When it comes to finding an effective acne treatment, you’ve likely tried every lotion, potion, and serum out there. But it also helps to get to the root of the problem. In other words, to really treat your acne, you may need to understand what causes it in the first place.
Here are five tips to prevent acne flare-ups and minimize the amount of time you have to deal with their effects.
Reduce Excess Sebum
Bringing oil production down will help keep the pores more clear and give the skin a less oily appearance. Using products with kaolin clay or salicylic acid will help absorb excess oil. Wash your face day and night! My go-to products here are the IMAGE Ormedic Cleanser and the Ormedic Balancing Antioxidant Serum.
Control Bacteria
Excess bacteria will lead to more breakouts! Using products that are antibacterial such as benzoyl peroxide will help you here. I always recommend the IMAGE Skincare Purifying Probiotic Masque—with its blend of yogurt-based probiotics and nourishing superfruits, this fortifying mask balances the skin’s natural flora and helps it resist dehydration and imbalance. I also love the IMAGE Medicated Acne Masque and Eminence Organics Acne Advanced Masque as a spot treatment.
Reduce Dead Skin Buildup
Exfoliate. Exfoliate. Exfoliate. Two to three times a week to keep the dead skin buildup down and stimulate new cell growth! The less dead skin the clearer the pores. I recommend getting a professional peel (available at Cole’s Salon!), or using chemical exfoliants at home such as salicylic acid, lactic acid, etc.
Protect from Inflammation
Add in your anti inflammatories! Keeping the skin calm will reduce redness and further irritation. Using products with salicylic acid, niacinamide, green tea, aloe, willow bark, etc. will help you here. And I know it’s hard, but try to avoid picking as much as you can!
Maintain Hydration
Unfortunately ingredients that help target acne can also be over drying when used regularly. Keep in mind the skin needs moisture to heal! Don’t forget to moisturize or use a serum to keep the skin balanced. I love Eminence’s Clear Skin Moisturizer to keep my skin feeling fresh and hydrated.
When in Doubt, Ask Your Esthetician
If you’re still not sure how to approach acne in your day-to-day routine, please reach out or book a virtual consultation. We’re here to help find a treatment plan just for you!
Bella Minder is an Esthetician at Cole’s Salon Eagan Station. You can follow her on Instagram at @bellam_esthetics.
