HOW TO TREAT BREAKOUT in YOUR TEENS OR ADULTHOOD

Blemishes, Breakout, Pimples, Toxic Acne... A multitude of causes, but almost always the same effect; they come randomly, stay for way too long and almost always leave an unsightly mess (insert: if you pick) when they go. Breakout and Oily Skin is a fact of life, but keep the below do’s and don’ts in mind when trying to help them along as quickly as possible…

DO Leave It Be

I know, I know, I know. It’s tempting as the practice of picking and squeezing is instantly gratifying. But the instant gratification will quickly be off set by the myriad of complications that shortly follow. Picking spreads bacteria, encourages additional breakouts, large pores, inflammation, pigmentation and even scarring. It’s especially risky for those of us with darker skin. Remember a scar healing from those moments of picking can take up to 3 months to heal.

DO NOT Neglect Your Diet

Inflammatory foods, namely dairy, alcohol and sugar may exacerbate blemishes (and a whole host of other skin concerns). A good diet is everything when it comes to skin and just about every other aspect of wellbeing… consider some gut health or skin loving boosters

DO Keep It Clean!

Change your pillowcase regularly. Wipe your phone down with an antibacterial wipe at least once per week. Refrain from touching your face as much as possible. And never, ever go to sleep with your make-up on, double cleanse every evening no matter how late you get home.

The importance of starting your day right - balancing your PH & Oil Levels from the get go - pays dividends for the hours that go by.

DO NOT Forget The Power Of Make Up

I often tell my clients its okay to use maekup all day everyday if need be - just remember

- Always double cleanse at the end of the day

- Consider your choice of makeup - avoid long lasting, colour stay products.

- My personal preference a cream or liquid. Avoiding oil with an oily skin only encourages production. A soft but healthy level on the surface helps to monitor internal products. Avoid powders or thick heavy creams.

DO Treat It Properly

At home, opt for cleansers with salicylic or lactic acid and ensure that you (gently) exfoliate per week while forgoing rich and heavy skincare. Incorporate retinol and AHA serums at night to chemically exfoliate and encourage skin cell renewal. Treat spots directly with blemish lotions (look for products that help digest bacteria and heal the skin)

Professional treatments can help with extractions, too. Sonophoresis, a deep cleanse via ultrasound, is a wonderful option. It works by loosening dirt, oil and debris in the skin while gently coaxing it out of pores. Microdermabrasion and gentle peels work wonders on blackheads and general congestion.

DO NOT Hesitate To See A Professional

If you are experiencing continual breakouts and angry, inflamed skin, a medical or clinical professional will be able to help identify any underlying causes and map out an effective treatment plan.

xx Skin Nerd