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 Your Routine
“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.
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
The Expert: Abi Cleeve - Ultrasun Managing Director
Abi Cleeve is the Managing Director of Ultrasun UK, a leading brand in high-performance sun protection. As MD, Abi brings extensive knowledge of sun science and formulation to ensure Ultrasun delivers superior defence against UVA and UVB rays. She is also the founder of SkinSense, demonstrating her broader expertise in skincare innovation.
4. Don’t Skip Sunscreen
Contrary to popular belief, sun exposure worsens acne by thickening skin, blocking pores, increasing inflammation, and weakening the skin barrier. Finding a non-aggravating SPF can be challenging.
Ultrasun offers excellent options for acne-prone skin:
- Non-comedogenic: Their formulas won't clog pores, a key trigger for breakouts.
- Gentle: Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, minimizing irritation.
- High Protection: Provides strong UVA/UVB protection, crucial against post-acne marks. The Anti-Pigmentation SPF50+ and its lighter Fluid version are ideal. The Tinted SPF50+ offers subtle coverage.
- Long-lasting: Lamellar technology ensures lasting protection with less irritation.
- Beneficial Ingredients: Often include niacinamide, known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening effects.
Dermatologist-recommended and Swiss Allergy Seal approved, Ultrasun's Anti-Pigmentation line is designed for compatibility and effectiveness.
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 moisturiser. 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.
