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Acne isn't just a teenage problem, and it can be frustrating to find yourself in your 30s, still struggling with blemishes. You've tried everything, from harsh scrubs to miracle creams, but nothing seems to work. You may feel like you're doing everything right when it comes to your skincare routine, yet still wake up with a pesky pimple or two.
It's a common misconception that adult acne is solely caused by poor hygiene or diet, but the truth is that there are many underlying factors that can trigger breakouts in adults. It's important to understand that everyone's skin is different and that finding the right skincare regimen takes time and patience. Don't give up hope—with a little persistence, you can conquer adult acne and achieve the clear, glowing skin you deserve.
Ready to tackle adult acne head-on? Here are our top tips for preventing and managing breakouts.
1) Using the wrong products for acne-prone skin
One of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to treating acne and oily skin is using the wrong products. Many people with acne-prone skin use harsh products that strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. This can actually make acne and oily skin worse by triggering the skin to produce more oil to compensate for the loss of moisture.
To avoid this mistake, it is important to choose skincare products specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Look for products that are oil-free, non-comedogenic, and contain acne-fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Additionally, avoid harsh scrubs and opt for a gentle exfoliator to promote a healthy shedding cycle.
2) Not paying attention to skin cell turnover
Skin cell turnover is the process by which old skin cells are shed and replaced with new ones. This process is important for maintaining healthy skin and preventing acne. When skin cell turnover slows down, dead skin cells can accumulate on the surface of the skin, clogging pores and causing acne to occur.
To promote healthy skin cell turnover, use products that contain ingredients such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid, which help to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells. Additionally, avoid using products that contain harsh ingredients that can strip the skin of its natural oils and disrupt the skin's natural barrier. These can make your acne worse.
3) Not sleeping on a silk pillowcase
Believe it or not, your pillowcase can have a significant impact on the health of your skin. Cotton pillowcases can absorb the natural oils from your skin, leading to excess oil production and clogged pores. This can trigger acne breakouts and even exacerbate current acne outbreaks.
A silk pillowcase, on the other hand, is a game-changer for acne-prone skin. Silk is naturally hypoallergenic and helps to regulate the skin's moisture levels, preventing excess oil production. Additionally, silk is less absorbent than cotton, meaning that it won't soak up the natural oils from your skin. This can help prevent acne and even reduce the appearance of acne scars over time.
The Blissy Silk Pillowcase is a great option for anyone looking to prevent and treat acne, and promote healthy skin. Made from 100% pure mulberry silk, this pillowcase is gentle on the skin and won't cause irritation or breakouts. Plus, its luxurious texture will leave you feeling pampered and well-rested.
4) Skipping sunscreen
Many people with acne-prone skin skip sunscreen out of fear that it will clog their pores and cause breakouts. However, this is a mistake that can actually make acne worse. Sun exposure can trigger acne flare-ups and even lead to hyperpigmentation and acne scarring.
When choosing a sunscreen, look for one that's oil-free and won't clog pores. You can also choose a sunscreen that contains ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which can help to soothe inflammation and prevent future breakouts. Look for a product with an SPF of at least 30 and apply it every day, even on cloudy days.
5) Skipping Exfoliation
Another common skin care mistake that can trigger acne in your 30s is skipping exfoliation. As you age, your skin cell turnover slows down, which can lead to a buildup of dead skin cells on the surface of your skin. This can clog your pores and lead to breakouts and acne.
To prevent developing acne, it's important to incorporate regular exfoliation into your skincare routine. You can use a gentle exfoliator, such as a BHA salicylic acid cleanser, to help remove dead skin cells and unclog your pores. This can also help to reduce inflammation and prevent future acne breakouts.
6) Over Exfoliating With Harsh Scrubs
While exfoliation is important for preventing acne, it's also important to avoid harsh scrubbing that can damage your skin and cause more harm than good. Harsh scrubs can strip your skin of its natural oils, causing dryness and irritation that can lead to breakouts and acne.
To avoid this, opt for a gentle exfoliator that's oil-soluble and won't damage your skin. You can also use a cleansing brush or washcloth to help remove dead skin cells without causing irritation or damage to dry skin.
7) Ignoring Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal fluctuations in adult women can also trigger acne in your 30s. Hormonal shifts can increase oil production and make breakouts occur. This can be especially true for women who are experiencing hormonal changes or shifts due to pregnancy, menopause, or other factors.
If you suspect that a hormonal imbalance may be causing your acne, it's important to speak with your primary care physician or dermatologist. They may recommend prescription medications, birth control pills (oral contraceptives), or other treatments to help regulate hormone levels, treat acne, and prevent acne breakouts.
8) Overusing Acne Products
Using too many acne products can exacerbate your acne, despite their potential benefits. Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are common ingredients in acne treatments, but their drying and irritating properties can inflame your skin, causing more breakouts.
To prevent this, it's crucial to adhere to the recommended usage of acne products and refrain from utilizing too many simultaneously. Follow the instructions carefully and limit your usage to ensure that you do not cause further harm to your skin.
9) Overdoing your skincare routine
When dealing with acne, it's important to avoid making mistakes in your skincare routine that can make the situation worse. Hormonal acne or adult onset acne can be caused by excess sebum production by the oil glands, acne causing bacteria, and body cell turnover. Factors like blood sugar, fluctuating hormones, and family history can also contribute to the development of acne. To treat adult acne, it's important to maintain a healthy skin barrier by avoiding overdoing your skincare routine and wearing sunscreen.
One mistake to avoid is using too many skincare products or too many active ingredients at once, which can lead to irritation, dryness, and acne flares. Instead, use a simple skincare routine that includes a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer, and an acne treatment product. Tea tree oil and witch hazel can be helpful natural remedies for treating acne.
10) Not washing your face before bed
This mistake may seem obvious, but sometimes, some of us need to be reminded! Avoid not washing your face before bed. This can lead to a buildup of oil, dirt, and bacteria on your skin, which can clog your pores and cause breakouts.
Sleeping with makeup on can also cause irritation and dryness, which can exacerbate acne and other skin issues. To prevent this, make sure to wash your face every night before bed using a gentle cleanser, and always remove your makeup before washing your face.
Other Miscellaneous Causes
This list is not exhaustive, but it should give you a good idea of where to start managing your adult acne. A few other things to consider:
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For those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), ovarian cysts, or excess sebum production from the sebaceous glands, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider for personalized treatment options.
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Blue light therapy can also be helpful in killing acne-causing bacteria.
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Maintaining good mental health can also be helpful, as stress can sometimes make you develop acne.
Say Goodbye to Acne With Blissy
If you're tired of waking up to acne in 30s every morning, it's time to give Blissy Silk Pillowcase a try. With its luxurious feel and proven acne-fighting benefits, it's no wonder why it's a favorite among beauty experts and dermatologists alike. Shop our website to order your own Blissy Silk Pillowcase today and take the first step towards clearer, smoother, and healthier-looking skin.
