March 8, 2023

By Nikitha Shettigar

Acne is like that one comment from a relative. Unwanted and unnecessary. While everyone shares a common sentiment of annoyance regarding acne, not everyone knows about the acne treatments out there. While in the previous episode of ''Understanding Acne,'' you learnt about all the types of acne, it is now time to decode the best treatment options available. Curating a special skincare routine to address the specific skincare need can help you get rid of acne quickly. Your chosen routine will help remove excess oil and clear your pores. In addition, a skin-friendly routine will prevent redness and irritation. While you might think the routine has to consist of a zillion steps- follow the phrase "simple is effective". What is Acne? Acne is a skin condition that shows itself unannounced through pimples, black and whiteheads. The sebaceous glands produce oil (sebum), which helps to keep the skin lubricated and healthy. When your pores are clogged with this excess sebum and dead skin cells, it causes acne to appear. It's a skin problem that affects many people, but it is very prevalent among teenagers and young people. It can occur on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders. It's caused by hormonal changes, genetics, stress, diet, and certain medications. How to cure acne? (I) Comedonal acne Comedonal acne consists of small, flesh-coloured bumps or whiteheads that appear on the skin. It consists of whiteheads and blackheads. 1.Topical retinoids:These medications are derived from Vitamin A and can help to unclog pores and prevent the formation of new comedones. Retinoids are available in prescription strength, such as tretinoin, adapalene, or over-the-counter retinoids, such as retinol. Try out the Vit-A-lity Retinol night serum that contains betaine and kokum butter, both magical ingredients that treat acne and reduces the inflammation that comes with it. 2.Salicylic acid:This ingredient can penetrate the pores and help to remove excess oil and dead skin cells. Salicylic acid is available in over-the-counter products, such as cleansers, toners, and spot treatments. Foxtale’s One zit wonder Gel contains salicylic acid- a BHA that is the best defence against acne. By unclogging pores, it cleans them deeply while also decreasing sebum production. A decrease in sebum= fewer breakouts. 3.Chemical peels:Chemical peels can help to exfoliate the skin and unclog pores. Chemical peels can be performed by a dermatologist or with over-the-counter products that contain alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). 4.Extractions:Comedonal acne can be manually extracted by a dermatologist or esthetician. This involves using a special tool to gently remove the plug of oil and dead skin cells from the pore. (II) Inflammatory acne It consists of papules, pustules, nodules and cysts. 1.Topical treatments: These include over-the-counter creams and gels containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids. A dermatologist may recommend prescription-strength medications like antibiotics, topical steroids, and azelaic acid. 2.Oral medications: If topical treatments are ineffective, oral medications like antibiotics, hormonal contraceptives, or isotretinoin may be prescribed. 3.Lifestyle changes: Eating a healthy diet, avoiding picking or squeezing pimples, and using non-comedogenic skincare products can help manage inflammatory acne. 4.Procedures: In some cases, a dermatologist may recommend procedures like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or light therapy to help reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of acne. (III) Fungal acne 1.Use antifungal products: Antifungal medications are commonly used to treat fungal acne, and they can be found in various forms, such as topical creams, shampoos, or oral medications. You should consult your healthcare provider or dermatologist to find the treatment most suitable for you. 2.Keep your skin clean and dry: Fungal acne thrives in warm and moist environments. Keep your skin clean and dry to prevent the growth of yeast. Avoid wearing tight clothing and opt for breathable fabrics. 3.Avoid using oily or heavy products: Fungal acne can be worsened by oily or heavy products. Look for non-comedogenic, oil-free products that won't clog your pores. 4.Consider using probiotics: Probiotics can help balance the bacteria on your skin and reduce yeast growth. Consider taking oral probiotics or using skincare products that contain probiotics. 5.Consult a dermatologist: If your fungal acne is severe or doesn't improve with over-the-counter treatments, consult a dermatologist. They may prescribe oral or topical antifungal medications or recommend other treatments. Tips to keep in mind to prevent acne If you've scrolled this far, you must now be aware of how to treat the type of acne that's on your skin. But additionally, here's a list of tips you can use to keep your skincare game ahead of others. 1. Cleansing your skin regularly can help prevent oil and dead cells buildup that can lead to acne. Use a gentle cleanser that removes dirt and oil from your skin along with leaving it hydrated and refreshed. 2. When you drink plenty of water, it helps flush toxins from your body. A well hydrated skin can prevent the formation of acne. 3. Getting enough sleep can help reduce stress levels, which can trigger acne. You should aim a 7-8 hours of sleep each night. 4. Picking at your pimples can lead to scarring and make acne worse. Instead, use topical or spot treatments to help reduce inflammation and clear up the pimple. Conclusion While acne can be a frustrating and emotional rollercoaster, it is treatable. You can effectively treat and calm acne by following a regular skincare routine, using topical treatments, and considering prescription medication. In addition, if you are struggling with acne scars, several treatments are available to help reduce their appearance. With the right approach, you too can achieve skin that's acne-free and glowing from within.

