You know that acne is a common concern among people of all ages and genders. You also know that the right face wash is the crucial cornerstone for any anti-acne routine that sweeps away bacteria, exfoliates and rejuvenates the skin. But how do you find the right one for your skin’s need without triggering any further breakouts? We put this question to the experts and here’s what we learnt.
What you need to know about acne-prone skin
No spoilers here. As the name suggests, people with acne-prone skin tend to experience breakouts more frequently and easily than others. “It is generally characterised as oily or combination skin, with the T-zone being particularly oily. This skin type often exhibits characteristics such as excess oil, open pores and blackheads,” shares noted dermatologist Dr Jamuna Pai.
So, what are the catalysts to know about?
According to Dr Pai, hormonal fluctuations, excessive sebum production, lifestyle factors and certain medical conditions can cause acne. “Women are more likely to experience hormonal acne due to menstrual cycle, pregnancy, postpartum conditions like PCOS and peri/post-menopausal changes. Men, on the other hand, experience acne mostly during adolescence due to higher androgen levels but can also suffer from adult acne due to lifestyle factors and stress,” she tells us.
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Dos and don’ts for taking care of acne-prone skin
Effective management of this skin type involves a combination of proper skincare, appropriate treatments, lifestyle modifications and, in some cases, professional intervention. Ultimately, understanding the underlying causes can help tailor your approach and promote clearer and healthier skin. Ahead, Dr Madhuri Agarwal, founder of Yavana Aesthetics Clinic, shares her best advice for dealing with acne-prone skin.
Dos:
● Follow a simple skincare routine with a foaming cleanser, gel-based moisturiser and broad-spectrum sunscreen.
● Use a single anti-acne active ingredient consistently, instead of getting frustrated and trying something different every day.
● Always apply sunscreen while stepping out to minimise any skin reactivity.
Don’ts:
● Avoid washing your face multiple times a day.
● Don’t pick or prod active acne as it will lead to more breakouts and scarring.
● Don’t self-treat acne by using home remedies or multiple active ingredients.
How to find the right face wash for acne-prone skin
When shopping for anti-acne skincare products, Dr Agarwal recommends keeping an eye out for salicylic acid. “Avoid drying the skin or using an extremely high concentration of acids. Likewise, products with ingredients such as coconut oil, mineral oils and alcohol should be avoided,” she says. If you are looking to build your anti-acne arsenal, a clean base is your first step to getting there—and these dermat-approved face washes will help get the job done.
Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser
Low on lather, high on oil control: this facial cleanser works on vacuuming away dirt, debris, oils and any remnants of makeup without making acne-prone skin feel dry or tight.
Sebamed Clear Face Cleansing Foam
This cleansing foam gently rinses away impurities from the skin. The absence of the three Ps—parabens, paraffins, phthalates—also makes it a welcome sight for sensitive skin.
Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid + LHA Cleanser Reduces Sebum & Acne
Reduced sebum without any dryness: if that sounds like a deal you’d want in on, make note of this exfoliating cleanser. Salicylic acid works hard under the hood to reduce oiliness by getting rid of dirt, debris and dead skin cell buildup.
Plum 1% Encapsulated Salicylic Acid AHA Foaming Face Wash
Clogged pores? We don’t know her—especially not when this foaming face wash employs fruit-derived AHAs to smoothen skin texture and brighten up complexion.
Foxtale Clear Picture Acne Control Cleanser For Oily And Acne Prone Skin Face Wash
The road to acne-free skin gets a little easier when you have the right oil-control face wash in your arsenal—which is where this duet of salicylic acid and niacinamide steps in to keep acne-causing bacteria at bay.
Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Face Wash
The holy trinity of neem, aloe vera and lemon unite in this oil-free formula to kill bacteria, hydrate and rejuvenate the skin. The end result? Reduced breakouts and nourished skin that feels non-greasy.
Brillare Oil Away Face Wash for Oily Acne Prone Skin
Cleanse, exfoliate and unclog pores all in one go with this calming cleanser that focuses its energies on sweeping away excess oil and other impurities from the surface of acne-prone skin.
