What makes Acne worse?
- Squeezing or picking blemishes
- Hard scrubbing of the skin
- Using high alkaline products
- Stress
- Changing hormone levels in adolescent girls and adult women 7-14 days before their menstrual period starts.
- Mineral oil from skin products or cosmetics
- Grease encountered in the work environment (a kitchen with frying vats)
- Pressure from sports helmets and equipment, backpacks, baseball caps, etc.
If I have acne, how should I take care of my skin?
- Clean skin gently. Use mild cleanser 2-3 times a day, or after heavy exercise to remove excess oil, sweat and bacteria.
- Avoid rubbing and touching skin lesions. Squeezing or picking blemishes can lead to scarring.
- Shave carefully. Make sure the blades are sharp and clean. Soften your beard thoroughly with soap and water before applying shaving cream.
- Avoid a sun burn or a sun tan. Many acne medicines make you prone to sunburn.
Can I use cosmetics if I have acne?
- Yes, but choose your cosmetics carefully.
- All cosmetics, including foundation, blush, eye shadow, lubricants, and hair products should be oil free.
- Choose products labeled non-comedogenic (meaning, the will not clog the pores or promote the formation of closed pores).
- Be sure to thoroughly remove all traces of cosmetics at night before going to bed.
When should I seek professional help with my acne?
- When over the counter applications no longer help keep your skin clear
- When you develop severe case of blackheads or whiteheads – seeking the help of a professional at this stage can help prevent the onset of inflammatory acne.
- When you notice that some pimples are banding together, forming even larger pimples.
- When you have inflammatory acne you cannot control.
- When you have clear skin. A professional Esthetician can work with you to maintain clear, healthy skin – prevention is the best cure.
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