For some people, the battle against acne starts in youth and carries on over the years well into middle age and beyond. Acne comes in many different forms, such as blackheads, whiteheads and pimples that result in swollen, red and painful bumps.
At different times, dermatologists have recommended and used different strategies to keep skin inflammation at bay, or at least under control. These treatments have even included resorting to microdermabrasion and radiation, resulting in discomfort and scarring. Such drastic measures aren’t necessary when there are ways you can deal with acne at any age without pain and long-lasting damage to your skin.
Here are four tips to help you manage and potentially eliminate acne at any time in your life.
1. Rely on Gentle Cleansers
Many acne sufferers tend to go for a tougher approach to clearing their skin, which often leads to damaged skin and just as many, if not more, breakouts. Your skin is already under attack from inflammation, so you want to ease up on the irritation that astringents and coarse scrubs can cause by stripping your skin of its natural oils. People often hear “oils” and think that it will lead to more pimples, but that’s only if you don’t maintain proper daily cleansing to prevent the build-up of sweat and dead skin cells that accumulate throughout the day. Look for something gentle, containing alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs).
2. Avoid Scrubs and Choose Gentle Exfoliants
In tandem with tip No. 1, avoid scrubs, which are often harsh and can irritate your skin, even if you don’t suffer from acne regularly. Scrubs seem like an effective way to invigorate and refresh your skin, but in many cases, it just makes matters worse since they technically damage the upper layers of your skin. You can get a similar yet gentler result using an exfoliant consisting of fruit acids or enzymes that dissolve dead skin cells. An exfoliant (or peel) deep cleans your face, unclogs your pores, and smooths and softens your skin.
3. Choose the Right Makeup
Choosing the right makeup for your skin is as important as finding and using a gentle cleanser. Cosmetics can exacerbate issues with acne. The best strategy is to develop a gentle, skin-friendly cosmetic routine with the right products and techniques:
- Choose products with labels that read as “oil-free” or “noncomedogenic”;
- Apply makeup and skin-care products with freshly washed hands;
- Remove makeup after work, workouts, or before bed;
- Clean makeup brushes, sponges, and application pads regularly.
4. Use Trusted Treatments That Focus on Acne and Other Skin Concerns
There are many products on the market to treat teen acne, but you might have other skin issues to deal with simultaneously. You don’t want to clear up acne only to remove moisture from your already dry skin. Search for a suite of acne-focused products that include the following skincare solutions:
- Refining acne wash;
- Clarifying toner;
- SPF 30 sunscreen;
- Daily acne wash;
- Intensive acne treatment.
Maintain Clear Skin Regardless of Your Age
Clear skin takes work and attention for many people, so you are not alone in fighting acne. Fortunately, you can try these tips and more to keep your skin fresh and acne-free. Gentle cleaning and exfoliation, high-quality makeup, and a suite of gentle acne-fighting products are only a few of the many ways you can enjoy beautiful skin.
