Say Goodbye to Acne and Hello to Smooth Skin

Although pimples are often associated with teenagers, stubborn cases of acne can affect people of all ages. Whether you suffer from whiteheads, blackheads or painful cystic bumps on your face or body, consider adopting a series of skincare and lifestyle changes.

This can help get rid your pores of the oil, grime and bacteria that can negatively affect your skin’s condition.

Although it isn’t the sole cause of your acne, stress is suspected to trigger and worsen breakouts. If you find your skin flaring up during periods of anxiousness, find ways to relax that will take your mind off of hectic situations.

In addition to simple practices such as taking deep breaths and visualizing yourself in a calm scenario, consider long-term habits like practicing meditation, delegating or journaling to become more aware of your blessing so you’ll focus less on your worries.

When battling acne, attempt to curb or prevent breakouts by improving your skincare routine. If you typically don’t cleanse your face nightly or after working out, for instance, be sure to remove impurities with a product that includes salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.

After gently patting your face dry, apply an over-the-counter treatment cream to trouble patches and follow up with an oil-free moisturizer. When heading out for the day, add a layer of sunscreen to prevent further skin damage from the sun’s harmful rays.

It might seem as if popping pimples and picking off scabs improves the condition of your skin, at least temporarily. However, not only does the constant squeezing introduce more dirt and oil to your face, but it can also cause bacteria to harmfully push back into your pores.

Touching your acne can also lead to scars and craters that will be difficult to fade and heal.

Despite the fact that it tastes good, processed junk foods and even items such as pasta and dairy products can lead to a boost in blood sugar that can trigger breakouts. Study how your eating habits affect your skin to steer clear of things that cause flare ups.

Generally, consuming fresh fruits and vegetables such as carrots, leafy greens and blueberries, whole grains like quinoa, lean meats like salmon and turkey, and legumes like nuts and peas are beneficial to your skin.

Staying physically fit will not only help you reduce the stress that can trigger acne, but it is also said to keep pimples at bay by pushing toxins out of pores and improving blood flow to your skin.

Be sure not to make flare ups worse, however, by failing to cleanse as soon as possible after working out. A shower and face wash will help you remove sweat and oil from your skin that could exacerbate pimples.

Drinking water can keep your skin hydrated, improve its condition and flush out the impurities that can cause pimples. Consuming 4-8 glasses each day can also help reduce redness and battle wrinkles.

In addition to drinking water, beverages such as matcha, green and turmeric tea have also been shown to contain antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and possibly reduce acne formation.

If you’ve spent considerable time and money on products and lifestyle changes in an attempt to clear up your acne and haven’t seen any results, make an appointment with your general practitioner or a dermatologist.

Some cases of stubborn acne may not be cleared up with anything except for medications such as Accutane, antibiotics or prescription-grade topical gels or creams. Doctors may even uncover an underlying medical problem that is causing your skin condition and give you the tools to treat it.

Acne can do more than just affect your appearance. Suffering with pimples and scars can also affect your self-esteem and mental health. Take the time to improve the condition of your skin to ensure you’re looking and feeling good for years to come.