Why do I get acne?

You usually get a pimple when the pores of your skin become blocked with a mix of oil, dead skin and bacteria. This shows up on the surface as inflammation in the form of a whitehead, blackhead or cyst. Eventually, the pores become clogged and push their contents to the skin’s surface. It is important to note that it is multifactorial. You can be hit with a zit for many reasons, some of which you can control and others you can’t. It is not a definitive list—because so many things can cause breakouts at different times in your life. But if any of these issues ring a bell, here’s what you can do.

• You could have oily skin

Some people are genetically programmed to make more oil. Skin cells stick together within the follicles (especially if you aren’t exfoliating) and then trap oil from reaching the surface. This causes oil to fill the pore, which when melded with any bacteria in the area, leads to acne.

• Your beauty products could be getting in the way

You might be trying really hard to eat better, sleep more often and stick to your anti-acne routine. But if your products aren’t working for you, they could be causing acne. Mineral oil, for example, which is in many moisturizers, could clog your pores and cause blackheads or whiteheads. Fragrance, if you’re sensitive to it, could also increase inflammation and make you more prone to zits.

• You’re about to get your period

Just before you get your period, oestrogen and progesterone levels fall, and testosterone levels are higher than usual. This triggers your sebaceous glands to secrete more sebum. Too much can result in clogged pores and breakouts. This is true in the case of medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which cause an overproduction of androgens, which can cause hormonal acne. These are usually seen on the bottom half of the face.

• You’re stressed out

When you’re nervous, upset or overwhelmed, your body is in a fight-or-flight mode for longer than it should be. This causes the production of a corticotropin-releasing hormone and cortisol. These promote the overproduction of oil, which leads to a worsened inflammation.

• You’re eating sugary foods

When blood sugar levels spike, the body produces more insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). Eating foods with a high glycemic index can cause breakouts. Increased insulin ups the level of androgens, which increases sebum production.

• You’re not washing your face enough (or you’re over-washing it)

To help prevent pimples, it’s important to remove excess oil, makeup, and sweat daily, so you can prevent congestion. Exfoliating is key too. You can ensure that you break down the glue between dead skin cells so they don’t stick together and accumulate. But, at the same time, if you over-cleanse, you could dehydrate your skin, which could make things worse. When skin is too dry, it causes a backup of dead skin, as well as excess sebum production to overcompensate, which hampers the balance even further.

What are the different kinds of acne?

The five main kinds of acne are whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules and cysts.

Also Read: Acne: Types, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

What are the major topical skincare ingredients I can use?

When it comes to tackling acne, topical ingredients are the most effective. They work to prevent, inhibit and treat them. These are some of the most popular ones you’ll spot on ingredient labels:

• Salicylic acid 

The structure of the salicylic acid molecule makes it oil soluble, so it is able to break down the oil collected in the pores. It is able to penetrate so deep into the skin, unclogging pores and cleaning it deeply. Using an acne spot corrector gel that contains salicylic acid helps in controlling oil production and prevents breakouts. This is an ideal ingredient to use if you have blackheads or whiteheads and it works as a great preventative agent. 

• Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide works by inhibiting the growth of acne-causing bacteria and peeling dead skin cells away. It can cause dryness and irritation if you apply too much of it though, so doctors suggest layering it as a spot treatment. 

• Retinoids

Retinoids increase the turnover rate by getting rid of the top layer of dead skin cells and promoting the growth of new collagen and healthy new skin. It works as the gold standard for acne therapy. 

• Alpha Hydroxy Acids

AHAs like glycolic acid is water soluble, it exfoliates the dead skin cells on the surface, to remove dead skin cells and excess oil. 

• Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid is a comedolytic, so it breaks down pore blockages and keeps new ones from forming, and it is able to get rid of the bacteria on the surface, reducing redness and inflammation in the process. 

The Conclusion 

Having acne can be a difficult thing to deal with, but remember, your worth as a person is not defined by the presence or absence of it. When you incorporate the right products into your routine, the road to clear skin doesn't seem like a bumpy ride. By consistently following this routine, you can help regulate oil production, unclog pores, and prevent future breakouts. Achieving radiant and acne-free skin won't seem like a far-fetched dream anymore. 

FAQs 

1. What can I do as soon as I feel a zit coming on?

Keep your hands off! You don’t want to risk transferring any bacteria from your fingers onto the inflamed area and making it worse. Pros suggest icing the area—it soothes and may reduce redness. You may want to treat the area with small amounts of salicylic acid, and then layer a moisturizer to prevent dryness.

2. What measures can I take to prevent oily skin? 

Blotting excess oil from your skin is an excellent way of preventing excess oil appearance throughout the day. Keep in mind to cleanse your face even after exercising. Never skip putting on sunscreen. 

