Contrary to popular belief, surviving puberty does not free you from acne. Getting pimples are an inevitable part of life, regardless of one’s age and gender. What’s more, experts cite various factors causing it, including hormones, genes, certain medications, habits, and diet, to name a few.
However, most of us focus on what we can, and other people see that we often neglect the parts of our body that need as much attention. This includes our buttocks, chest, shoulders, head, and back. And because we often miss them, these skin irritants can quickly multiply or develop into bumps, pimples, cysts, and permanent scars, which can be painful and troublesome.
Even worse, the appearance of these stubborn skin problems can significantly affect our self-esteem and self-confidence. In addition, if you aren’t careful, extreme skin conditions can exacerbate emotional stress and may result in depression, anxiety, and psychological disorders that can affect one’s daily life. Therefore, it’s crucial to know our triggers to take necessary actions depending on how severe the condition is.
Fortunately, you can do this by visiting an experienced dermatologist and following ways to prevent them without breaking the bank.
Exfoliating too much and too little.
The skin is the largest and the most hard-working organ in the body. It is our first defense against microbes and other particles harmful to our health. Therefore, it is only fitting that we take care of it by giving it room to breathe. One way to do this is through exfoliation.
In addition, body scrubs can help remove dead skin cells giving your skin a chance to rejuvenate and lessen the buildup of sebum and bacteria that trigger severe acne. It also encourages the growth of new skin cells, which aids in better blood circulation, evens skin tone, and better skincare product absorption. However, this is not a go signal for you to exfoliate every day or every other day.
As much as not exfoliating enough can irritate your skin, too much can strip off its natural oils. This can then lead to overexposure that inflames and damages the healthy layers of your skin, resulting in breakouts or a shiny and swollen appearance. Set a day and time when you can enjoy a nice exfoliating bath at least once or twice a week, depending on your skin type.
For example, if you have extra sensitive skin, dial it down to once every two weeks and gradually adjust according to what suits your situation best. Of course, you can always go for DIYs; however, make sure you do your research and go for products that use organic materials. These gentle and natural ingredients can help you reach more radiant, glowing, and acne-free skin, especially the ones you can’t reach.
Tight-fit clothing on an active lifestyle.
While there’s nothing wrong with wearing clothes that allows you to flaunt your curves, assets, and fits your personality, you need to be careful not to overdo it. Wearing tight-fitting clothes may look good on the outside but can cause clogging and irritation as dirt, bacteria, and sweat get trapped in your pores. This is especially true when doing long, strenuous activities, including exercises, hiking, and playing sports.
One way to resolve this is by carefully choosing clothes with the suitable fabric and material or investing in loose pieces that allow air circulation. Moreover, while showering before a workout may be beneficial to loosen and warm up your muscles, you may want to switch to after-cleanse to give your skin new room to breathe in. This will wash away any particles you may have picked up from gym equipment and help prevent yeast infection, body fungus, and unwanted odors.
Your shower and laundry routine.
There is a lengthy debate about morning or evening showers and which one is more beneficial. However, you don’t need to make it complicated. Instead, assess yourself and choose what suits your lifestyle and needs best. While morning baths can help energize and start your day right, warm baths at night can help you relax and wash away any germs and sweat your skin has accumulated throughout the day. Thus, giving you better sleep and keeping your skin free from irritation and bacteria buildup.
Moreover, wash and change your bedsheets, pillowcases, and blankets at least every two weeks. Observe your skin and how it reacts to your regular detergent. Some ingredients may aggravate acne-prone skin and develop severe irritation. Instead, go for unscented powders and fabric softeners to prevent pore-clogging waxy substances.
Of course, there is no one-size-fits-all technique as everyone is blessed with a unique set of skin conditions and standards. Therefore, you have to be more open to trying new and clinically proven techniques and treatments. But above all, remember that healing takes time, so be gentle and patient with yourself.