August 16, 2022

By Srishty Singh

Retinol, a type of Vitamin A, is touted as the holy grail of anti-ageing. Its topical application ensures healthy cellular renewal and boosts Collagen production to soften fine lines, wrinkles, laugh creases, crow’s feet, and more. However, a handful of Retinol beginners may notice discomfort in the form of flakiness, breakouts, and inflammation – also known as Retinol purging. A normal reaction to enhanced cellular turnover, purging shouldn’t discourage you from using Retinol. However, there are certain preventative measures and tips to alleviate these symptoms – that make your experience with Retinol a whole lot better. Scroll ahead to learn more. But before we get to everything purging, let’s refresh our basics on Retinol. Retinol And Its Benefits Retinol is popular for its anti-ageing benefits, but that is not all. If used in the right manner, Retinol works to 1. Prevent clogged pores 2. Minimizes pores size 3. Regulate sebum production 4. Kill acne-causing bacteria 5. Reduce acne 6. Improve skin texture and tone What Is Retinol Purging? Retinol accelerates the skin's cell turnover, and it can bring underlying acne to the surface more rapidly than it would naturally. You may notice an initial increase in acne, inflammation or dryness a.k.a. purging when you start using Retinol due to this reason. However, it's important to note that this is often a temporary side effect that can improve over time as your skin adjusts to the Retinol. What Does Retinol Purging Look Like? Retinol purging manifests in different forms in different individuals. Rare first time-Retinol users may experience - 1. Dry skin: Due to enhanced cellular turnover, dead cells may rise to the dermis – leading to dryness and flakiness. 2. Redness and inflammation: Expedited cell renewal can make new skin look red and inflamed. 3. Uneven texture and bumps: First-time Retinol users may also experience pimples, blackheads, whiteheads in bands. How Long Does Retinol Purging Last? The duration of purging differs from person to person. Most individuals experience signs of purging for 4 to 6 weeks from the first use. If your symptoms last longer than 8 weeks, we recommend consulting with a board-certified dermatologist. How To Avoid Retinol Purging And Breakouts? 1. Introduce it slowly in your routine: You can use the serum once or twice a week to get your skin used to this skincare hero. Then, once your skin has adjusted well to the product, you can gradually increase the usage to every alternate night. 2. Use a lower concentration of Retinol: A higher concentration of Retinol = faster results? That's not the case. A higher concentration of Retinol can be harsh on sensitive skin and escalate the possibility of skin purging. You can use a Retinol serum containing a lower concentration of Retinol. Foxtale's Retinol Serum contains 0.15% encapsulated Retinol, a process wherein retinol penetrates deeper into the skin cells to deliver the best benefits without causing any purging! Encapsulated Retinol boosts Collagen production, provides excellent anti-ageing results and makes your skin radiant! 3. Look for soothing ingredients: Using a Retinol serum containing soothing ingredients like Allantoin and Kokum butter causes fewer chances of your skin reacting to Retinol. Allantoin and Kokum butter provide a soothing effect on the skin and treat inflammation. In addition, the presence of Betaine helps soften the skin texture and hydrate it. 4. Always follow up with a sunscreen While you're aware that Retinol accelerates cell turnover, did you know that newer skin cells are at threat of exposure to the sun's UV rays? Always layer your skin with sunscreen to avoid the risk of skin sensitivity. Can I Keep Using Retinol After Purging? Purging is a relatively normal reaction to introducing Retinol in your skincare routine – so it's okay to continue using the ingredient. Here are some non-negotiables that will curb the discomfort or flare-ups 1. Use a hydrating cleanser: Prep your skin for Retinol with a hydrating, non-drying cleanser. Steer clear of ingredients like SLS or alcohol that dehydrate the skin, weaken the barrier and add to the dryness possibly caused by Retinol. 2. Layer active ingredients smartly: We recommend not going overboard with active ingredients. Case in point, if you are using Retinol in your nighttime skincare routine, opt for the Vitamin C Serum in the morning to avoid irritation or inflammation. 3. Moisturize always: Without moisturization, all your efforts for younger-looking skin will be futile. A potent moisturizer creates a barrier on the dermis, sealing in the Retinol molecules and hydration for best results. Additionally, slathering a generous amount of moisturizer alleviates any accidental flare-ups caused by Retinol. 4. Try sandwich method: This method involves using retinol between two layers of moisturizer. This tip will be most suitable if you're new to retinol or have sensitive skin. It doesn't make your skin prone to irritation and provides ample pampering. You Should Discontinue Retinol After Purging If 1. You have excessive redness or inflammation on the skin 2. You experience peeling skin or burning sensation that refuses to budge 3. The purging last for 6+ weeks 4. Your dermatologist asks you to discontinue Retinol with immediate effect Is There A Retinol Product That Minimizes Purging? As discussed earlier – if you are looking for a Retinol-infused formula that minimizes purging, we have a little treat for you. Try Foxtale’s 0.15% Encapsulate Serum STAT. It boasts Retinol enclosed in a protective layer that travels deep inside the skin to break open. This innovative technology helps limit episodes of purging and inflammation. 1. The gradual release of Retinol molecules into the deepest layers improves the serum’s efficacy. The lightweight formula boosts Collagen to soften fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet over time. Moreover, topical application of this Retinol Serum averts free radicals that deplete your skin’s Collagen levels. 2. Unlike other formulas, Foxtale’s uber-safe Retinol Serum doesn’t dry out the skin. Betaine, a powerful humectant at the forefront, helps bind water molecules to the skin for its long-lasting hydration. 3. The serum also carries Kokum Butter which administers long-lasting and multi-level moisturization for the skin. Plus, it makes your skin super smooth, soft, and supple. Conclusion If you want to try using retinol but are concerned about purging, there are some tips you can follow to help minimize the likelihood of this occurring. First, it's essential to understand your skin type and choose a retinol product with a lower concentration that is appropriate for your skin. Introducing the product slowly and gradually to your skin can also help to reduce the risk of irritation and purging. Among its skincare counterparts, retinol is unrivalled in providing protection from ageing, reducing pores, evening skin tone, and enhancing the glow on your face. Just out of the fear of purging, you don't have to forego your dream of youthful and radiant skin. FAQs 1. Can Retinol break you out in the first few weeks? Yes. Retinol enhances the cellular turnover process, which brings up dead-dried cells and impurities to the skin’s surface. This may result in breakouts a.k.a. purging. 2. Can you keep using Retinol with purging? Yes, you can. Purging is a normal reaction to a new active ingredient in your skincare routine. It generally subsides in 4 to 6 weeks. 3. Does Retinol help with acne in the long run? Yes. Retinol helps with acne in the long run by 1. Unclogging pores 2. Reducing acne scars 3. Abating inflammation 4. Killing acne-causing bacteria 4. How can I start retinol without purging? If you want to avoid retinol purging, follow these two necessary steps. Firstly, choose a retinol serum with a lower concentration and soothing ingredients such as betaine, allantoin, and kokum butter. These ingredients help to reduce skin irritation and redness, which are common during retinol purging. Secondly, start using retinol only once or twice a week to gradually allow your skin to adjust to the product. 5. Can I skip wearing sunscreen after using retinol? No, retinol make’s your skin sensitive to the UV rays of the sun and can cause skin damage, including wrinkles and age spots. So, to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun, it's essential to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day. 6. Can I apply retinol serum on damp skin? No, when retinol is applied on damp skin, it is less effective because the moisture on the skin can dilute the product and reduce its absorption. Additionally, wet skin may be more sensitive and prone to irritation from retinol. For best results, you should apply retinol to clean and dry skin in the evening.