3. What causes acne on the face? 

Acne is caused when sebum and dead skin cells clog the hair follicles. It is also caused due to hormonal changes seen during puberty which can increase oil production, leading to acne. Factors like stress and diet can also contribute to acne outbreaks.

Acne is a common skin concern, irrespective of age or gender. However, everybody craves radiant and acne-free skin. To achieve that, a thorough skincare routine is essential. But a busy lifestyle can make it difficult to dedicate the required time and effort.

Thankfully, the advanced science in cosmetology today has brought forth many ingredients which are highly effective to combat acne. Keeping your skincare routine simple and compact with products rich in these ingredients will greatly help to keep skin troubles at bay.  

Let us find out more about these miracle products and ingredients that are a must-have for those with acne-prone skin. 

Best Ingredients for Acne-Prone Skin

Here are some of the most tried and tested ingredients you will find in all products targeting acne control and prevention. When shopping for skincare, be sure to check the label for them:

1) Salicylic Acid (BHA)

It ranks amongst the best weapon in your battle against acne. You will find salicylic acid or BHA as an active ingredient in many prescribed as well as over-the-counter skincare products for reducing acne. It is a beta hydroxy acid known as a mild exfoliant that removes dead skin and prevents clogged pores. As a result, the skin stays much cleaner which is crucial to prevent and reducing acne. 

Using a product containing this BHA in the form of a cream, gel, and facewash can help unclog pores and decreases sebum production leading to fewer breakouts. Do note, the concentration of BHA in your skincare plays a major role. The tolerance towards BHA concentration varies from one person to another. Thus, one must make the choice carefully when buying products over the counter. Also, a patch test is highly recommended.                                                                                            

2) Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl Peroxide is another widely used ingredient for acne treatment. You get it in the form of gel, cream, lotion, and even in face washes and soaps. It is an over-the-counter product, hence it is widely available. Being a comparatively mild ingredient, it is widely recommended by doctors for most people. The consistency is tolerable in all skin types.

However, there is a drawback to benzoyl peroxide. It can cause significant skin bleaching that may lead to discolouration. It is reactive even with your hair, clothes, or bed sheets. To avoid such problems, products with benzoyl peroxide are applied topically on specific skin areas and must be given time to get accustomed to your skin. 

 3) Azelaic Acid

Known to have anti-inflammatory properties, azelaic acid is known to treat skin conditions like rosacea and acne effectively. It helps clean bacteria which ultimately saves your pores from any acne outbreaks. Known to speed up cell turnover, your skin can heal quickly and reduces acne scars significantly. 

Many people suffer from a painful variant of acne where the skin gets irritated and becomes red and inflamed. This ingredient is particularly suited for such types of acne. The soothing effect calms down the skin and it is mild enough for all skin types. 

 4) Vitamin C

Vitamin C serum is a highly valued skincare ingredient that is renowned for its ability to soothe the skin and delay the signs of ageing. Its nourishing properties make it a must-have addition to any skincare routine. It helps the skin to maintain its elasticity and protect from sun damage. It also helps to fade scars and hyperpigmentation, making it useful as a post-acne treatment.

Once the acne is dry and gets cured, a spot is often left behind. Vitamin-C-rich serum or lotion when used regularly can fade these marks. Foxtale’s C for yourself Vitamin C Serum is particularly useful for the treatment. Besides this, increase the intake of vitamin-C-rich food to internally get the benefits and cure the spots faster.

5) Retinol

This ingredient is known for its versatility in the skincare world. Yes, you guessed it right- it's Retinol. This product is considered a true gem for those looking for effective acne defense. It is widely regarded as a holy grail for maintaining clear, healthy skin. It inhibits the growth of new acne by unclogging pores and reducing oil production. Thus, it not only cures acne but also prevents future relapse.

If you're a skincare newbie, try using a product containing encapsulated retinol. It makes your skin less prone to irritation and treats the signs of ageing 2X faster that regular retinol serums. 

 6) Niacinamide 

Niacinamide is a type of vitamin B3 that is also known widely for actively preventing external pollutants from accumulating on your skin and clogging pores. As a result, products with this ingredient help to keep your skin cleaner and prevent further acne. Niacinamide is found majorly in day creams and sunscreens and even in certain face washes. A Niacinamide-rich sunscreen is ideal if you have to go out daily. Especially those with acne-prone and sensitive skin benefit greatly from this ingredient in sunscreen.

A few tips & tricks you can use 

• Avoid product overuse 

When you're using spot treatment gels that contain actives like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, it is best to apply it only to the affected area. Overusing the product may cause your skin to feel irritated. 

• Sandwich method 

If you have concerns about retinol causing skin irritation, the "sandwich method" is a solution to consider. This method involves applying retinol between two layers of moisturizer, helping sensitive skin gradually adjust to the product. 

