Acne is a large insecurity to many students, especially through the hormonal years. Often, pimples are popped and concealer is smeared over blotchy redness to hide the acne. However, those are the common habits that will only make acne worse.
Instead, drink more water and keep a healthy diet. More water will hydrate the skin and flush out toxins. Eating fruits and vegetables with high water content will also do wonders for skin. Avoid foods that are highly processed or fried.
Exercising regularly is another way to reduce acne. Through sweating, the body loses toxins. The body is healthier with exercise, leading to healthy, glowing skin. It also decreases stress, which is another trigger for acne.
Keep your skin clean! As the day goes on, fingers collect dirt and germs. When that grime comes in contact with the face, it will clog up pores and cause breakouts. Change pillow covers often too. Dead skin and oils will collect on the pillow over time and sleeping on acne causing fabric is a bad idea. Also, use foundation and concealer sparingly, and if used, be sure to wash it off before bedtime.
Don’t use alcohol or acid based treatments. The same can be said for the aspirin treatment where a mixture of crushed aspirin and water is spread like a paste on pimples. All of these treatments dry out the face. They are popular because of the antibacterial connotation that comes with them, but honey is just as antibacterial and doesn’t dry out the skin at all. Acids such as lemon juice can also lighten skin.
To reduce inflammation and redness, apply aloe on problem areas. Aloe is completely natural and is also antibacterial. It soothes skin and hydrates it. Aloe can be planted in a pot or bought from a store as a gel.
If professional help is needed, don’t be ashamed. Some types of acne are not caused by lifestyle choices, but by genetics. A dermatologist may prescribe medicine to help, such as Accutane.
Remember, everyone experiences acne, mild or severe. It’s easy to feel insecure about it, but every part of you is beautiful and you should own it!
