Submit your skincare questions to Dr. Agnes, CEO of Herborium and natural medicine expert
Acne-prone skin is usually a victim of too much sebum (skin oil) being produced by your sebaceous glands. It clogs your pores, and together with dirt, dead skin cells and of course bacteria will produce inflammation that manifests itself as pimples, comedones or cysts. Even the best makeup staying on your face overnight will add to this inflammation. Wash it out religiously each night.
When you exercise, you sweat... and sweat is a mixture of water and your skin oils. Adding makeup to this mix will clog your pores more and cause breakouts and enlarged pores, possibly perpetuating the acne cycle.
Washing acne-prone skin is certainly necessary, but high temperatures strip skin of its natural oils, potentially causing not only dryness and irritation but actually forcing the skin to overcompensate and produce more oil instead of less. Use warm water, not hot water, and a mild cleanser. If you don't want to give up hot showers, cleanse at least your face first with lukewarm water (and keep it out of the shower stream).
Your hands are your main physical contact device, and they touch everything. When you transfer the dirt and bacteria from your hands to acne-affected body parts, this adds to the probability for serious inflammation.
In addition, your hands are made to caress, NOT to pop or squeeze or probe. DO NOT do it to your pimples. This action may lead to skin tissue damage and in consequence, acne scars
Different seasons require a different skincare routine to make the skin comfortable (e.g. fall and winter require more moisturizing).
In addition, each product category has its own shelf life based on its ingredients and preservatives.
Sunscreen: It's usually effective for up to 3 years when stored correctly (high temperatures render it ineffective); check the expiration date on the bottle.
Retinoids and AHA's are effective for 3 months to a year.
Antioxidants like vitamin C last about 6 months once opened.
Look for the expiration date but also use your own calendar to judge when your products need refreshing.
And of course, adjust your acne treatment so you always get the one that is right for you.
With a Promise of Clear Skin, Dr. A