How many times have you fought the urge or the temptation of popping that annoying pimple? Its appearance is like a swollen red bully that is taunting you to squash him. As much as acne can be such a nuisance, it should be treated carefully. This might sound as hard as embracing an enemy, but it will actually do you more good.
However, not all acne treatment measures are effective, neither are they right. Let us go through ten of the common mistakes we make in getting rid of the zit.
Skipping your moisturizer
It is a common misconception that moisturizers will only worsen the oiliness in the area where acne is located. This is why most people don't apply them. But actually, this just makes your skin more prone to damage. Even those areas that have acne also needs to be hydrated properly, especially when using acne medications, since these products affect the skin's moisture levels.
To avoid exposing the area to more oil, use water-based products instead. Hydrating gels are also a good option because they simply make the skin light and non-greasy. A moisturizer that also doubles as sunscreen is also advised so that you protect the vulnerable treated area from further damage.
Scrubbing
You might argue that scrubbing removes the oil and dirt effectively because of its exfoliating action. But this isn't always case, especially if a certain area has acne. The grains in the exfoliating product will have the tendency to pop the pimples open and cause the bacteria to spread on the surface. Not only will is possibly cause more acne to form, but it also exposes the existing one to infection.
Going overboard with the scrubbing is also not advisable especially to those who have oily skin. This will only stimulate the oil glands to produce more oil, which you should actually be controlling.
Over-washing
Washing is essential in skin care, and it also contributes to skin healing. But, overdoing this will only override its benefits since it eventually leads to skin dryness. As a protective response of the body, it churns out more oil, which only makes acne worse. Simply keep the washing in moderation. In fact, one to two times a day is enough to cleanse the skin but not too much to strip its moisture.
Using too many products simultaneously
Sometimes our anxiety and frustration over a breakout can lead us to use as many products available to possibly annihilate the silent enemy. Using so many products at the same time, not only hampers their own effects, but it can end up irritating your skin or worse, create more breakouts.
Not giving your acne product enough time to take effect
Forgetting the sunscreen
Sunscreen may be the last thing on your mind in treating acne But, it is actually one of the most important. Using acne treatments can make your skin more sensitive due to the harsh chemical components in the product. Exposing it to the sun without protection will irritate or burn the skin resulting to skin discoloration. The exposed acne will leave acne spots, a harsh reminder that your battle was only half won. Therefore, put importance in a broad spectrum sunscreen.
Using hot water in cleansing
Boiling water may kill bacteria, but it doesn't mean that hot water does the same thing when washing your face. Aside from the fact that you'll basically scald your face, this will leave the skin dry stimulating your oil glands to produce more oil. Use lukewarm water instead for rinsing.
Popping or pricking acne
The presence of acne is like bubble wrap to most people – they just want to squeeze it until it pops. I am guilty of this too, thinking that removing what's inside will hasten the healing process. That one zit may look annoyingly mountainous, but squeezing it can leave a crater in its place. Leave it alone to susbside on its own, and restrain yourself from even touching it.
Failure to act right away
It's funny how many despise acne, but fail to act while it's still a burgeoning presence. Doctors urge parents and teens to treat their acne right away before it worsens. According to Dr. Richard Thomas, a dermatologist in British Columbia, Canada, even if there are a number of treatments for acne scarring, it is still best to treat acne early on. Not only will you treat the physical aspect but you also avoid the psychological and social impact it creates, especially among teenagers. If you are not quite sure about what to do and anxious for a safe solution, it is best that you seek professional consultation.
Tanning
Whether you are baking under the sun or go for the comfort of tanning beds, you expose your skin to pigmentation problems later on. UV radiation can result to acne scars and studies also show that tanning can encourage the formation of more pimples. If you have to get that golden glow, opt for tanning sprays instead.
Are you guilty of making these mistakes? Call us today to learn about correct and effective acne and acne scar treatments.
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