ARE YOU BREAKING OUT? YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
While we might be putting less product on our face since we are spending more time inside, we can still experience an increase in irritation or acne due to new forms of stress and changes to our normal routine and diets. If you’re new to dealing with acne, or have struggled with acne in the past, Woodside has put together some tips and tricks to help you combat your current breakout.
DEALING WITH YOUR BREAKOUT
Although all skin is different, generally acne can be traced back to one of the following causes: clogged pores, inflammation in the skin surrounding the follicles, the presence of bacteria, excess oil (sebum) production, hormones and your diet. Dealing with a breakout can be frustrating, but here are a few ways you can combat a breakout when it starts.
Don’t Pick at Your Face
We know you have heard it a million times but one of the biggest ways you can protect your skin and start to combat a breakout is by not picking at or popping your pimples. Picking and popping can cause increased inflammation and disrupt skin barriers that can lead to long terms effects like scarring. Instead of spending your time in the mirror popping and picking, you can spend your time not only targeting your acne but creating long lasting healthy and happy skin in the future.
Use the Right Kind of Treatments
There are hundreds of products in the market that can help you fight acne. However, when choosing a product it is important to read your labels and know what you are putting on your skin. Here are a couple of ingredients that can help you combat breakouts:
Retinol: Retinol is a synthetic version of vitamin A that increases cell turnover. This helps rid the skin of dead skin cells which not only helps to fight acne, but also can improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and discoloration. The key to using Retinol is gradualism. Start by using it a few times a week mixed with a little bit of moisturizer and see how your skin reacts. From there, you can start to increase or decrease use based on how your skin reacts.
Salicylic Acid: is a type of Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) that helps to exfoliate the skin and dislodge dead skin cells which helps unclog your pores and reduce excess oil. It can be found in many cleansers, gels and toners and normally does not irritate the skin. If you have dry or sensitive skin it is important to start slow and not overuse.
Pay Attention to What Comes in Contact with Your Skin
Now might seem like the perfect time to pull out old face masks or load your skin with products multiple times a day to achieve a perfect dewy glow. However, you could actually be doing your skin more harm than good. Be sure to look at the ingredients and follow directions as to not clog pores or irritate your skin. Too many new products at once can overwhelm your skin and cause the reverse effect of what you were hoping to achieve.
Additionally, be sure to clean and wash things you are coming into contact with more frequently while you are at home like your phone screen or pillowcases. Wearing a mask out in public is great for keeping you safe and healthy but can also lead to breakouts. Be sure to use a new mask or wash and sanitize your mask after each use.
Finding the right products to add to your routine can be challenging. Be patient when trying new things and adjust as needed. Next week, you can learn more about how to prevent breakouts from happening once it is under control.
