THE SOLUTION:
The technique to clear, healthy glowing skin
The technique to clear, healthy glowing skin
DON'T OVER WASH
Although
keeping your skin clean is the most important part of any skin care regimen, it
is important to not over-do it. Excessive washing of the face can lead to
dryness and irritation. Medicated cleansers especially tend to promote dryness.
In choosing a cleanser you should keep the following points in mind:
1. Avoid
deodorant soaps or so-called acne soaps. They are generally too drying.
2. Avoid
cleansers that contain fragrances or dyes. These tend to irritate the skin.
3.
Choose a cleanser that contains an anti-bacterial agent such as benzoyl
peroxide or salicylic acid.
4. Don't
use harsh, abrasive scrubs. Avoid scrubs that contain apricot kernel granules.
ABOUT TONERS
Toners
are often helpful in removing residual oil or impurities left behind by a
cleanser. They can also help exfoliate the skin while refining its texture.
However, some toners are often portrayed by advertisers as doing more than they
actually do. For instance, toners will not reduce the size of your pores.
Important things to consider when choosing a toner:
1. Avoid
toners containing SD Alcohol 40, which over-dries the skin's surface while
actually promoting oil production. The result? Oily, flaky skin. Choose a toner with witch
hazel instead.
2. Use a
toner that contains an exfoliating agent such as glycolic or salicylic acid to
unclog pores.
3.
Choose only dye- and fragrance-free toners.
SHOULD I USE A MOISTURIZER?
If you
have oily skin, chances are you don't need a moisturizer unless you live in a
very dry climate. If you have combination skin, it is advisable to apply a
light, oil-free moisturizer to those parts of your face that tend to become
dry. Drier skin types prone to acne should incorporate a water-based, hydrating
moisturizer into their daily skin care routine.
THE BIG COVER-UP
There
are many misconceptions about covering up breakouts. For example, it has been
said that applying makeup, such as foundation or powder, will cause further
breakouts. This need not be the case, as long as your makeup is oil-free and
labeled "non-comedogenic". Non-comedogenic means that the product
will not clog pores. Here are some important points to remember when covering
up blemishes.
1. Less
is better. Layering too many products can lead to more blackheads.
2.
Always wash off your makeup before you go to bed. It is advisable to wash your
face twice to make sure you've removed all traces of makeup.
3.
Choose a light foundation that contains sunscreen to protect your skin from UV
rays. A great foundation is Photo chrome Light Adjusting Compact Makeup SPF 15
by Prescriptive with titanium dioxide.
WHAT ELSE CAN I DO?
The
right choice of product is only part of the answer to acne. Additionally, there
are several things you can do to improve the condition of your skin. Here are
some important ones:
1. Don't
pick or squeeze your pimples. This causes the pimple to rupture internally and
spreads the infection from the hair follicle into the surrounding skin,
prolonging healing. It can also lead to scarring. Instead, apply some benzoyl
peroxide or salicylic acid once or twice a day directly to the pimple.
2. Don't
pick at scabs. This can cause scarring.
3. Don't
over-use prescription products. Using them only as indicated. Exceeding the
recommended application may only irritate the pimple. It may not necessarily
speed healing.
4. Drink
plenty of water to help flush toxins out of your system (6-8 glasses a day
should do it). Cranberry and carrot juice are also great for the skin.
5. Watch
what you eat. Although foods high in sugar and saturated fats do not
necessarily cause acne, they can make it worse. There are indications that
iodine-rich foods such as shellfish and seaweed, as well as iodized salt, may
cause flare-ups.
6.
Relax. Be positive. Try to minimize stress, a known contributor to problem
skin.
7.
Consider oral contraceptives, which in many cases have been shown to lessen
acne breakouts. Ortho-Tricyclen is a birth control pill frequently used in the
treatment of acne. Talk to your doctor about it.
8. If
you still need more help, talk to your doctor about oral antibiotics.
Minocycline is most frequently used in the treatment of acne. Keep in mind that
prolonged or improper use of oral antibiotics can diminish their effectiveness.
No comments:
Post a Comment