You're not to blame for your blemishes - but you're also not a helpless victim. You can help your body win the fight against acne by giving it what it needs to stay strong and healthy. Just follow these simple daily rules, and you may find your good health reflected on your face - for everyone to see.
Healthy Eating helps Fight Blemishes
While diet doesn't cause acne, a balanced diet can help give your body the tools it needs to fight bumps and blemishes. Don't skip breakfast - it jump-starts your metabolism to give you energy throughout the day. In general, choose fresh fruit over french fries, and balance your meals with foods from all four groups. You should also drink at least eight glasses of water every day - more if you exercise.
Daily Cleansing Routine
A cleansing routine is essential for maintaining a clear complexion. Gently wash your face twice a day to remove excess oil, bacteria and dead skin cells. But remember, since acne isn't caused by dirt, overwashing won't help - it's more likely to dry out your skin, causing it to produce even more oil. So limit yourself to two daily cleansings…and once you've found a routine that works, stick with it!
Protect Skin with Sunscreen
While it's true that small amounts of sun exposure may initially improve acne, don't be fooled; the benefit is temporary. Consistent sunbathing will dry your skin, causing it to produce more oil and slough old cells more frequently. Combine the extra oil and extra dead cells, and you create the ideal environment for blemishes. So it's important to wear sunscreen (at least SPF 15) every day, even if it's cloudy.
Rest
A good night's sleep (7-8 hours) can do wonders for your complexion. How? A healthy, well-rested body has the resources to build a strong immune system. While a robust immune system won't prevent acne altogether, it can help fight infection so your lesions clear up more quickly.
Exercise
Movement improves circulation and helps you relax, reduce stress and increase your energy level. Your skin benefits from an increase in blood flow achieved by a higher heart rate and oxygen level in the bloodstream. If you are prone to body acne, wear loose-fitting cotton clothing when exercising.
Remove Make-up to Prevent Breakouts
All makeup, even those advertised as oil-free and non-comedogenic, can clog pores. It's best to wear as little makeup as possible, and make sure to remove all makeup before you exercise, or before you go to sleep.
Relax
When you become tense, your adrenal glands flood your bloodstream with the hormone cortisol, triggering the sweat glands in your face to produce more oil. So it's important to take time out of every day to relax - read a book, take a bath, practice yoga, or do whatever makes you feel happy and calm. It's an important step towards overall good health…and in turn, the health of your skin.