• Apply Sunscreen

Using sunscreen is crucial for the long-term health of your skin. Some ingredients in skincare products can increase your skin's sensitivity to UV rays, making it even more important to protect your skin from sun damage with sunscreen. By applying sunscreen regularly, you can prevent skin ageing, dark spots, and skin cancer.

• Avoid clogging agents 

If you have oily skin, it's best to avoid using moisturizers that contain occlusive agents. These agents seal in moisture, which can make your skin feel oily and greasy, exacerbating the issue of excess oil production. Instead, look for lightweight moisturizers that hydrate your skin without adding any extra grease.

• Choose skin-friendly ingredients 

When shopping for skincare products, it's a good idea to look for ones that contain non-comedogenic ingredients. Non-comedogenic ingredients are formulated to not clog pores, which can reduce the risk of breakouts. By using products with these ingredients, you can keep your skin hydrated and healthy without the risk of making it too oily.

The conclusion 

Remember- It is essential to maintain a healthy skincare routine that includes cleansing, moisturizing and protecting to prevent acne from occurring in the first place. Irrespective of your skin texture or type, this is the fail-proof way to keep the skin healthier. If your skincare kit has ingredients dedicated to acne prevention, that is an added advantage. In short, you must look for the above-mentioned ingredients when you are buying skincare items to get a complete acne solution.

FAQs 

1.I have a habit of touching my face. Will it contribute to more acne? 

Yes, touching your face frequently can increase the risk of breakouts by transferring oil, dirt, and bacteria to your skin. This can lead to clogged pores and result in more pimples and blemishes. It's essential to avoid touching your face to minimize the spread of these irritants.

2.What can make my acne worse? 

Negative skincare habits, such as popping pimples, consuming excessive amounts of sugary products, neglecting to clean personal items like phones, experiencing high levels of stress, and using pore-clogging makeup, can worsen acne.

3.How will salicylic acid work on my acne? 

Salicylic acid is a type of BHA that can unclog pores and reduce redness and swelling associated with acne. It works by penetrating deep into the skin and removing dead skin cells that can clog pores, which can lead to pimples and blackheads. Salicylic acid also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and swelling associated with acne.            

When you use a new skincare product, you will discover three things; it can work for you, make your skin feel irritated, or cause you to break out. The problem is not the irritation or breakout; it's figuring out which of the two you are experiencing. Let's discuss purging and breakouts in detail to understand the difference. 

What Is Skin Purging And Breakouts? 

In simple words, purging is nothing but a reaction that occurs when you use a specific skincare product or procedure for the first time. It does not necessarily happen to everyone; not all skincare products will make you purge. But majorly, retinoids and other exfoliating acids, such as AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin C, etc., are known to cause purging.  

Worried if it's normal for your skin to purge? The skin naturally sheds dead skin cells and renews itself, but specific ingredients like retinoids should accelerate it. And this makes the impurities underneath come to the skin's surface faster, causing it to purge. It usually happens when you introduce a new product that your skin is not used to in your skincare routine. So there's nothing you need to worry about. 

On the other hand, if your skin is not purging and breaking out, it will irritate the skin, clog pores, and lead to acne. Unlike purging, breakouts are caused because a particular product is unsuitable for your skin. Most commonly, when a skincare product is comedogenic or has ingredients that can cause allergies, it will cause a breakout. These products can be anything from cleansers to facial oils. Other reasons for breakouts can be stress, pollution, and dirt. 

Quick Comparison: Purging vs. Breakouts

What Does Skin Purging Look Like?

Skin purging can show itself as red bumps, whiteheads and blackheads on the face. In addition, it causes dead skin cells to surface, which results in flakiness and dryness. These signs can also indicate your skin is getting accustomed to a product.  

How To Tell Purging From Breaking Out

Now that you know these two, here's how you can differentiate between them. However, distinguishing a breakout from a purge can be difficult for people with acne. So, here is a list of signs you can look out for:

1. Check the duration

Purging is temporary and doesn't last for more than a month. However, breakouts last for a while, more than a month.

2. Check the product type

Purging can happen only after introducing a new skincare product or procedure that increases cell turnover. Hence, purging can only result from products with active ingredients such as Retinol, Benzoyl Peroxide, Hydroxy acids, L ascorbic acid, etc. Breakouts, conversely, can result from trying a new product that isn't right for you or can clog your pores.

3. Check the location

Purging occurs only around the areas that you usually break out. So, if your chin is where your most breakouts are, you will purge there. In contrast, breakouts occur on your face, forehead, shoulders and chest.

4. Check the signs

Purging makes you experience no such signs of irritation or pain. However, with breakouts, you may see dryness, irritation, redness, itchiness, swelling, and pain.

5. The after-effects

With purging, you won't see any blemishes or marks afterwards. But breakouts leave scars when they are gone.

