How to Prevent Acne
Even if you're past your teenage years, you may still find yourself struggling with the same acne you dealt with at 15. Unfortunately, many people live with acne well into adulthood. If this is the case for you, there are steps you can take to treat existing acne and help prevent it from coming back.
You develop acne when the pores of your skin get clogged with oil and skin cells. If bacteria get trapped inside the blockage, your body's immune system will try to fight it off, causing a pimple.
Hormonal changes can trigger a breakout, especially if you're pregnant, going through puberty, menstruating, or taking birth control. Sometimes, your pores can become clogged from the hair and makeup products you use. Or you may break out just from stress.
Acne can feel frustrating at any age, so here are some tips to help prevent breakouts.
Keep Your Face Clean
Whether or not you have acne, it's important to wash your face twice daily to remove impurities, dead skin cells, and extra oil from your skin's surface. Washing more often than twice daily is not necessarily better; it may do more harm than good. Use warm, not hot, water and a mild facial cleanser. Using a harsh soap (such as a deodorant body soap) can hurt already inflamed skin and cause more irritation.
Avoid scrubbing your skin harshly with a washcloth, an exfoliating glove, or loofah (a coarse-textured sponge). Gently wash it with a very soft cloth or your hands. Always rinse well, and then dry your face with a clean towel. (Toss the towel in the laundry hamper, as dirty towels spread bacteria.) Also, use the washcloth only once.
Moisturize
Many acne products contain ingredients that dry the skin, so always use a moisturizer that minimizes dryness and skin peeling. Look for "noncomedogenic" on the label, which means it should not cause acne. There are moisturizers made for oily, dry, or combination skin.
Try Over-the-Counter Acne Products
These acne products don't need a prescription. Most of them have ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid, which curb bacteria and dry your skin. They may cause drying or peeling so start with a small amount at first. Then you can adjust how much you use and how often. Another option is a new over-the-counter (OTC) topical retinoid gel (Differin 0.1% gel). It works to keep the acne from forming. Use these products with caution if you have sensitive skin.
Use Makeup Sparingly
During a breakout, avoid wearing foundation, powder, or blush. If you do wear makeup, wash it off at the end of the day. If possible, choose oil-free cosmetics without added dyes and chemicals. Choose makeup that is labeled as "noncomedogenic," meaning it should not cause acne. Read the ingredients list on the product label before buying.
Watch What You Put on Your Hair
Avoid using fragrances, oils, pomades, or gels on your hair. If they get on your face, they can block your skin's pores and irritate your skin. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Oily hair can add to the oil on your face, so wash your hair often, especially if you're breaking out. Got long hair? Keep it pulled away from your face.
Keep Your Hands Off Your Face
Avoid touching your face or propping your cheek or chin on your hands. Not only can you spread bacteria, but you can also irritate your already inflamed facial skin. Never pick or pop pimples with your fingers, as it can lead to infection and scarring.
Stay Out of the Sun
The sun's ultraviolet rays can increase inflammation and redness, causing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark discoloration). Some acne medications may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Limit your time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, and a broad-brimmed hat.
Whether you have pimples or not, always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least 6% zinc oxide and SPF 30 or higher at least 20 minutes before sun exposure. Look for "noncomedogenic" on the sunscreen label to make new pimples less likely. Read the ingredients on the product label to know what you're putting on your skin.
Foods That Prevent Acne
Most experts agree that certain foods, such as chocolate, don't cause pimples. Still, it makes sense to avoid greasy food and junk food and add more fresh fruits, vegetables , and whole grains to your diet. Dairy products and foods high in processed sugar may trigger acne. Avoid these.
Exercise Daily
Regular exercise is good for your whole body, including your skin. When you exercise, avoid wearing clothing or using exercise equipment that rubs your skin and may cause irritation. Shower or bathe right after exercise.
Get Rid of Stress
Some studies link stress to the severity of pimples or acne. Ask yourself what's making you feel stressed. Then, look for solutions.
How to Prevent Acne Scars
Your best bet to prevent scarring from acne is to treat it as soon as you notice it. Look for acne treatment products with active ingredients such as adapalene, azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid to treat existing breakouts. When you're applying these products, apply a thin layer across your whole face, not just the affected area. This can help prevent the next breakout and new scarring.
As hard as it can be, do your best to avoid touching or popping existing breakouts. Picking at your skin can lead to more inflammation, which can lead to scars. It may take a while to see results when you start a new acne treatment. Breakouts may improve in four to eight weeks, but they may not clear entirely until about 16 weeks of treatment.
If your acne isn't going away, you're struggling with existing scarring, or you have questions about which product is right for your acne type, reach out to a dermatologist.
Takeaways
Acne can be frustrating at any age. If you're struggling with breakouts, there are lifestyle changes you can make to treat acne and keep your skin clear. Develop a skin care routine that works for you and your budget, and make day-to-day changes such as exercising more often, avoiding direct sun exposure, and not picking your skin to keep breakouts at bay. If you're struggling to keep your acne under control, reach out to a dermatologist to find the right treatment for you.
How to Prevent Acne FAQs
Why am I so prone to acne?
Many factors may make you more prone to acne, including your genetics, gender, diet, and the medications you take.
How can I prevent acne before a period naturally?
Hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle can cause breakouts. Sometimes, hormonal acne is unavoidable, but you can make lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and using oil-free hair and skin products. If your acne persists, talk with your doctor about other treatments available.
How can I stop pimples after shaving?
To reduce razor bumps, wash your skin with a gentle cleanser before you shave. Always use shaving cream, and shave in the direction of hair growth with as few strokes as possible. Shave after showering, when your hair is softer.
