Rising temperatures and humidity levels can wreak havoc on acne-prone skin. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with excessive oil production, breakouts and blemishes. It may be tempting to declare war on your skin this season by trying to dry it out until it behaves, but we believe a gentle approach may be more effective.
CLEANSING:
Clean skin is always a good idea no matter the season. Acne prone skin typically responds favorably to gel-based cleansers, so opt for a formula that contains healing ingredients like aloe, and antiseptic ingredients like tea-tree oil. Avoid harsh formulas that contain harmful chemicals or added fragrance. Balance your skin care routing with gentle cleansing in the morning and the evening, using just your hands to circulate the lather. Avoid using harsh cloths, brushes or scrubbing tools… especially if you have eruptions or cystic acne. Harsh scrubbing will only further irritate the affected area(s), and may lead to even more breakouts and scarring.
TONING:
Using a toner or an Essence is a great way to reset the pH balance of your skin. It can also help prep your skin to receive your moisturizer. Opt for an alcohol-free formula to avoid artificially drying out your skin, and potentially damaging it further. Look for healing ingredients like aloe to soothe inflammation and help accelerate the healing process. It’s common to use a cotton pad or cotton ball to apply Essence but that can waste product. Instead, press a small amount between your palms, and gently press into your clean skin.
MOISTURIZING:
Some of the most effective moisturizers for acne prone skin will hydrate your skin while also regulating sebum production. It’s common to reach for a moisturizer that is completely oil free, but realize that all oils are not created equal. A moisturizer that contains non-comedogenic oils will not clog pores. Some may even help to reduce inflammation and kill the bacteria that causes acne.
TREATMENT:
Extra treatment beyond your basic skincare regimen is a matter of choice. Sometimes you need a little extra healing, especially at night. Your skin repairs itself while you sleep, so adding an extra step at night is ideal. If you have the kind of skin that is reactive to too many layers of skin care, saving the extra step of a healing oil is ideal for your nighttime skincare routine.
MAINTENANCE RULES:
Wear Sunscreen! Everyday. Even if it’s not sunny. Unprotected sun exposure can actually exacerbate your acne, and can lead to more blemishes and hyper-pigmentation. Plus studies have shown that zinc (in physical sublock) can kill the bacteria the causes acne, and help speed up the healing process.
When you get a pimple, please don’t pick it! Instead, keep your face clean and hydrated as normal, and let the skin purge and heal itself on its own time. Picking can lead to scarring, and even a permanent ‘bump’ where the initial pimple formed… because the infection can get trapped deep in your skin’s layers.
Every step you take to look after your skin can help heal current breakouts and prevent future eruptions. Give your skin time to heal, and enjoy acne-free skin this summer, and all year ’round.