Skin with acne requires a special type of attention, whether your acne is caused by hormones, diet, genetics, makeup (or wearing a mask!) acne can be a stubborn skin concern. Cleansing is an essential step to help reduce acne, but it's not as simple as washing your face with a cleanser and some water. From scrubs to acids, and the double cleansing method; when it comes to acne, cleansing the skin is important.
PHOTO COURTESY HONEST BEAUTY
Skip Scrubs
Scrubs which exfoliate and remove dead skin cells can seem like a good thing for those with acne and blemish prone skin, but they can often do more harm than good. If you have prominent acne on your skin, it’s best to avoid cleansers containing scrub ingredients (such as beads, coffee granules or other coarse ingredients).These ingredients can irritate & disturb acne, causing bacteria to spread over the skin and become pushed deep into the pores. Instead, opt for a chemical based exfoliant containing enzymes and acids such as AHA (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHA (beta hydroxy acids).
PHOTO: EVANGELINE SARNEY
Incorporate Acids
Saliyicic acid a BHA (beta hydroxy acids) glycolic acid an AHA (alpha hydroxy acids) and other ingredients in this acid category work to exfoliate skin and lift away dead skin cells. Salicylic acid is an intense treatment which dissolves oils and works to deeply clean pores, making it perfect for those with acne. Other ingredients providing similar benefits include witch-hazel, and tea-tree oil, both of which have anti-bacterial properties. Low concentration AHA’s & BHA’s are a gentler alternative which are best suited for acne-prone skin and keeping acne at bay. Choosing a cleanser which incorporates these ingredients can assist in clearing up acne and preventing future breakouts.
Avoid Harsh and Drying Cleansers
Many foaming and cleansing gels can be fantastic for oily, congested, and acne-prone skin, but be sure to inspect the ingredient lists. Some cleansers geared towards oilier skin types can be loaded with harsh chemicals and surfactants which strip skin of natural oils. When a cleanser strips skin of its natural oils, it often results in a "over drive" process occuring. When this happens, the skin over produces oil to compensate for any natural oils which have been stripped away (thus creating more acne!) Instead try a gentle cleansing gel, and avoid soap-based cleansers, notably those with a high concentration of sulfates.
PHOTO: EVANGELINE SARNEY
Double Cleanse
Double cleansing is one of the best things you can do for your skin, regardless of your skin type or condition. If you regularly wear makeup it’s incredibly beneficial to first cleanse with a cleansing oil, balm, or gel. The first cleanse in your skin care routine will break up heavy makeup. If you have oily and congested skin don’t be afraid of cleansing oils. The simple rule of science (oil is attracted to oil) can actually regulate oil production, helping to reduce excess oil and acne.
PHOTO: EVANGELINE SARNEY
Finish with a Micellar Water
For the second step in your cleansing routine, a micellar water is undoubtedly one of the best products you can use. With specialized technology, micellar waters contain special micelles which become like a “magnet” for makeup, oils, and dirt. Even after you’ve already cleansed your skin, you are likely to be surprised by the amount of left-over makeup a micellar water can remove from the skin. It’s important to note you must use a cotton fibre to apply and cleanse with micellar water for the best results. Micellar water also has the added benefit of toning the skin and regulating the pH balance to ensure skin is at optimal health.
RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Purifying Gel (contains Salicylic Acid)
Caudalie VinoPure Purifying Gel Cleanser (contains Salicylic Acid)
Murad Blemish Control Clarifying Cleanser (contains Salicylic Acid)
Weleda Blemished Skin Purifying Gel Cleanser (contains Willow Bark)
Tata Harper Nourishing Oil Cleanser
Boscia MakeUp BreakUp Cool Cleansing Oil
Bioderma Sebium h2o Purifying Cleansing Micelle Solution Micellar Water
