Kourtney Kardashian
Wouldn’t it be nice if we all just grew out of acne at a certain age? Ohp, 27 now, officially time to stop breaking out, hooray! Unfortunately, however, that’s not how skin works. It may seem cruel that our most forward-facing, interactive body part, aka the facial complexion, must be victim to breakouts for most of our lives, following (most of) us beyond our pubescent years. Here are some hacks from Kourt and Sarah Howard’s go-to derm, Eric Lovato, PA-C, and dermatologist, Dr. Gene Rubinstein of Dermatology and Laser Centre.
Practice manager Rita Rubinstein shares that at the Dermatology and Laser Centre, they are extremely passionate about this subject, because they work with patients to combine medical treatments with lifestyle modifications, keeping things gentle and natural whenever possible.
Plant-Based Protein Bars
Price: $36
R.E.D.D.
… and anything with a high glycemic index. “Sugar and dairy have a direct correlation to acne breakouts,” Lovato tells us. “We recommend limiting or completely eliminating foods with high glycemic index, specifically, cereal and milk, pasta, and other processed foods.” Stick to natural sweeteners and look for low sugar on labels. We love these protein bars for a natural, low sugar sweet treat to help kick cravings.
“Mineral water, with or without carbonation, and definitely without any added sugar, is best for hydration and acne prevention.”
Forma Viridi Balance Mask
Price: $45
Eluo
Lovato adds that “most importantly, do not pop, squeeze, or pick at acne. This can make acne worse by spreading inflammation and causing scarring or pigmentation. Comedones should be removed only by an experienced health professional.” Try an at home steam, and a gentle clay mask to draw out impurities in between treatments.
Choose zinc-based sunscreens, not homosalate or oxybenzone
“Sunscreen choice for acne- or rosacea-prone patients is important because chemical sunscreens produce heat in the skin. If you have ever felt a tingling sensation when you put on sunscreen and went out in the sun, it is because the chemicals designed to absorb the rays of the sun take on the heat, heating up the skin and thereby inducing rosacea breakouts, which are in the acne family. Using a physical sunscreen with the natural ingredients of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide will help prevent breakouts related to sunscreen use.”
Over-the-counter help, but don't go gentle
“Using retinols and vitamin A derivatives helps gently exfoliate the skin and prevent acne breakouts. Retinol is an over-the-counter option for retin-A, which is found in many prescription acne products.” Be sure to ease into use of these active ingredients, as to not irritate already-inflamed skin.
Gently wash, don’t abrasively scrub
Best Skin Ever
Price: $31
Living Libations
“Gently wash your face twice a day with a mild soap or an antibacterial facial cleanser, and pat dry,” he shares. Vigorous washing and scrubbing can irritate your skin and make acne worse. We love the gentle nature of this oil cleanser with sea buckthorn.
Use natural makeup and skincare vs. heavy coverage to mask the problem
At Poosh, we’re all about going green and non-toxic when it comes to what we put in and on our body, and makeup is no different. However, even some clean brands contain ingredients that aren’t technically non-comedogenic, so make sure to read your labels.
Exercise, but wash your face after sweating
Sweat, unnatural materials, and sports equipment are all aggravating to existing acne or the acne prone, but exercising is crucial for boosting blood flow, and healthy circulation = healthy skin! However, make sure to avoid makeup before a sweaty workout, and always wash your face after sweating.
Face towel
Price: $35
Resoré
Dry your clean face after cleansing with a fresh towel, and wash your pillowcase often. Grime adds up fast.
Eat anti-inflammatory foods
Avocados, almonds, blueberries, and kidney beans can all help prevent and treat inflammation. Include these in your diet whenever possible.
Frankincense Tonic
Price: $35
Living Libations
Just as important as it is to cleanse, avoid over-cleansing. Drying out the skin and stripping the barrier of its protective oils can have an adverse effect on sensitive skin, so wash thoroughly at night, double cleanse if you’re wearing makeup or sunscreen, and rinse in the morning, or just use a gentle cleanser post-workout—one or two times a day max is sufficient. Refresh with a soothing, antimicrobial facial mist throughout the day if you feel your face needs a refresh.
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