Did you know that 50 million Americans get acne every year, making it the most common skin problem in the US?
If you fall into this group, you most likely already understand how frustrating dealing with pimples can be. Is an overwashed face not a good one is a question you have at all times been thinking about.
Luckily, we have got all the inside info from the experts on the do’s and don’ts when trying to get rid of acne.
Read on to learn more about common acne treatment mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Squeezing Acne
One of the common mistakes is popping pimples, spreading bacteria and making them worse. Acne that appears can even leave scars and discoloration that are difficult to remove.
It’s important not to touch or squeeze pimples, which can cause irritation, pain, and infection. Instead, it is best to clean the area with mild soap and water and gently pat the skin dry. If the lesion is harsh, you can try it treat ice pick acne scars with a qualified and experienced dermatologist.
- Excessive procedure
A common mistake in your acne treatment routine occurs when you overdo procedures to clear up pimples. Overwashing, over-cleansing and over-scrubbing are common wrong practices.
Excessive washing
When skin is washed too repeatedly, it strips the skin of its natural oils and moisture, leading to further dryness, irritation, and breakouts. Over-washing can even make acne worse, irritate pores and cause more redness and swelling.
To avoid this mistake, wash your face gently, no more than twice a day. Be sure to use mild soaps and avoid harsh washing agents. Use warm water rather than hot water when washing, and use a natural moisturizer afterward to refresh your skin.
Over-Cleaning
Over-cleansing strips the skin of its natural oils, which makes it more prone to irritation and dryness. To avoid this problem, it is necessary to only clean the affected area with warm water and a natural, pH-balanced cleanser. Don’t use strong synthetic products, which will only cause further irritation.
Instead, be gentle and limit your cleansing routine to twice a day and only use products particularly designed for acne-prone skin. If your acne is getting worse, try reducing the frequency of your cleansing routine and using an everyday moisturizer to restore skin’s natural oils.
Excessive scrubbing
When a person tries to get rid of acne, they can over-exfoliate the skin. This practice can lead to irritation and even more pimples.
Make sure to use a gentle exfoliant that isn’t too abrasive, as this is more effective. It’s also important to avoid harsh facial scrubs that contain skin-drying ingredients like alcohol. Avoid touching the skin all the time to reduce the transfer of bacteria.
- Using the Wrong Products for Your Skin Type
It may be tempting to buy whichever product has the most promise; however, finding products that work for various skin types is important. If you have oily skin, use a moisturizer that contains it heavy emollients and oils is not a good idea, as it can clog pores and lead to new pimples. On the other hand, if you have dry skin, you need to find a moisturizer that will re-hydrate it.
Be sure to read the product description before you buy it. Try to buy products tailor-made to your specific skin type. If you are uncertain, consult a skincare professional.
- Trying Unproven Treatments
It is important to avoid DIY treatments, unproven holistic remedies, or untested products. Home remedies, such as baking soda, apple cider vinegar, crushed aspirin, toothpaste, and other topical methods, aren’t recommended for acne treatment. While these may seem harmless and supply temporary relief, they exacerbate the skin.
Also, medicines, such as antibiotics, aren’t safe or effective treatments for mild cases of acne. People with mild acne will benefit more from non-antibiotic treatments such as cleansers, creams and gels.
To avoid this mistake, seek professional advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a customized treatment plan that most closely fits your needs. If your acne does not respond to medicine, it is vital to talk to your doctor.
- Checking for Over-the-Counter Treatment
Many over-the-counter acne treatment options contain harsh chemicals like benzoyl peroxide. This can cause additional irritation and make existing acne worse.
Products high in salicylic acid are also not recommended as they’re too abrasive. It also causes skin irritation and further breakouts.
Fragrances and preservatives are another no-go. The combination of chemicals can cause allergic reactions, eczema, and flare-ups. Avoid artificial tanning creams and masks that are too drying, which can strip oil from the skin.
The best way to avoid this mistake is to research and ask your doctor for advice on safe ingredients. Another important thing to do is read labels and look for ingredients that may worsen or irritate acne (alcohol, fragrance, menthol, and sodium lauryl sulfate).
- Not Monitoring Your Diet
Eating processed foods, including sugar and dairy, can increase inflammation, which leads to acne breakouts. On the other hand, eating too few calories or not eating enough healthy food can even lead to unhealthy skin.
To avoid these mistakes, acne victims should focus on eating more lean protein, fruits, and vegetables with less carbohydrates and unsaturated fats. They should also drink lots of water to keep their skin hydrated. Avoiding processed foods and sugary snacks, such as candy and soda, is important for keeping skin clean.
- Not Using Sunscreen
Exposure to sunlight and UV rays can exacerbate acne by creating inflammation and clogging pores. It can even lead to post-acne scarring, which is tougher to treat.
Sunscreen should be used every morning, even on cooler or cloudy days. Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30, and reapply it every two hours. This is particularly important if you sweat or spend time outdoors.
Remember to apply sunscreen to all parts of your body exposed to the sun, including your face, neck and other areas with acne. Use a sunscreen for acne-prone skin that will not clog or irritate your pores.
Common Mistakes in Acne Treatment You Should Avoid
Acne is a universal problem but difficult to treat effectively. Common acne treatment mistakes can lead to increased skin irritation, pain, and scarring. Avoid popping pimples, overdoing procedures, using the wrong products for your skin type, trying unproven remedies and over-the-counter treatments, not monitoring your diet, and not using sunscreen.
Seek the help of a dermatologist if you feel stuck trying acne solutions.
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