What Is The Best Skin Care Routine For Acne Prone Skin?

Do you find yourself always struggling to manage your painful pimples? Are you fed up of trying salon sessions and home remedies that prove futile in preventing breakouts? If you can relate to the above situations, it’s time for you to follow the right skin care routine for acne prone skin approved by leading dermatologists. Want to know more? Read on!

What Does Acne Mean?

Acne also acne vulgaris is a common skin complaint that causes breakouts, inflammation, pigmentation and even scars if left untreated. More than 50% of people suffer from acne, but there are certain factors or triggers which can initiate or worsen the condition.

How Does Acne Form?

Hair follicles in the skin contain sebaceous glands which produce natural oil, known as sebum. Hormonal fluctuations and other factors can cause excess sebum production, which along with the dirt and grime can clog the pores. Clogged pores are favourable habitats for bacteria to flourish and spread, thus initiating an inflammatory cascade. As a result, a pimple or acne forms, which may contain pus.

What Is An Acne Prone Skin?

While most people have acne during their teenage years, some people are likely to get breakouts even in their adult life. Excessive production of sebum due to accelerated sebaceous gland activities and pronounced hormonal fluxes can make your skin prone to pimples.

Must Read: How To Treat Acne Safely?

What Causes Acne Prone Skin?

Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, or due to medical conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and insulin resistance may trigger acne. The use of specific medications and cosmetics are other significant factors that make your skin acne-prone.

A genetic predisposition or ethnicity can also increase your chances of having acne-prone skin. Another factor that triggers breakouts is your climatic location- residing in a region that has a hot and humid climate causes increased sweating and a higher risk of acne.

Daily Skin Care Routine For Acne Prone Skin

Follow a proper cleansing, exfoliating, toning, and moisturising routine in sync with your skin type. Leading dermatologists recommend the best tips for managing acne-prone skin effectively:

• Choose The Right Cleanser – Use a non-comedogenic, non-irritant, and non-allergic product that effectively removes dirt and helps in deep cleansing the pores while preventing skin damage.
  The best face wash for pimple prone skin is a gel or foam-based cleanser. For people with dry skin, a cream-based cleanser is apt. Rinse your face twice a day to get rid of excess oil, grime, and pollutants. However, excessive washing can irritate the skin.
• Opt For Controlled Exfoliation – Dermatologists advise against the use of scrubs if you have acne-prone skin. However, your doctor may recommend a chemical peel treatment for a controlled chemical exfoliation to manage your acne effectively.
• Use An Apt Moisturiser – Moisturisers are an essential part of your daily skincare routine. The best moisturiser for acne-prone skin in India is one formulated especially for your skin type and one that is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, non-sensitising and fragrance-free.
• Apply Sunscreen – Dermatologists recommend the use of a non-comedogenic sunscreen with at least SPF 30 all year round. You should apply it at least half an hour before stepping out in the sun. It is advisable to reapply sunscreen every three hours.
• Avoid Using Face Packs – Despite the claims, face packs have adverse effects on the skin. Face masks can worsen acne by causing skin irritation and inflammation. So be sure to check with your dermatologist before using any skincare product. Avoid experimenting with any natural or home-based remedies as you do not know how an ingredient will affect your skin.
• Abstain From Popping The Pimples – Avoid scratching and picking the acne as it may aggravate the inflammation further and stimulate hyperpigmentation that can leave behind acne marks or spots.
• Refrain From Using Harsh Chemical-Based Cosmetic Supplies – Avoid applying over-the-counter skincare creams or gels, especially those containing topical steroids without consulting your dermatologist as they may cause serious side effects.
• Avoid Opting For Parlour Services – Salon treatments like facials and massages that claim to reduce pimples fail to address the underlying cause and skin type so they may end up worsening your skin condition.

Must Read: How To Get Rid Of Pimples In One Day?

Here Is An Informative Video How To Manage Acne Prone Skin

Skin Types And Acne Care Routine

Oily, dry, combination, normal or sensitive – your skincare routine must be appropriate for your skin type. What works well on dry skin may not be suitable for oily skin, especially if you have acne-prone skin. Here is how to alter your skincare routine for acne-prone skin based on your skin type –

• For Oily Skin – People with oily skin type have large pores and a shiny complexion. The best skincare products for oily acne-prone skin are non-comedogenic ones to keep pore-clogging at bay. Cleansing twice a day is recommended while using a light water-based or gel-based moisturiser is a must.
• Dry Skin – People with dry skin type complain of dull complexion and visible lines. You can prevent acne if you have this skin type by using a moisturising cleanser and a face cream that reduces the dryness.
• Normal Skin – Normal skin does not have any visible concerns but may be prone to acne. Hence, it can be tricky to follow a skincare routine. Use only non-comedogenic products and follow a proper cleansing, toning and moisturising regimen to boost your skin’s protective barrier.
• Combination Skin – Use products for acne-prone skin available in India that balance the natural oil production without drying or irritating the skin. Extra care may be needed to prevent blackheads from appearing on the T-zone.
• Sensitive Skin– Use dermatologist-recommended products only if you have sensitive skin type that is prone to breakouts. It is crucial to eliminate all kitchen ingredients from your daily skincare routine that can irritate your skin to keep it acne-free and healthy.

Must Read: How To Get Rid Of Blackheads?

Nighttime Skincare Routine For Clear Skin

Find the best night care routine for Indian skin types, which will keep your skin blemish-free, nourished and flawless. Dermatologists lay significant emphasis on following a night skincare routine to prevent breakouts. They advise following the below steps –

• Remove all makeup using non-comedogenic wipes.
• Wash your face with a gentle and non-comedogenic face wash.
• Use a moisturiser suitable for your skin type.
• Apply the topical anti-acne gel or cream as recommended by your dermatologist.

Now that you know all about skin care regimen for acne prone skin follow the above dos and don’ts to control your breakouts.

Please remember that if the above regimen does not help reduce acne, it is time to seek an advanced solution and consult an experienced dermatologist to get blemish-free skin!