Your face is clean enough to pass a state health inspection, yet zits stalk you like your shadow on a sunny day. Cleansing is not the answer. In fact, it might be the problem.
Many factors, such as medications, age, family history and hormones, can increase the likelihood of acne, the National Institute of Health reports.
Regardless of what circumstance increases the chance of pimples, acne is the result of sebum (an essential oil the body makes), bacteria and dead skin accumulating in and clogging a pore or hair follicle. If that pore becomes inflamed, raised and hard, it’s a papule, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Pustules occur when pus – the white blood cells that rushed to fight the infection that bacteria, oil and dead skin created – produces a swollen bump with a white or yellow center.
Blackheads form when a pore gets filled with the nasty trio that makes papules. The difference is that the pore remains open. And when the contents inside the pore gets exposed to air, the contents mix with oxygen, or oxidize. That oxidation turns the top of the plug black. Many people think the black cover is dirt. But it’s not.
Given the conditions that produce acne, washing – or even worse, scrubbing – would seem like the solution to preventing blemishes. But incorrect cleansing can create or worsen breakouts.
Consult a dermatologists for medical advice about skin type and condition. The severity of some acne can require prescriptions. Consider using this list to ask informed questions about habits that might worsen acne.
Washing too frequently
Water can dry out skin, especially if it’s hard water. And dry skin can create the three components – oil, dead skin, bacteria – acne needs to develop. Healthy skin requires sebum. Sebum facilitates healing wounds, conveys antioxidants and acts as a barrier against bacteria, according to the NIH.
Frequent washing reduces sebum, and the body responds to protect itself by ramping up oil production. Dry skin can flake and mix with the extra oil to clog a pore. And over-washed skin doesn’t have enough sebum to act as a barrier against bacteria.
Most dermatologists recommend washing your face twice a day, morning and before bed. If you’ve engaged in activity – such as exercising or doing yard work – that left sweaty or dirt on your face, wash off that grime. And do it as soon as possible.
Bottom line, washing too frequently can give acne everything it needs to start and thrive.
Using dirty hands
Don’t wash your hands and face simultaneously. It would seem logical that while you’re using your hands to lather up your face, you’re also cleaning your hands. Turns out, that’s not a good idea. The CDC recommends washing your hands first and separately before washing your face. Otherwise, you can transfer bacteria from your hands to your face.
Selecting the wrong cleanser
The key word is “gentle.” Some facial care products contain physical exfoliants – small gritty bits such as ground nuts or salt – meant to scrub away dead skin. But the American Academy of Dermatologists recommends avoiding abrasive cleansers and skipping astringents and toners. Instead, use gentle, alcohol-free products.
In addition to avoiding drying and abrasive ingredients, it’s just as important to pick a cleanser that protects your skin type. Dry skin requires rich humectants, components that preserve moisture. Seek oil-based and creamy cleansers with glycerin or ceramides.
Similarly, gentle gel, cream and hydrating cleaners are best for normal skin. If your skin is sensitive, you should use gentle cleansers that are free of fragrances, creamy and allergy-tested.
Combination skin might require you to use several kinds of cleansers for specific parts of your face based on what that area needs. And for oily skin, gel and foaming products that regulate sebum production are best.
Pay attention to how your face feels. Switch to gentler products if your skin feels irritated, tight or dry after washing.
Reusing washcloths and towels
When you’re finished cleansing, reach for a clean, dry towel or washcloth each and every time. Even if you have designated a cloth exclusively for your face, it can hold bacteria, particularly if it remained damp for a while. Reusing a towel can transfer dead skin cells and bacteria to your face. And when you use that fresh washcloth, blot or gently pat to dry your face. Don’t rub aggressively. Friction can irritate your skin. And that’s the perfect segue to number five.
Washing your face with your entire hand
Cleanse your face with your finger tips. Treat your face gently. Just as you should avoid roughly drying you face with a towel to eliminate unnecessary friction, don’t personhandle your face with rapid, full hand scrubbing. It’s your face, not the kitchen floor.
Instead, gently spread and work in your cleanser with your finger tips. That method reduces irritation and damage, allows precise, targeted washing particularly near your eyes and distributes your cleanser evenly on your face.
