Habits for preventing acne

Feb 16, 2022

Keep your hands off your face. Avoid touching your face or propping your cheek or chin on your hands. Not only can you spread bacteria, you can also irritate the already inflamed facial skin. Never pick or pop pimples with your fingers, as it can lead to infection and scarring.

Stay out of the sun. The sun's ultraviolet rays can increase inflammation and redness, and can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark discoloration). Some acne medications may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.

Feed your skin. Most experts agree that certain foods, like chocolate, don't cause pimples. Still, it makes sense to avoid greasy food and junk food and add more fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains to your diet. Dairy products and foods high in processed sugar may trigger acne. Avoid these.

Exercise daily. Regular exercise is good for your whole body, including your skin. When you exercise, avoid wearing clothing or using exercise equipment that rubs your skin and may cause irritation. Shower or bathe right after exercise.

Rub sweat from your skin during a workout.

Using a towel to roughly rub away sweat can irritate your skin, which can cause breakouts. When working out, use a clean towel to gently pat sweat from your skin.

Chill! Some studies link stress with the severity of pimples or acne. Ask yourself what's making you feel stressed. Then look for solutions.