What Are Some Tips And Tricks To Avoid Purging?  

Preventing skin purging, which happens due to a new ingredient or skincare product, can be alleviated with these tips.   

1. Introduce products slowly into your skincare: If you are new to an ingredient or skincare product, start by using it 1 to 2 times a week. Increase the product’s frequency only when your skin reacts well to the addition. 

2. Patch test: Before applying a new product to your entire face, do a patch test on your neck. If outcomes seem favourable, apply the active-laced formula on your face (initially only 1 or 2 times a week). 

3. Choose the right ingredients: Pick products that address your concerns while elevating overall skin health. For example, folks with acne-prone skin can try ingredients like Salicylic acid, Niacinamide, AHAs, and BHAs.

4. Avoid over-exfoliation at all costs: Cut down the use of exfoliating products to prevent inflammation or irritation on your skin. 

5. Hydrate-hydrate-hydrate: Studies show that hydrated skin recovers faster. Moreover, ample hydration boosts barrier health and reduces instances of flare-ups and inflammation significantly. 

6. Be Patient: Skin purging can last a couple of weeks. If symptoms persist, consult your dermatologist. 

7. Maintain a Consistent Routine: Adhere to a simple, 4-step skincare routine with gentle formulas. Observe other factors like stress, diet, and hormonal changes that can impact your skin. If you're concerned about recurring issues, consulting a dermatologist can provide personalized advice and solutions.  

What Is A Simple Yet Effective Skincare Routine To Alleviate Purging Episodes  

The best way to alleviate purging episodes is by adhering to a simple yet effective skincare routine. Here’s how you can do so  

1. Start by cleansing: Use a gentle, pH-balancing cleanser to remove dirt, grime, and other impurities from the pores while ensuring a healthy microbiome. Folks with dry or sensitive skin can try Foxtale’s Hydrating Face Wash. It contains Sodium Hyaluronate and Red Algae Extract that ensure sustained hydration for the skin. Moreover, the gentle surfactants in the face wash make it a great makeup remover.

People with oily or sensitive skin can try Foxtale’s Acne Control Face Wash. Salicylic Acid at the heart of this formula blots excess oil, controls acne, and soothes inflammation. The best part? Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide are at the forefront of replenishing your skin’s moisture bank and boosting its overall health.

2. Apply serum: If you want to improve your skin’s health, hydration, and barrier function, pick a Niacinamide or Hyaluronic Acid treatment. Foxtale’s Daily Hydrating Serum carries humectants like Sodium Hyaluronate, Aquaporin Boosters, Red Algae Extracts, Betaine, Alpha-Bisabolol, and Pro-Vitamin B5 for 6X hydration. Moreover, the topical application of this formula offsets all signs of inflammation or irritation. Use 2 to 3 drops of the efficacious serum and gently dab it on your face. Observe caution around sensitive areas like the eyes and the mouth.

3. Moisturize: Don’t skip moisturization because of purging episodes. A moisturizing formula maintains a healthy microbiome for the skin by offsetting inflammation, maintaining hydration, and accelerating healing. People with dry skin should try Foxtale’s Hydrating Moisturizer STAT. The lightweight formula contains Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer and Olive Oil that improve your skin’s capacity to hold moisture. Alternatively, people with oily skin can try Foxtale’s Oil Balancing Moisturizer. The Niacinamide-infused formula cuts excess sebum, prevents clogged pores, and soothes inflammation. If you have extremely dry or sensitive skin, try our Skin Repair Cream. The unique formulation uses ERS technology to hydrate, nourish, and heal the dermis. Take a few drops of your favourite Foxtale moisturizer and massage it on your skin. Don’t forget to cover your neck and ears.

4. Sun protect: No skincare routine is complete without sunscreen. A potent sunscreen formula shields the skin against harmful UV rays, preventing episodes of tanning, burns, pigmentation, and photoaging. If you have dry or sensitive skin, try Foxtale’s Dewy Sunscreen for your daily routine. It contains D-Panthenol and Vitamin E that ensure a long-lasting moisturization effect for the skin. Alternatively, people with oily or combination skin can try our Mattifying Sunscreen. The lightweight formula helps with infallible sun protection while cutting excess sebum and preventing clogged pores.

Related Articles:

1. How to Control Retinol Skin Purging
2. Simple 3 step Skincare Routine 
3. Know the Causes And Treatments of sudden Acne Breakouts

The Conclusion

It's important to note that while skin purging can be frustrating, it's a natural process and a sign that the skincare product is working. Sticking with the product for at least a few weeks is usually best to see if your skin adjusts and improves over time. Each skin type is different, and its reaction will vary. Therefore, it is crucial to remain patient and consistent to reap the best benefits from your skincare products. However, if the purging is severe or causing discomfort, it's always a good idea to check with a dermatologist.