Acne: Do’s and Don’ts for Clearer Skin

Acne can be a real downer. Everyone strives for clear, smooth, and vibrant skin. However, 85% of people experience acne at some point in their lives, making it hard to achieve beauty goals. Traditional acne treatments often cost more, constantly draining your wallet. In response to these challenges, adopting a set of "dos and don'ts" for acne management becomes essential. This guide aims to outline the types, causes, and effective practices and caution against common pitfalls, providing a comprehensive approach to promote healthier and clearer skin.

Types of Acne

• Black spots: Open smile dons with a dark centre due to oxidised melanin. They appear as tiny black spots on the skin. 
• Whiteheads: Closed smiles left on the skin. They arise when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. 
• Papules: Small, raised, tender bumps with no visible surface. They are the result of inflammation and can be red or pink. 
• Pustules: Similar to papules but from pus with a visible white or yellow centre. These are often referred to as warts and can be accompanied by redness. 
• Nodules: Large, hard, painful bumps on the skin. They are formed when clogged and swollen veins withstand increased pressure. 
• Cysts: Deep, inflamed, pus-filled lumps that can be painful. Ulcers are usually larger than warts, leading to scarring if not treated properly.

Causes of Acne

Acnе is caused by a numbеr of factors like:

• Hormonеs: Hormonal changes stimulatе thе oil glands, which lеads to acnе, especially during pubеrty. 
• Bactеria: Propionibacterium can clog pores and cause inflammation and nausеa. 
• Production of Oil: Excеss oil (sеbum) production in your skin can block thе porеs, creating an atmosphеrе that promotеs acnе. 
• Strеss: Strеss can have a detrimental еffеct on hormonal balancе and oil production in thе skin. This causes acnе. 

Do’s and Don’ts of Acne 

Clear Skin Dos and Don’ts To Get Rid Of Acne

Do's for Acne:

1. Cleanse Your Skin Regularly: Gently cleanse your face 2-3 times a day to remove impurities and maintain a healthy complexion.

2. Pat Your Face Dry: After cleansing, pat your face dry with a clean towel instead of rubbing, to avoid unnecessary irritation.

3. Exfoliate with AHA or BHAs: Under the supervision of a dermatologist, incorporate regular exfoliation using Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) to promote skin renewal.

4. Use Non-Comedogenic Moisturisers: Choose moisturisers that are non-comedogenic to hydrate your skin without clogging pores.

5. Apply Spot Treatment: Utilise spot treatments with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to address specific acne issues.

6. Moisturise Properly: Even for acne-prone skin, maintain proper hydration by using a suitable moisturiser.

7. Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly.

8. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Engage in activities like exercise, meditation, or hobbies to manage stress, promoting overall skin health.

9. Change Pillow Cover and Face Towel: Regularly change your pillow cover and face towel every 2-3 days to prevent bacterial buildup.

10. Avoid Excessive Oil on Hair: Minimise the transfer of excessive oil from your hair to your face to prevent acne flare-ups.

Don'ts for Acne:

1. Avoid Over-Cleaning/Rubbing/Scrubbing: Resist the temptation to over-cleanse, rub, or scrub your face, as it can lead to irritation and worsen skin conditions.

2. Don't Overwash or Over-Dry: Refrain from overwashing or over-drying your skin, as it can strip away natural oils and disrupt the skin's balance.

3. Avoid Using Harsh Scrubs: Steer clear of harsh scrubs containing physical particles that may damage the skin barrier.

4. Don't Apply Active Ingredients Everywhere: Limit the use of active ingredients to specific areas rather than applying them all over your face.

5. Avoid Frequent Changes in Skincare: Resist the urge to frequently change your skincare products, as this can disrupt your skin's adaptation to a routine.

6. Avoid Touching Your Face: Minimise touching your face to prevent the transfer of dirt and bacteria, reducing the risk of breakouts.

7. Avoid Regular Steaming: While occasional steaming may be beneficial, avoid regular sessions, as excessive steaming can irritate the skin.

8. Don't Pop or Pick at Acne: Resist the temptation to pop or pick at acne lesions, as it can lead to scarring and worsen inflammation.

9. Limit Sun Exposure: Avoid excessive sun exposure and use sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

10. Manage Stress: Take steps to manage stress, as it can impact your skin's health and contribute to acne breakouts.

Why and When to visit a doctor?

Visit a doctor for pеrsistеnt or severe health concerns, worsеning symptoms, or whеn self-care proved ineffective. Timеly mеdical attеntion is crucial for accuratе diagnosis and propеr trеatmеnt. Don’t delay seeking professional help if you еxpеriеncе prolonged discomfort, significant changes in hеalth, or uncеrtainty about your symptoms.

Dr. Sneha Sood can assist you in achieving your perfect, glowing skin if you’re searching for a skin specialist. From acne and skin infections to conditions like eczema and psoriasis, Dr. Sood offers expert diagnosis and tailored treatment plans. Contact us today for flawless beauty.