Given the fact that I have suffered from acne several years, I am now very conscious about what I use on my face. I may not be to the point of being obsessed about it, but I take the necessary measure to avoid any breakouts.
Now let's have a deeper look into the instructions below:
1. Observe cleanliness.
Before touching your face, always wash your hands. I cannot seem to repeat it enough, even to myself. We basically touch everything with our fingers all day, you don't want anything nasty on your face.
2. Be gentle.
While applying a product on your face (with your freshly washed hands, of course), be very gentle. Handle it with care and let your fingers be lighter than a feather.
3. No over-washing.
The more you wash your face, the more your natural protective layer of sebum will be stripped away. To compensate, your skin will produce even more of it afterwards, which isn't such a good thing, as it will eventually lead to the pimples and blackheads you hate so much.
4. Avoid soap.
It's too aggressive for your skin. If you can't stand the feeling of not washing your face with a product, then I suggest you use the most natural facial wash as possible. Make sure that it doesn't contain a ton of chemicals and that the pH balance stays neutral, so that you don't mess with your skin's natural balance.
As for me, I only use water to wash my face: morning and evening. I then apply organic rose water as a toner, with a cotton pad.
As a moisturizer, I have been (lightly) using virgin coconut oil and it has been working great for me.
5. Limit face-touching.
What really made a difference to me was when I stopped my nasty habits. I used to constantly scratch, pinch or even touch my face. Even with clean hands, you can still transfer unwanted bacteria on your face. Apply products with cotton pads if possible.
Using your knuckles to scratch an itchy spot can be a pretty good alternative!
Of course, this rule also leads to the next one...
Of course, this rule also leads to the next one...
6. ...no more pimple-popping sessions.
Don't. Just don't. It will only hurt your skin. The breach created will mostly become another entrance for bacteria, which will only make it worse. Keep yourself from popping that pimple that has been bugging your all day. It will eventually go away or pop itself out (gross). Just make sure to clean the wound afterwards.
7. Go easy on makeup.
Especially when it comes to foundation. If really needed, pick the right tone and look for the "non-comedogenic" label. Learn to accept your small imperfections and embrace your natural beauty.
8. Let it breathe.
One important thing I've learned from my acne breakouts is to stop applying and mixing different products on my face. Our skin needs to b.r.e.a.t.h.e ! The less I apply, the better I feel. Your skin will definitely thank you for that.
9. Eat clean.
Yes, the way you eat also affects your skin. As a matter of fact "we are what we eat". Basically if junk food is what you eat, then you become junk yourself. There is no secret, having a healthy diet, with all the nutrients and vitamins needed, will bring balance to your body. Fruits and vegetables are your friends.
10. Adopt healthy habits.
Stress, pollution and lack of sleep are also our enemies. Manage your time and make sure to have enough physical activity and sleep. Take time to relax, especially after a tough day.
Please note that it's always better to have a skin care professional's advice. If you have moderate to sever acne breakouts, only a good dermatologist will give you exactly what you need, given your skin type.
Nonetheless, these little hacks will have you blooming in no time !
