Finding the best skin care routine for acne-prone skin

Finding the best skin care routine for acne-prone skin

What is acne?

Acne is a common skin condition that happens when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. It can appear anywhere on the body but is most common on the face, back, chest, and shoulders. Acne can range from mild congestion to more inflamed breakouts. Dove breaks down the different types of acne to help you choose the best skin care routine for your skin’s needs.

• Whiteheads: These are small bumps that form when pores become clogged and remain closed at the surface of the skin. They often appear white or flesh-coloured and are a common form of mild acne.
• Blackheads: Blackheads happen when a clogged pore stays open. The dark appearance isn’t dirt, it’s caused by oxidation when oil and dead skin cells are exposed to air.
• Papules: These are small, red, inflamed bumps that can feel tender to the touch. Papules develop when clogged pores become irritated and inflamed.
• Pustules: Often recognized as classic “pimples,” pustules are red bumps with a white or yellow center filled with pus. They can occur when inflammation and bacteria build up within the pore.
• Nodules: Nodules are larger, deeper, and more painful breakouts that form beneath the skin’s surface. They can take longer to heal and may require targeted treatment.
• Cystic acne: This is one of the more severe forms of acne. Cysts are deep, painful, pus-filled breakouts that can increase the risk of scarring if not treated carefully.

What causes acne?

Acne can develop for a number of different reasons, and often it’s caused by a combination of factors rather than just one. Understanding what may be triggering your breakouts can help you build an effective acne-prone skin routine.

• Excess oil production: When the skin produces too much oil (sebum), it can mix with dead skin cells and clog pores, creating the perfect environment for breakouts to form.
• Clogged pores: Dead skin cells, oil, and impurities can build up inside pores, leading to congestion and acne, such as blackheads and whiteheads.
• Bacteria on the skin: A build-up of acne-causing bacteria inside clogged pores can trigger inflammation, redness, and more noticeable breakouts.
• Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones — particularly during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or periods of stress — can increase oil production and contribute to acne flare-ups.
• Stress: While stress doesn’t directly cause acne, it can increase cortisol levels, which may stimulate oil production and worsen existing breakouts.
• Diet and lifestyle factors: For some people, factors like lack of sleep, dehydration, smoking, or certain foods may contribute to breakouts or inflammation, although triggers can vary from person to person.
• Heavy or irritating skincare products: Using products that are too harsh, overly oily, or not suited to your skin type can clog pores or irritate the skin, potentially making acne worse.
• Friction and sweat: Tight clothing, sports equipment, or sweat sitting on the skin for long periods can contribute to body acne, especially on the back, chest, and shoulders.

Morning routine for acne-prone skin

The right morning and night skin care routine is a key step towards clearer skin.

• Your new morning skin care routine starts in the shower, with a whole-body cleanse using with 1% clearing Salicylic Acid. This helps remove overnight oil build-up without stripping your skin.
• Follow with a lightweight, non-comedogenic body moisturizer.
• Don’t forget your SPF — a broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from UV damage, which can make acne worse.

Nighttime skin care routine for acne-prone skin

Your night skin care routine is all about removing the day’s impurities. It can be tempting to reach for harsh products to tackle acne, but acne-prone skin is often sensitive, and gentleness is your best friend.

• Ready to wash away the day? A sensitive-skin-specific body wash is perfect for this step, offering a thorough cleanse without irritation. A bar version of this also gently washes away germs and dirt, while treating your skin to a big dose of hydration.
• Once a week, add a gentle exfoliation to help remove dead skin and boost your skin’s radiance.
• Follow with a nourishing moisturizer to repair and soothe your skin overnight. Look out for a non-greasy, barrier-boosting option.

Top tips for managing acne-prone skin

• Consistency is key. Stick to your routine both morning and night.
• Be gentle. Avoid harsh scrubs and over-washing, which can irritate your skin.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin healthy from the inside out.
• Mind your diet. Foods high in sugar and dairy can sometimes trigger breakouts.
• Don’t pick. As tempting as it is, picking can lead to scarring and further breakouts.

What do dermatologists recommend for acne-prone skin?

Dermatologists often recommend taking a balanced approach to your acne skin care routine. They suggest using products with proven ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide while maintaining a gentle touch, as targeted acne treatments can leave skin sensitive and dry..

This story was produced by Dove and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.