Got Oily or Acne-Prone Skin? Be Sure to Avoid These Things

Daily face washing and the use of acne medication may not always be enough to improve oily or acne-prone skin. Sometimes, your habits can be the culprit as to why you still see new breakouts and battle with a shiny and greasy face, even if you faithfully treat your blemishes.  

Here are some of the things you need to avoid if you are prone to developing blemishes.

Not cleaning makeup tools

When you don’t clean your makeup brushes and applicators, you allow dirt and bacteria to accumulate and hang around them. This can then clog your pores and trigger breakouts, as well as make other skin conditions worse. The dirt in the brushes can also stiffen the bristles and make the product application spotty or cakey. 

Make it a point to clean your brushes once a week using shampoo or mild cleanser. Regular cleansing can also help extend the life of your brushes and allow better makeup application and blending. You can also use a cleanser specifically made for brushes or even dishwashing liquid.  

Sharing makeup and brushes

Allowing others to use your makeup and applicators also means allowing oil, dirt, and dead skin cells of other people to transfer on your makeup, tools, and skin. This can lead to clogged pores and contribute in breakouts. The same is also true for using makeup testers, which can harbor many bacteria. 

Be sure that you’re the only one using your cosmetic products and makeup applicators. This applies even if the person you’re sharing your makeup with doesn’t have acne or any other skin problems. Moreover, you should refrain from borrowing tools or makeup from other people. 

Over washing/ drying your face

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, resist the temptation to over wash your face or apply astringent frequently. Doing so can further irritate the skin and result in more breakouts. Over drying your face can also cause your body to overcompensate by producing more oils, triggering breakouts. 

It is usually enough to wash your face twice a day (morning and night). Cleansing is also recommended after a sweat session. Be sure to avoid scrubbing your face, as this can irritate the skin and cause acne flare-ups. Use light pressure and gentle circular motions when applying the face cleanser.   

Not washing or replacing pillowcases

The daily use of pillowcases can lead to the accumulation of dirt, oil, sweat, and makeup. Rubbing your face all over your unwashed pillowcase every night can lead to blackheads and new breakouts to develop overnight. You should also note that dirty sheets and pillowcases could harbor dust mites and bed bugs. 

Make sure that your pillowcases are always clean and fresh, especially if you regularly wear makeup. It is better to use a fragrance-free detergent when washing them and skip fabric softeners. It is ideal to wash your pillowcases once a week or every three days if you have oily acne-prone skin. 

Being in constant stress (and not managing it)

Too much stress can cause your skin to act out, resulting in more oiliness and breakouts. Excess cortisol can cause the sebaceous glands to produce more oil, which can clog your pores and trigger more acne. Being in constant stress can also exacerbate existing skin conditions like eczema and rosacea. 

Here are a few ways to destress:

• Get enough sleep. 
• Engage in any type of exercise or physical activity. 
• Treat yourself with a facial or massage.
• Take breaks (especially if you have a sedentary job)
• Try relaxation techniques or breathing exercises.
• Try a new hobby
• Get support. 

Forgetting to apply sunscreen

Prolonged and unprotected sun exposure can further inflame your acne and irritate your skin. Doing so can also increase your likelihood of getting sunburn and dark spots. It is also not true that the sun can cure or dry out your pimples. What it actually does is increase melanin production and thickens the epidermis. 

This is why you should always apply the right face sunscreen whenever going out. One good recommendation is Clear Defense SPF 45 with Broad-Spectrum. This lightweight sunscreen provides the highest possible level of protection while restoring the skin’s youthfulness. It also features a high level of Niacinamide, which helps promote clear complexion.

For more acne-prone skin care tips and product recommendations, contact Cutis Laser Clinics in Singapore today. You can also schedule a consultation with our aesthetic doctors to learn more about the aesthetic treatments that can help with your breakouts or other skin problems.