Every day a new skin care routine for acne drops and like the others, it promises to clear all the zits and scars in 7 days. You believe it (as you always do) and religiously follow all the routines only to end up disappointed.

Acne-prone skin can be a challenge to manage as it requires the right set of products and skin regimen to ensure you maintain a flawless complexion after every breakout. This article highlights essential steps, based on professional insights, that will effectively reduce breakouts and manage acne scars.

What is Acne Prone Skin? 

Without diverting into boring technicalities, acne-prone skin refers to a skin type that experiences multiple acne breakouts. This skin type cannot be compared to one that experiences a pimple sometimes, it refers experiences frequent occurrence of acne, inflammation, and hyperpigmentation.

Before your skin is said to be acne-prone, it must have long-term and chronic acne breakouts that last for months and require intense treatment to manage. This can affect not just the face, but arms, chest, back, arms, neck, and even shoulders. Anybody can have acne-prone skin, despite public opinions that believe only teenagers suffer from it. 

According to statistics, 80% of teenagers tend to suffer from acne breakouts and 54% of adult women have acne-prone skin. Since it's not something you only experience during your teenage years, it can be a source of frustration to adults who have to deal with it.

What Causes Acne? 

Right behind "What is acne prone skin," another million-dollar question we get asked daily is "What causes acne?" There are a lot of things that can cause acne breakouts and most times your breakouts can be a combination of one or more of these factors. 

Diet and cleanliness are two common causes of acne and a change can yield positive results. Concerning diet, sugar foods and fizzy drinks cause a spike in the body's insulin level which triggers inflammation and increases sebum production. Similarly, unhygienic skin lifestyles such as reusing dirty towels, sharing makeup brushes, and sleeping in your makeup can worsen acne breakouts. 

However, some contributing factors beyond our control can also trigger and worsen acne. One of these many factors are hormones. Sudden acne breakouts, particularly in women have been linked to a shift in hormonal balance. This shift is one of the main reasons people experience major acne breakouts during their teenage years and before their period. 

Certain environmental conditions contribute to acne. People who live near or in heavily polluted areas have an increased chance of experiencing acne breakouts as the skin is exposed to dust and dirt. This can block your skin pores and promote bacteria growth. Also, some people are genetically predisposed to having acne, regardless of other factors.  

An Effective Skin Care Routine for Acne 

Acne is one of the worst nightmares for anybody looking to achieve flawless skin. Moreover, these annoying dots pop out right before an important occasion. As much of a bother acne can be, having a skincare routine can help you heal better. Learn more about the right skin routine to keep your acne-prone skin clear and healthy.

Choose the face wash for acne prone skin 

A face wash is an essential skin product that removes dirt and dead skin cells that cause acne. Choosing the right face wash for acne-prone skin is one step to clearing your breakouts, but how do you accomplish this?

The first step is to study the ingredients. While you do so, check for harsh chemicals like parabens, sulfate, fragrance, and alcohol that can strip your natural oils and worsen acne. Instead look for any of the following chemicals: salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and benzoyl peroxide as they help manage acne. 

These ingredients penetrate the pores to unclog them, slowing down bacteria growth and the formation of new pimples. When you get your desired cleanser, make sure you wash your face with clean hands and at least 30 to 60 seconds before rinsing. We do not advise you to leave your cleanser on your face for a longer time to prevent dryness that can worsen your breakouts. Wash your face two times a day — in the morning and at night before sleeping for increased effectiveness.

Use toner for acne prone skin 

Likewise, follow up with a toner for acne prone skin to remove any remaining oil, dead cells, and makeup that escaped cleansing. Toners come in different formulations and can be liquid, gel, or even spray. Before using emusre they contain the necessary active ingredients to enjoy the full benefits. 

Apply a medication for acne 

A medication for acne or spot treatment works by reducing oil production to stop bacterial growth. However, they need time to work as it may take 2 to 8 weeks before you see changes. These medications can be applied topically or taken orally or even be a combination of both.

Azelaic acid is a common acne medication that has yielded positive results. It is a natural acid with strong antibacterial properties and it is produced by the fungus yeast. It treats acne and reduces the discoloration that comes with it; however, it can be dangerous to pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Retinoids and retinoid-like medications are also popular in treating acne. They come in creams, lotions, and gels and should be applied sparingly, usually at night. Unlike azelaic acid which should be applied twice a day, retinoids should be applied two to three times a week. 

Use a moisturizer for acne prone skin 

Your skin routine is not complete with a moisturizer. Acne-prone skin needs to moisturize their face, contrary to public opinion. Use an oil-free moisturizer for acne prone skin, especially if you are using a topical acne medication. Look for a non-acnegenic, water-based moisturizer that contains the right active ingredients as they do not cause breakouts or acne. 

Apply sunscreen for acne prone skin

Sunscreen is essential for every skin, be it acne-prone or not. It protects the skin against harmful UV radiations that worsen hyperpigmentation, sunburn, and cancer. We recommend a noncomedogenic, oil-free, hydrating sunscreen for acne prone skin that has an SPF of 30 or more for optimal protection.