Our skin can be quite unpredictable at times, and breakouts seem to happen at the most inconvenient moments. However, it's important to understand that there are numerous reasons why your skin may act up. It's crucial to give your skin some special attention, especially during those hectic days when you may neglect it. Don't let blemishes ruin your day - prioritise your skincare routine and give your skin the love it deserves.
11 easy-to-miss reasons behind skin breakouts
Daily habits can significantly impact your skin and may contribute to breakouts. Here are 11 reasons why certain habits can lead to skin breakouts:
- Not removing makeup properly: Leaving makeup on overnight can clog pores, leading to acne breakouts and skin irritation.
- Overwashing or harsh cleansing: Overwashing the face or using harsh cleansers can strip the skin's natural oils, leading to dryness and potential rebound oil production, causing breakouts.
- Not washing hands before touching the face: Touching the face with dirty hands can transfer bacteria, oil, and dirt to the skin, leading to breakouts.
- Using dirty makeup brushes: Dirty makeup brushes can harbour bacteria, which can then be transferred to the skin, causing breakouts and irritation.
- Skipping sunscreen: Not wearing sunscreen daily can lead to sun damage, increased inflammation, and breakouts, especially in acne-prone individuals.
- Picking or popping pimples: Picking at pimples can cause further inflammation and spread bacteria, leading to more breakouts and potential scarring.
- Using comedogenic products: Using skincare or makeup products with comedogenic ingredients, like coconut oil, cocoa butter, shea butter, or lanolin, can clog pores and exacerbate acne.
- Using heavy or occlusive skincare: Heavy creams or occlusive products can trap sweat and oil, potentially leading to pore congestion and breakouts.
- Not changing pillowcases regularly: Dirty pillowcases can accumulate oil, sweat, and bacteria, which can transfer to the skin and are the most occurring cause of breakouts.
- Over-exposure of hair products on the face: Hair products containing oils or silicones can clog pores and lead to acne along the hairline and forehead.
- High-stress levels: Chronic stress can trigger hormonal imbalances that may contribute to increased oil production and breakouts.
Skincare steps that are a guide towards achieving healthy skin
1. Cleanse:
Start by cleansing your face twice a day (morning and evening) to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. Choose a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type, whether it's foaming, gel-based, cream-based, or oil-based.
Tira Recommends: The Plum Salicylic Acid Foaming Face Wash with Fruit AHAs contains salicylic acid, which is a BHA known for its acne-fighting properties. Salicylic acid can exfoliate the skin, remove dead cells, and unclog pores, making it beneficial for acne-prone skin. An inclusion of Fruit AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) can provide additional gentle exfoliation, leading to smoother and brighter skin.
2. Exfoliate:
Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote cell turnover. Depending on your skin type, exfoliate 1 to 3 times a week using a physical scrub or chemical exfoliant (AHA or BHA). Avoid over-exfoliating, as it can irritate the skin.
3. Tone:
Apply a toner after cleansing to balance the skin's pH level and prepare it for better absorption of the following skincare products. Toners can also provide additional benefits, such as hydration or soothing effects.
Tira Recommends: COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner contains a combination of AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid), which are chemical exfoliants. AHA helps to exfoliate the skin's surface, promoting cell turnover and improving skin texture, while BHA can penetrate deeper into the pores, helping to unclog them and reduce acne. The toner also assists in brightening the complexion and improving skin tone.
4. Treat (serums, essences, or spot treatments):
Apply any treatment products like serums or spot treatments that target specific skin concerns, such as acne, hyperpigmentation, or fine lines.
Tira Recommends: If you are looking for a serum with anti-ageing properties then the Minimalist 0.3% Retinol Face Serum is a derivative of Vitamin A and is known just for that. It can help stimulate collagen production, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote skin renewal. However, retinol can be potent and may cause sensitivity, so, it's essential to start with a low concentration, like 0.3% and gradually increase its usage.
Pilgrim Salicylic & Glycolic Acid Anti Acne Serum is a great option to help target acne and clogged pores. The combination of these ingredients is effective in combating acne and promoting skin renewal.
5. Moisturise:
Hydrate your skin with a suitable moisturiser that matches your skin type. Moisturisers help lock in moisture and keep the skin soft and supple. For daytime, consider using a lightweight moisturiser with added SPF for sun protection.
You can go with Lisen Moving Forward Light Weight Spot Corrector Gel Face Moisturizer. This moisturiser is designed as a spot treatment gel, specifically for addressing blemishes and spots. It contains ingredients, like soothing agents, antioxidants, or spot-reducing agents to help fade scars and promote a more even skin tone.
6. Eye cream:
If you have specific concerns like dark circles or fine lines around the eyes, use an eye cream formulated for your troubles. Apply it gently around the eye area using your ring finger.
7. Sunscreen:
Sunscreen is crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every morning, even on cloudy days.
8. Nighttime skincare:
In the evening, consider using a richer moisturiser or night cream to help your skin recover and repair while you sleep.
9. Hydrating masks (optional):
Incorporate hydrating masks once or twice a week to boost hydration and nourishment.
10. Sleep and hydration:
Get enough sleep, stay hydrated, and maintain a balanced diet to support overall skin health