Most of us have had acne (at least) during one period of our lives. This is one of the most common skin conditions worldwide that affects people of all ages, genders, and races. And it’s not just the aesthetic aspect of acne that creates a problem. It can also be incredibly frustrating and painful to deal with. There are so many things that can affect acne, and sometimes skincare alone just won’t solve the problem. So if you’re struggling with acne prone skin, here are some things that you should know.

What is acne prone skin?

Before we give you any tips on how to deal with acne prone skin, let’s first discuss what it actually is. Acne itself occurs when your hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This leads to all types of impurities, from pimples to blackheads, whiteheads, and even cysts. Acne can be caused by a variety of factors such as hormones, genetics, stress, and even diet. Acne prone skin is simply a skin type that is more likely to develop these problems. Generally speaking, acne prone skin is oily, irritated, and with a weak skin barrier.

Keep it gentle

A lot of people make the mistake of choosing super-aggressive skincare products when trying to deal with their acne prone skin. And this will, in many cases, only make things worse. The most important thing is to choose products that are gentle and non-comedogenic (meaning they won’t clog your pores). Look for products that contain ingredients such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids. These ingredients can help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and prevent future breakouts.

Make sure you also strengthen your skin barrier by opting for creamy and gentle cleansers that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Avoid any products with fragrances or harsh ingredients. It’s also important to moisturize your skin, even if it’s oily. Look for a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that won’t clog your pores. And remember – hydration is key. You can opt for light hydrating layers with the help of essences and toners.

Makeup is important too

Choosing the right makeup products is just as important as choosing the right skincare products. Look for makeup that is non-comedogenic and oil-free. Avoid heavy, full-coverage foundations that can clog your pores. Instead, opt for a lightweight, breathable formula such as a BB cream or tinted moisturizer. If you prefer a full-coverage foundation, make sure it’s labeled as non-comedogenic and oil-free.

When it comes to concealer, look for a product that is specifically designed for acne-prone skin. These concealers often contain acne-fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Avoid using heavy concealers to cover up blemishes, as they can clog your pores and make your acne worse.

Lifestyle tips

As we have already explained, caring for acne-prone skin is much more than just skincare and makeup. You will also have to do some changes in your lifestyle. The most important thing is to avoid inflammation triggers. For most people, these will be foods that have a high glycemic index and cause your insulin levels to rise rapidly. Besides that, you also have to make sure you aren’t touching your face with dirty hands, change your pillowcases and towels regularly, and you NEVER pick or pop your pimples.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

Ingredient Spotlight: Azelaic Acid — Who Should Add It To Their Skincare Routine?