3in1 Cleanser + Scrub + Mask. This is a one-stop solution for oily and blemish-prone skin.” – Dr Alia Ahmed, Consultant Physchodermatologist
4. Don’t Skip Sunscreen
“Look for SPF formulations labelled “non-comedogenic”, which means it’s been formulated without oils or silicones, which create a barrier trapping dirt, dead skin cells and oil, which can exacerbate acne and breakouts. Silicones can also prove difficult to remove, making thorough, gentle cleansing difficult. Ultrasun face formulations are non-comedogenic and free from oils, emulsifiers, and perfumes. Our top recommendations for those prone to problematic skin are our Face SPF50+ as a grease-free daily moisturiser, or for those that love a lighter texture, choose our Face Fluid Anti Pollution SPF50+. Both formulations deliver high-level, long-lasting, broad-spectrum protection and exceptional UVA filters of 95%.” – Ultrasun, Adele O’Donoghue, Head of Training
5. Don’t Be Scared of Active Ingredients
“Vitamin C helps to reduce the redness on the skin associated with acne and helps to improve the skin’s texture. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant that brightens the skin, reducing the appearance of any marks left by blemishes. I recommend the bareMinerals Skinlongevity Phyto-Vitamin C Brightening Moisturizer SPF30; it contains 5% phyto-vitamin C mineral SPF30.” – Maria Xavier-Jackson, bareMinerals Education & Events Manager
6. Don’t Clog Your Pores
“To keep skin looking young and fresh, it’s important to keep it hydrated, so don’t be tempted to skip moisturising even if your skin is prone to blemishes. A lightweight anti-ageing moisturiser will keep your skin looking fresh without clogging the pores. Avoid thicker heavy creams and look for products specifically formulated for oily skin types, like Vichy’s Normaderm Phytosolution Double Correct Daily Moisturiser. Again, it’s best to be gentle when applying moisturizer. Use small circular motions rather than vigorous rubbing. Start with a small amount and build it across your face and neck.”
“If your skin needs further hydration but you don’t want to overdo it with creams and lotions, a serum can give you a real boost, leaving your skin feeling nourished and plump. Most serums are lightweight, so they won’t leave you feeling greasy. Try Vichy Normaderm Probio-BHA Serum, a lightweight serum which targets the appearance of blemishes and imperfections. Starting with the driest area, softly smooth a few drops of serum across your face until you’ve covered every part and leave to sink in.” – Dr Alia Ahmed, Consultant Physchodermatologist.