Pimples aka acne, occur when your skin’s oil glands are overactive and pores become inflamed. There are some types of skin bacteria that may make pimples worse. Pimples can appear anywhere on the skin, but they most often occur on the face. In some cases, genetics account for pimples on the face, there’s no surefire way to prevent them. However, here are tips to take care of skin from pimples:
1. Wash your face properly
To help prevent pimples, it’s important to remove excess oil, dirt, and sweat daily. You can achieve this by washing your face regularly. Mind you don’t use harsh cleansers because they result to dry skin. Instead use an alcohol-free cleanser.
2. Know your skin type
Oily skin is the most pimple-prone. However, anyone can get pimples, no matter their skin type. It is caused by your skin’s sebaceous glands producing too much oily sebum. Knowing your skin type will help you choose the right skincare products.
3. Moisturise! Moisturise! Moisturise!
Moisturisers help skin stay hydrated. But many moisturisers contain oil, synthetic fragrance, or other ingredients that may irritate skin and cause pimples. To help prevent pimples, use fragrance-free, noncomedogenic moisturizers after you wash your face or when your skin feels dry.
4. Stay hydrated
If you’re dehydrated, your body may signal your skin’s oil glands to produce more oil. Dehydration also gives your skin a dull appearance and promotes inflammation and redness. To keep your body well-hydrated, drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day.
5. Use makeup sparingly
While it might be tempting, don’t use makeup to cover up pimples. This may clog pores and trigger outbreaks. Go all natural when you can. When you do wear makeup, avoid greasy, heavy foundation, and use products that are noncomedogenic, sheer, and fragrance-free. Note that greasy or oily shampoos, body washes, shaving creams, and hair styling products may all cause pimples.
6. Limit sun exposure
Frequent sun exposure dehydrates the skin, which over time causes it to produce more oil and block pores. It’s important to wear sunscreen to help prevent skin cancer. However, many sunscreens are oily. For both sun and pimple protection, wear a noncomedogenic, oil-free sunscreen.
7. Avoid certain foods
According to a 2010 review, eating a high glycemic diet may cause acne. High glycemic foods and beverages such as chips, baked goods made with white flour, and soft drinks spike blood sugar levels and are often less nutritious than low glycemic foods. The study also found eating dairy may trigger pimples.
8. Reduce stress
Stress doesn’t cause pimples, but it may make them worse. Try engaging in yoga, meditation, journaling, massage and aromatherapy to manage stress.