When the glands in the skin are overactive and dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria accumulate, the pores can become inflamed, and the result may be an outbreak of pimples. During puberty, hormones become active, the oil glands are stimulated, and many young people in their teens have to deal with it. But the cause can also be partly genetic, and if others in the family had it in the past or are treating it now, you have a greater chance of developing it as well, regardless of your age.
What You Can do to Prevent Pimples
Taking the following steps may help to prevent or reduce your problems with acne:
● Washing your skin will remove dead skin cells and surface oils that clog the pores, but over-drying the skin can irritate existing acne or cause other damage.
● Washing after you exercise or perform any strenuous activity is important because sweat can clog the pores.
● Look for lotion or makeup that is non-acnegenic or non-comedogenic, meaning that it won’t clog your pores.
● Since they may contain oils that irritate acne, try to keep styling gel or hair spray away from your face.
● If pimples develops on your back or chest, avoid tight-fitting clothes that can cause irritation.
Often, using an over-the-counter product may help to fight acne, but you might have to use the trial-and-error method before you find one that really works for you, and some are stronger than others. (Benzoyl peroxide is an effective ingredient and salicylic acid is used to remove pimples.) If you can’t resolve the problem, a doctor can prescribe one or more medications so that your skin will look its best. In this case, even if the condition improves, you should take the entire prescription, unless your dermatologist, tells you otherwise so that you won’t break out again.
Taking Care of Your Skin to Prevent Pimples
Sometimes learning how to prevent pimples is as simple as learning how to take care of your body. Eating nutritious foods is always a good idea, and your skin will also benefit from your intake of vitamins and minerals. Eating foods rich in antioxidants, such as blueberries, will also help improve the quality of your skin. You will also want to increase the amount of your water you drink each day to at least 8 glasses a day (64oz total). Being hydrated has many benefits, and healthy skin is just one of them.
To exfoliate the skin, find a gentle formula with small, smooth grains and avoid any product containing apricot or almond shell fragments. If you use a skin toner, choose one without a high concentration of isopropyl or rubbing alcohol, which cause the glands to produce additional oil. Note also that squeezing or picking at a blemish can result in increased infection and inflammation and may leave a permanent scar.
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