7 Ways to Combat Acne
Formulating an effective acne regimen is a journey many of us embark on, navigating through the plethora of advice and products available. While acne is a medical condition best treated by a Dermatology Provider, there are impactful steps you can take at home for mild to moderate acne cases. Here’s how to refine your approach to skincare with an eye towards combating acne in any situation.
SELECT THE RIGHT CLEANSER:
Cleansing is foundational in any skincare regimen, especially for acne-prone skin. Look for cleansers with active ingredients like AHAs and BHAs that target acne effectively (you can read my entire blog on AHAs and BHAs that you can read here). Salicylic acid (BHA) is particularly beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin due to its ability to penetrate deep into pores and clear out excess sebum. For those with dryer skin types, a cleanser with glycolic acid can offer a gentler exfoliating experience without stripping moisture. Remember, active ingredients can sometimes irritate sensitive skin, so introduce new products gradually and consider alternating with a gentle cleanser. I only recommend an “active” cleanser once daily, usually in the morning. At night opt for something reparative. Here are my top picks tailored for different skin needs:
FOR OILY SKIN:
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Cleanser
FOR DRY SKIN:
Glycolix 10% Moisturizing Cleanser
2. OPT FOR TINTED SUNSCREENS
While you can absolutely wear makeup so long as you’re cleansing properly, I honestly suggest opting for a tinted sunscreen when possible. This provides protection while offering a light coverage. Sunscreen not only shields your skin from harmful UV rays but also helps with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. My go-to tinted sunscreens include:
3. INCORPORATE A RETINOID AT NIGHT
Retinoids are powerhouse ingredients for preventing acne and promoting skin renewal. Choose formulations with soothing ingredients to minimize potential irritation. Note: retinoids are not recommended for use during pregnancy. Here are some options, but be sure to read the post linked above so you know HOW to use them while minimizing irritation:
4. SPOT TREAT AS NEEDED:
Despite proactive measures, occasional blemishes are inevitable. Avoid aggressive treatments that can damage your skin further. Gentle spot treatments with Benzoyl Peroxide or Salicylic Acid can effectively target individual pimples without overdrying the surrounding skin. If you still feel like you need more tips and suggestions for managing a stubborn pimple, I have collected all my tips on how to treat a pimple like a Derm PA here.
5. MANAGE BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS:
If you listened to my recent podcast episode on lifestyle impacts on skin, you know that there is in fact a connection between diet and skin health. Foods that cause repeated blood sugar spikes can exacerbate both acne and aging skin due to the process of glycation, where sugar damages the collagen in your skin.
I know you’ve probably heard it a million times, but it is so important to incorporate a diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and high in fiber to stabilize blood sugar levels. Opting for "power carbs" like whole grains, beans, and lentils can keep your blood sugar—and consequently your skin—in check and always pairing these carbs with fats and proteins. If you are like me who has a HUGE sweet tooth, I swear by this “skin healthy” dessert (to no exaggeration, I eat it every day).
6. CLEANSE LAST
If you’ve seen my morning vlog, you know that I swear by brushing my teeth before skincare. Toothpaste residue can irritate the skin, especially for those managing skin conditions like acne, PD and rosacea. Ingredients like fluoride and sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) found in many toothpastes can aggravate skin issues. Brushing your teeth before washing your face ensures any potential irritants from toothpaste are thoroughly removed, preventing them from interfering with your skin’s health. It’s truly such a small and simple adjustment, that can help protect your skin from unnecessary irritation and contribute to a clearer complexion. For similar reasons, I also recommend washing your face (back and chest as well) AFTER rinsing out your hair products. Conditioning agents often have ingredients that could clog pores, so it’s best to cleanser after rinsing these out.
7. MINIMIZE FACE TOUCHING
If you think about it, every time you touch your face, you transfer dirt, oil, and bacteria from your hands to your skin, clogging pores and leading to breakouts. Similar to brushing your teeth prior to washing your face, it may seem like a small variable, but it has a major impact. To reduce face touching, keep your hands occupied, use visual or physical reminders, or substitute the behavior with another action.
I think we can all agree that acne can be incredibly stubborn and frustrating! I hope this acts as a reminder that there are things you can do to keep the breakouts at bay. With that, if your acne continues to intensify or scar, please do not hesitate to see your Dermatology provider. As always, please DM me any and all questions! See you next time!
Hungry for more? Check out my Comprehensive Skincare Guide in the Skinthusiast Shop!
**Disclaimer: This post does not constitute medical advice. Please speak to your Dermatology provider before adding any at home procedures or products into your routine!
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