[imagesource: Shutterstock]

There are very few people who can honestly say that they haven’t had ‘skin issues’ at some point.

You know what I’m talking about – those days when pimples or breakouts just appear out of nowhere, usually before you have a date or an event that would be significantly improved if you didn’t have a giant red spot in the centre of your forehead.

The urge, when this happens, is to head straight to the mirror to squeeze, scratch, or cover the pimple in so much foundation that you’ll need to restock.

What you should be doing is proactively sorting out the problem before it happens, and the first step is knowing why and how you develop acne.

The following factors could affect your skin:

Genetics

If acne is prevalent in your family, it could be hereditary.

Hormones

Changes in hormonal activity can trigger a breakout. It can also result in the development of full-blown acne if not managed properly.

Cosmetics

Using poor quality makeup which contains irritants or comedogenic ingredients can do a real number on your skin. Too much makeup, or not removing it before you head to bed can clog your pores.

Lifestyle

Stress can also be a huge factor, especially when coupled with poor lifestyle choices such as unhealthy sleeping patterns and an unhealthy diet.

If your skincare habits are erratic, it can lead to congestion and clogged pores. Aggressive scrubbing, picking, scratching, or the use of harsh products won’t do you any favours, either.

Now that you know what causes acne, let’s get some tips on how to deal with it.

According to the experts at Skin Renewal, here’s what you can do to avoid pimples, breakouts, and blackheads:

• Start with a good cleansing routine. Wash your face twice daily to remove excess oil, dead skin cells and dirt.
• Avoid touching, scratching, or picking at your face.
• Sanitise or wash any makeup brushes or sponges regularly. These can harbour germs and bacteria which get transferred to the skin.
• Use quality skincare that focuses on balancing and controlling the health of your skin.

If you’re not sure what to keep in your skincare arsenal, here’s a basic list:

• A gentle cleanser (preferably soap-free)
• A gentle, barrier repairing moisturiser to hydrate the skin
• An SPF to prevent the formation of dark marks or PIH on the skin
• Use an active nighttime product to exfoliate and renew the skin, preventing congestion and the build-up of dead skin cells. Products containing Vitamin A, AHAs, Salicylic Acid and PHAs are ideal for this.

Also, remember that everyone’s skin is different. If you find that you’re experiencing ongoing breakouts, sensitivity, and inflammation, you can book a visit with one the doctors at Skin Renewal.

They’ll do an in-depth consultation to find the perfect treatment for you.