Nothing can ruin your day faster than waking up to an acne breakout. These blemishes happen when the skin’s oil glands become overactive and the pores grow inflamed. Fortunately, there are products that can aid you in alleviating this condition. With the proper attention to your skincare regimen, you can take steps to win the battle against frequent acne breakouts. Here are four proven ways that can help you to avoid the next dreaded repetition of this problem.

Oil-free

The last thing that you want to put on acne-prone skin is an oil-based skincare product. Instead, you want to choose oil-free and water-soluble cleansers and treatments. This will ensure that the acne problem is not exacerbated by your skincare protocol. Do not use harsh cleansers that will dry the skin as this will just lead to more irritation.

Exfoliate

Exfoliant products work by stripping away dead skin cells to reveal a fresh and unblemished layer of skin. The exfoliation process prevents pores from becoming clogged with sebum and other acne-causing impurities. Choosing an exfoliant that is formulated for your specific skin type and using it as directed is a cornerstone of proper skincare.

Wash Items You Use Regularly

Even with the best cleansing routine, it is not uncommon for hair products and makeup to transfer to items such as pillowcases and phones. These impurities then seep into your skin and clog pores, leading to blemishes. Getting into the habit of cleaning your pillowcase and other items regularly will help to mitigate this problem. According to ASEA, a dirty phone or pair of sunglasses can cause your skin to break out. These impurities are transferred to your skin every time that you hold the phone to your ear or put on your glasses. Be sure to wash items regularly if you want to prevent inadvertent contact with acne-causing bacteria.

Hands Off

According to The American Academy of Dermatology Association, while it may be tempting to pick at your face, doing so can increase redness from squeezing everything deeper into your skin. Keep in mind that the tips of your fingers harbor lots of bacteria and other impurities. When you are always touching it, you can cause scarring. Be mindful of this temptation and do your best to keep your hands off of your face.

While it is impossible to completely prevent acne from taking hold, there are definitely things you can do to keep it at bay. Committing yourself to these habits will lead to clearer skin in the long run.

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