Welcome to our blog about skin care and acne prevention. Healthy skin is often an indicator of good overall health, so it is important to keep it looking and feeling its best. In this blog, we will cover the basics of skincare, as well as learn about prevention methods that can help you keep your skin clear and blemish-free. From exfoliating, moisturizing, and cleansing to understanding the difference between several types of acne and how to treat them, you will find everything you need here. So come along on this journey with us as we explore the world of healthy skin.
Acne 101
Acne happens when the pores of your skin become clogged with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. There are diverse types of acne, including blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, and nodules. Whiteheads look like tiny white bumps on the surface of the skin, while blackheads appear as dark dots due to their oxidized oils. Cysts are large, pus-filled lesions that can be painful and cause scarring. Nodules are hard lumps beneath the surface of the skin that may also lead to scarring. It is important to understand which type of acne you experience to effectively treat it.
Non-inflammatory Acne
Whiteheads (closed comedones): Tiny congested pores that manifest as a white bud ensue when an obstruction of dead skin cells and oil occur. A layer of skin covers the congested pore, causing the bump formation, and the dead skin cells and sebum appear white.
Blackheads (open comedones): These are clogged pores from oil and sebum production that are open to air leading to oxidization. This is what causes the black appearance.
Inflammatory Acne
Papules: Reddish pimples, which become inflamed and position themselves nearer to the skin’s surface, can be observed. They may turn sensitive to touch and usually have a diameter of less than five millimetres.
Pustules: These pimples contain pus, and at the centre, usually appear either yellow or white.
Nodules: Deep-seated acne is a type of acne that is both difficult and uncomfortable, as it penetrates deeper into the skin and has the potential to result in acne scarring.
Cysts: Subcutaneous bumps that are comparable to nodules. These bumps may be sensitive to touch and have the potential to induce scarring. Pustules are characterized by the presence of pus.
Tips to prevent acne
When breakouts arise, there are numerous remedies at your disposal. Moreover, you can take simple measures to prevent breakouts from occurring in the first place. The first step in achieving this is to establish an acne skincare routine that aligns with your skin type and identify products that work effectively.
- Double cleansing is a two-step cleansing technique that involves using two different cleansing products to thoroughly purify your skin. The first step involves using an oil-based cleanser to remove any makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil from your pores. The second step involves using a water-based cleanser to clean your skin of any remaining impurities such as dirt, sweat, and bacteria. By double cleansing, individuals can ensure that their skin is free of any residual impurities that can cause breakouts or clogged pores. It is crucial to note that double cleansing may not be suitable for everyone and may require experimenting with different products to determine what works best for your skin type.
- Using a non-greasy or oil-free moisturizer is a major step in maintaining healthy, flawless skin. While moisturization is critical to keeping your skin hydrated and supple, using greasy or oil-based moisturizers can potentially cause breakouts, especially for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin. Additionally, such moisturizers can help balance out your skin’s natural oils while still providing the necessary hydration to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy.
- Sun damage from harmful UV rays can lead to fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of premature aging. A sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher is recommended, as it helps to block out harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun. Applying sunscreen daily, regardless of the weather or time of year, is essential to protecting your skin’s health. It is important to remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
- It is essential to resist the urge to squeeze, pop, pinch, or pick at any pimples or breakouts on your skin. Doing so can lead to further inflammation, scarring, and even an increased risk of infection. Instead, allow the pimple or breakout to heal naturally or seek professional advice from a dermatologist if needed. If you must touch your face, ensure that your hands are clean and avoid placing them on any affected areas. Picking at your skin can also introduce bacteria from your hands and nails, which could cause additional breakouts or infections.
- Take a collagen supplement. Collagen supplements have become a popular way of addressing diverse skin concerns, including acne. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein required for the elasticity and strength of the skin. Studies have shown that supplementing with collagen can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture and hydration, and reduce inflammation, which is a significant contributor to acne. When collagen is ingested, it stimulates the body’s collagen production, leading to improved skin health. Our collagen capsules, AusVital Nutrients® HSN Collagen Plus are a rich source of collagen which will help keep your skin looking supple.
Benefits of a good skincare routine
Maintaining a regular skincare routine is essential to promote healthy, beautiful skin. Here are some of the benefits of a good skincare routine:
- Prevents acne: A well-formulated daily skincare routine can help control oil production, minimize clogged pores, and prevent breakouts.
- Minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles: A consistent skincare routine can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.
- Promotes hydration: Hydrated skin looks healthy and plump, and a good skincare routine ensures that the skin stays well-hydrated.
- Helps maintain even skin tone: A skincare routine that incorporates exfoliants and brightening agents can help diminish the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots, resulting in a more even skin tone.
- Slows down the aging process: Regular use of anti-aging skincare products can slow down the aging process and promote youthful-looking skin.
Remember, your acne skincare routine does not have to be complex. In fact, it is better to keep it simple. Even if you have sensitive, acne-prone skin, creating a skincare routine is not entirely different. However, the choice of products will depend on the level of sensitivity of your skin.
Maintaining a healthy skincare routine involves only three simple steps, with slight variations between morning and night-time routines and the specific products used:
Cleanse: Twice a day, you should clean your face gently using a cleanser that caters to your skin type, while avoiding abrasive scrubs. After cleansing, gently pat your face dry with a soft cloth. While looking for a cleanser, prioritize ones labelled as gentle and hydrating, and avoid pore-clogging ingredients which may aggravate your skin. You can check whether the products of your cleanser are pore-clogging here.
Moisturize: Apply a nourishing moisturizer suitable for your skin type in the morning and at night. In the morning, after cleansing your face, apply moisturizer before putting on sunscreen. Moisturizer should be the last product applied at night.
Protect: To safeguard your skin during the daytime, make sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 or higher every morning. Apply it carefully a quarter-hour prior to stepping out and do not forget to reapply every two hours. To ensure proper coverage, use the two-finger rule when applying sunscreen, which involves using two fingers to apply enough sunscreen to your skin.
Treat: To specifically address your skin needs, you might incorporate a topical gel, lotion, or cream with active ingredients into your night-time routine. As directed, apply a thin layer of your treatment cream to your face and neck. Bear in mind that simplicity is key, as using too many products may not be beneficial. Products like toners and serums are optional but can also be incorporated into your skincare routine.
It is important to keep in mind that everyone’s skin reacts differently, meaning that what works well for one person may not yield the same results for you. The beauty of skincare is that it is unique to each individual and requires consistency and patience to determine what works best for you. Therefore, do not give up after just a few tries but stick to your routine and embrace the journey towards better skin. And if you are looking for healthy aging tips and support along the way, be sure to check out our HSN Collagen supplements which help to bring out the best in your skin. Â
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