Up to 50% of women in their 20s and 30s experience adult acne. Here are nine tips to help prevent breakouts:
1. Keep Makeup Brushes Clean
Makeup brushes collect dirt and bacteria. Wash brushes and puffs every two weeks and sponges weekly. Use water with a few drops of cleanser, rinse well, pat dry, and air dry on a clean towel.
2. Choose The Right Makeup
Mineral-based cosmetics with ingredients like silica, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide are ideal for acne-prone skin as they absorb oil without clogging pores.
3. Check Hair Products
Acne on the forehead, back, or neck can be triggered by pore-clogging ingredients in hair products. Opt for fragrance- and paraben-free options.
4. Avoid Cow’s Milk And Dairy
Studies suggest that hormones in cow’s milk may overstimulate sebaceous glands. Try avoiding dairy for a month to see how your skin responds.
5. Use Gentle Cleansers
Harsh cleansers damage your skin barrier, increasing oil production. Avoid cleansers with a high pH or drying ingredients, as they can lead to breakouts.
6. Limit Exfoliation
Over-exfoliating damages the skin barrier, making it more prone to acne. Use your fingers and a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, and pat dry with a clean towel.
7. Skip Alcohol-Based Products
Alcohol-based products can over-dry your skin. Instead, moisturize immediately after cleansing while your skin is still damp.
8. Look For “Non-Comedogenic” Products
Non-comedogenic products are designed not to clog pores. Choose oil-free, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic cosmetics for acne-prone skin.
9. Don’t Pick Pimples
Resist the urge to pick or pop pimples, as this can lead to more breakouts and post-acne scars.
More info:
Adult-onset acne: prevalence, impact, and management challenges
12 common causes of adult acne flare-ups
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