Do you know what’s worse than your face breaking out? Not knowing why you are breaking out all of a sudden. Like, talk about cosmic punishments! One day, you are proudly flaunting your clear skin, and the next day, boom Acne! We’ve all been through that and it’s quite frustrating, to say the least. Thankfully there are various solutions that can help you get rid of these pesky breakouts and prevent them from occurring again. However, before trying any remedy, it is wise to find out what caused sudden face breakouts. Board-certified dermatologists explain that the prevalence of acne among individuals could be due to different reasons.
What is a breakout?
Hair follicles are the tiny holes on the outer surface (epidermis) of your skin. Hair begins to grow at the base of hair follicles. Sebaceous glands, small oil-producing glands also attached to hair follicles. A breakout appears on your face when the opening of hair follicles becomes clogged with dead cells, grime, and bacterial infection.
It has been observed that many people confuse skin purging with breaking out. Skin purging refers to experiencing the temporary acne flare up after introducing the new products into your skin care routine.
Major causes
- Sleep deprivation
- Lack of hydration
- Stress
- Dirty pillowcase
- Unsuitable products
1. Sleep deprivation
Plenty of beauty sleep is the secret behind waking up every morning with healthy and clear skin. Sleep is like food for your skin and if you have a messy sleep cycle then you are probably depriving your skin of nourishment. Numerous research studies have unfolded that poor quality sleep is one of the major acne triggers. Sleeplessness is found to elevate the sebum levels in the skin and create hormonal disturbances in the body. Your skin’s health becomes extremely imbalanced, which leads to the appearance of sudden breakouts.
2. Lack of hydration
Dehydration is one of the major causes behind sudden breakouts and comes with odd timings too. Dehydration makes your skin extremely dry, which causes your skin to produce excessive oil. This further clogs your skin pores and increases the chances of acne. Skin care experts emphasize hydrating yourself both externally and internally. Along with chugging down at least 7 to 8 glasses of water each day, it is important to nourish your skin with a good moisturizer.
3. Stress
The sudden appearance of breakouts can be a sign of emotional distress. A research study published in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology has demonstrated that stress severity is strongly correlated with acne exacerbation. Stress can flare up and trigger your existing acne. You might not realize how stressed you are until sudden breakouts make an appearance on your face. Hence, always remember that in addition to following a skincare regimen religiously; it is also important to take care of your mental and emotional wellbeing. Being happy and stress-free can make a huge difference not just to your skin but the overall quality of life.
4. Dirty Pillowcases
Most of us have a pretty intimate relationship with our pillows. Not only do we sleep on it, but it is also your BFF and “a shoulder to cry on” when we feel extremely low. You might not realize this but those thin sheets have seen the best and worst of your time since you spend one-third of your life snuggled in them. Even though your pillowcase may appear clean at first glance, there are still tiny yet harmful germs and bacteria deposited on it. It is important to realize the need for using a fresh germ-free pillowcase. If you use the same pillowcase again and again, then you are providing a favorable atmosphere for bacterial growth which might later give you skin infection. Hence, cleaning your bed linens, particularly the pillowcases is an important tip to consider to prevent skin breakouts in humid weather.
5. Unsuitable products
Are you blaming skincare products for bestowing your friends with clear skin, while you sulk with frequent breakouts? If yes, then the need is to understand that it highly depends on what your skin type is. What suits others skin might not do well for your skin. Hence, it is essential to determine your skin type and its concerns, before investing in skincare products that would work wonders for you.
Tips to consider
- Choose the right cleanser
- Try topical acne treatment products
- Wear sun protection
- Apply less makeup
- Eat balanced meals
1. Choose the right cleanser
It is imperative to understand that many acne face wash contain harsh surfactants that strip away natural skin oils. In addition, your acne-prone skin is sensitive and using harsh ingredients can trigger skin irritations and allergies. While dealing with acne, you should opt for a face wash that helps to prevent acne formation while protecting skin barrier. U.S.-based dermatologist, Dr. St Surin-Lord suggests using non-comedogenic products which do not clog pores for acne-prone skin.
2. Try topical acne treatment products
Topical acne agents such as salicylic acid, Boswellia serrata resin Extract and Rice Bran Extract have been found quite effective in treating active acne. A research study published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology Advocate has demonstrated that salicylic acid has a significant impact in improving acne conditions. Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble BHA (beta hydroxy acid) that penetrates into the deeper layers of skin to keep your pores clean. When your pores are clean, you are less likely to get whiteheads, blackheads, and acne.
3. Sun protection
According to dermatologists, it is crucial to wear sunscreen if your skin is acne-prone. Intense UV rays not only worsen the existing acne but also make your skin prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Wearing a suitable broad spectrum sunscreen is a great preventive measure to shield your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
4. Less makeup
All skin types can be prone to acne, especially if you’re applying heavy makeup with products that are clogging skin pores. Applying heavy makeup especially for long hours doesn’t let your skin breathe; which eventually results in breakouts. Opt for non-comedogenic products to save your skin from breaking out, while limiting heavy makeup application.
5. Balanced meals
Research studies show that food items that have a high glycemic index can trigger acne. Whereas, a diet enriched with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber is considered good to reduce skin inflammation and prevent the possibility of frequent breakouts.
When it comes to acne treatment, early is better than late. To end the vicious cycle of pimples, it is important to learn the main causes and the right acne treatment options. Acne that stays for months tends to damage the inner layers of skin. This further results in permanent rough skin texture and acne scars. Hence, addressing the main causes and imbibing these tips and tricks can help you to eliminate those little spots and achieve clearer skin.
P.S.
People with acne-prone skin feel the urge to cleanse their face multiple times a day. Skin care experts explain that over-cleansing your face can trigger acne infection and disturb your skin's natural oil balance. Washing your face two times a day is considered enough to keep your skin clean and bacteria-free.
