No.1 Acne Mistake
Not reading labels on acne products carefully
Reading the fine print on acne products is essential, particularly if you have oily, blemish-prone skin or suffer from rosacea or topical allergies. It's vital to look for hidden sources - like tea-tree oil and nut oils - that are considered natural but that may still clog your pores. Instead, look for moisturizers, sunscreens and foundations that are clearly marked "oil-free" or "noncomedogenic. If you're unsure about your skin type and/or the products you should be using, visit a dermatologist.
No. 2 Acne Mistake
Trying to scrub spots away
Acne is not a hygiene problem; it's a hormonal issue. Excessively cleaning your face won't get rid of acne. Instead of attempting to scrub your pimple-prone skin into submission, wash it gently with a foaming face wash that's designed to lift off dirt without irritating skin. See How To Keep A Clean Face for more. If you do feel compelled to enlist a scrub, use it no more than once a week, choosing a product that has even-sized, round beads, not rough particles.
No. 3 Acne Mistake
Not Using enough sunscreen
The big mistake people make is trusting the sunscreen label that reads 'all day protection,' sunscreen needs to be reapplied every few hours, you're kidding yourself if you think you can put it on once and forget about it for the rest of the day. Regular sunscreen use is even more important if you are treating your face with Retin-A or alpha- or beta-hydroxy acids, or getting peels or microdermabrasion - all of which can leave skin more sensitive and prone to the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. Use more sun screen - it's as simple as that!
No. 4 Acne Mistake
Falling for the 'miracle acne cure'
Green tea, licorice extract, betahydroxy acids - for every new product, you'll find someone for whom it's the miracle that finally fixed their every skin flaw. That doesn't necessarily mean it will have the same effect on you. People always want to try the newest thing because they automatically assume it will be better than what they are already using. Observe your skin's sensitivity and use a bit of common sense in your approach to treating acne. Don't rush it!
No. 5 Acne Mistake
Ignoring body acne
The skin is a barrier designed to keep out bacteria, when skin gets excessively dry and itchy, scratching can cause infection. The best defense is adequate moisture. Fresh out of the shower every day, apply a layer of moisturizer on already moist skin skin to help seal in water.
See acne do's and don'ts for more.
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