A Step-by-Step Skincare Guide to Achieving Acne-Free Skin

To all those grappling with acne – we see you. We understand the toll acne takes on your appearance and mental well-being, but it gets better. And no, you don’t need a multi-step routine with redundant formulas. Just stick to a simple, 5-step skincare regularly and see the results for yourself.   

A word to the wise – acne-free skin requires persistent efforts over time. So, remember to be patient while dealing with the concern.    

Before we introduce you to simple yet result-oriented formulas to tackle acne, here’s a refresher on the subject. 

Understanding Acne 

In simple terms, acne occurs when dirt, excess sebum, and dead cells clog the pores on your face. This concern worsens when bacteria start to thrive in these closed comedones, leading to redness and inflammation. To better understand how to thwart acne, here are its different triggers. 

What Causes Acne? 

Acne is caused by a flurry of factors. Ahead, we the most common ones -

1. Genetics: You may be genetically predisposed to oily or acne-prone skin. So, if your parents struggled with acne, chances are you will too.

2. Lack of a skincare routine: If you don’t have a routine in place or struggle to stick with one, you are more likely to face acne. Therefore, it is recommended to have an AM/PM regimen compromising cleansing, toning, treating, moisturizing, and SPF.

3. Lifestyle patterns: Are you not getting enough shut-eye? If yes, you might be more susceptible to breakouts. Similarly, habits like smoking, eating high-glycemic foods and stressing too much give way to pesky acne.

4. Greasy, comedogenic skincare/makeup: If you are experiencing inexplicable breakouts, double-check your skincare/makeup products for the non-comedogenic value marker. 

Different Types Of Acne  

To nip acne in the bud, you ought to know the type (and severity) of the problem. Here’s a look at the different types of acne -

1. Whiteheads: These tiny bumps occur when dead cells, sebum, and impurities clog the pores on your face. Whiteheads have smaller openings on the skin’s surface and don’t permit air to enter.

2. Blackheads: Similar to whiteheads, blackheads are formed due to clogged pores. However, these bumps have bigger openings on the skin’s surface, allowing oxygen to enter and oxidize the melanin, resulting in the black hue.

3. Papules: These bumps are small and extremely delicate to touch.

4. Pustules: Pustules have a striking resemblance to papules. Additionally, these bumps ooze pus and can be pretty painful.

5. Nodules: If you feel the zit underneath your skin, know it's a nodule. These painful lumps often lead to scarring, if not treated right away.

6. Cystic: The most notorious form of acne, cystic lumps are deep, pus-filled, and demand attention right off the bat. 

Common Myths And Misconceptions About Acne 

To reduce breakouts, here are some myths and misconceptions you should banish -

1. Acne is triggered solely by poor hygiene: This is one of the biggest myths in the skincare world. As seen earlier, acne occurs due to a gamut of reasons - hormonal imbalances, genetics, lifestyle choices, and more.

2. Popping pimples achieves clear skin: Not likely. If anything, popping pimples pushes bacteria deeper into the skin, aggravating the breakout.

3. Acne affects only teenagers: Not true. While acne is pretty common in teens due to fluctuating hormones, it can occur well into your 20s, 30s, and so forth.

4. All acne is the same: False! Acne falls under two broad categories, inflammatory and non-inflammatory. The type (and severity) of acne plays an important role in determining its cure.

Step-By-Step Skincare Routine For Acne 

Now that the triggers, types, and myths about acne are clear, here’s an infallible skincare that will grant you clear skin. So, keep scrolling -

1. Cleansing: The First Essential Step 

Cleansing removes dirt, dead cells, and other impurities from the skin, preventing clogged pores. Look for a gentle formula infused with Salicylic Acid or Niacinamide that achieves a clean base without making your skin dry. Experts suggest cleansing twice daily to ensure better absorption of your acne treatment.

2. Exfoliation: Removing Dead Cells   

A potent exfoliant dissolves buildup (re dead cells, impurities, and more) to prevent acne breakouts. Use a chemical or physical scrub 2 to 3 times during the week at night to also combat dullness, clogged pores, and excess sebum on the face. Remember, over-exfoliation zaps moisture from the skin, leading to dryness, inflammation, and other problems. So, don’t go overboard.

3. Toning: Balancing Your Skin’s PH 

Expelling excess oil and buildup from the skin can make it imbalanced. This is why a toner fits exceptionally well in an anti-acne routine. This lightweight formula removes dirt and makeup residue while restoring your skin’s pH. A toner also ensures shine control with a soothing effect on aggravated skin. Make the most of this skincare staple with ingredients like Witch Hazel, Niacinamide, and Green Tea). Spritz a hint of the formula right after cleansing for best results.

4. Serum And Treatments: Targeting Acne At The Root 

To target acne at its root, you need to employ a serum in your rotation. Ingredients like Salicylic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, and Retinol bode well for folks grappling with acne. Employ one such high-performing serum in your morning or nighttime routine. If you get a zit or two overnight, consider opting for a more concentrated spot treatment.

5. Moisturizing: Hydration Without Clogging Pores  

Contrary to the popular misconception, acne-prone skin needs moisturizer. That’s right. This emollient-rich formula keeps skin hydration intact, preventing the overproduction of sebum (and therefore acne). However, to keep clogged pores at bay, one needs a non-comedogenic, gel-based formula that doesn’t feel icky on application.

5. Sun Protection: Preventing Dark Spots And Breakouts  

Continued exposure to UV rays can also trigger breakouts and dark spots. To bid farewell to both these concerns, invest in a broad-spectrum SPF. Furthermore, to prevent clogged pores, look for a non-comedogenic sunscreen with a mattifying ingredient like Niacinamide. Take 2 fingers’ worth of your sunscreen and massage it gently on your face. Remember to cover your ears and neck as they aren’t spared from the sun’s wrath. Use it every morning, even on an overcast day.