This is probably not the first “Tips for Acne Sufferers” article you have read and it probably won’t be your last. I know all too well that hopeless feeling you get waking up in the morning to have yet another pimple to greet you. Although I can guarantee there’s a lot of trial and error when it comes to trying to banish your acne, here are 3 tips I think have actually been helpful.
Tip 1: Watch what you put in your body!
In simple terms, acne is pretty much an internal problem. Proper diet and lifestyle choices can be super beneficial for your skin. Acne is basically when your hormones become out of whack (consider the fact you tend to break out before your period when your hormones are fluctuating), so eating your veggies and exercising can balance these acne-causing hormones! Also, water is the Holy Grail for those who suffer with acne. The bacteria and toxins in your skin need water in order to be flushed out of your system. Lack of hydration ultimately leads to these bacteria being trapped in your skin (gross, I know).  So start drinking! It has also been suggested to cut out as much dairy as possible for a couple weeks and see if you notice improvement! There is a link between the two; suggesting the hormones found in milk/cream could trigger acne. Although I still eat cheese, I switched cream in my coffee to soy milk for three weeks, and honestly I’ve noticed that I’m getting less pimples.
Tip 2: Relax, seriously.
For one, stressing about your acne will cause more acne- ironic isn’t it? Sebum is the oily substance that clogs your pores, and Web MD says that “stress promotes the production of sebum, the oil that clogs pores and causes acne.” I know it’s hard to say “relax” during school but practicing breathing exercises, or doing anything that puts your mind at ease will be beneficial to your skin. I would suggest writing in a journal. This is a perfect way to release any stress you might be encountering, whether it’s stress about school, family/friends, or whatever.Â
Tip 3: Products! Products! Products!
Buying products; where do I start? First, know your skin type! If you have dry/sensitive skin and you’re buying a product with intense acne fighting ingredients such as Benzoyl Peroxide, this will most likely murder your face. If you have dry/sensitive skin and want a product with an acne-fighting ingredient, I would suggest Clean and Clear Dual Action Moisturizer. It has salicylic acid, an acne-fighting ingredient that won’t dry your skin out completely. Make sure you are buying products that clearly state “non-comedogenic” (meaning: won’t clog your pores). Right now I am using St. Ives Green Tea Cleanser, with the moisturizer mentioned earlier and I think I can see the light at the end of the tunnel! I would suggest switching your routine after a month or so if it really isn’t helping. Why keep using the same product if your skin isn’t improving or even getting worse?
Remember, if it really isn’t improving, seeing a dermatologist to get a professional opinion is always an option. Don’t let acne get you down; it is usually just a temporary problem. To recap the tips, you cannot solely rely on products and topical treatments. Try to fight your acne from the inside of your body and out. Diet is key! Good luck on your fight for clear skin!