June 22, 2022

By Nikitha Shettigar

It's known to be stubborn and ever so persistent. Yes! It's acne- a problem experienced by adults and teens alike. Often, it is a skin condition that is associated with oily skin. But in reality, people with dry skin too can face trouble and break out occasionally. This is a comparatively tricky situation since it is generally assumed acne is triggered by the excess production of sebum. However, it is not always the case; blackheads, clogged pores, whiteheads, and acne can also occur in dry skin. There are many causes, like dirt, bacteria, and weaker protective barrier of the skin, to name a few. Read on to find out how you can treat acne and get radiant skin despite all odds. What is acne? Acne is like the uninvited guest at a party that just won't leave! It's caused by the overproduction of oil and the buildup of dead skin cells in the pores of your skin. This leads to the formation of pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads that can be painful, unsightly and may even cause scarring if left untreated. Acne can be caused by a combination of factors including genetics, hormones, diet, and hygiene. Why and how do breakouts happen on dry skin? Dry skin can break out, too, for several reasons. Once you understand the reasons behind the breakout, you can find out the right treatment. Here are some reasons behind such breakouts. Dry skin often has dilated pores and dirt that can clog pores. This leads to a breakout. Acne-causing bacteria aggravate such breakouts even though you have dry skin. Often the pores get clogged due to sebum. Since the skin is too dry, oil secretion increases, and this, in turn, clogs the pores, which leads to a breakout. Dead skin cells and patchy skin often accumulate and, in turn, clog the pores causing an acne breakout. Harsh soaps or specific skin treatments/ingredients may irritate the skin and cause acne in dry skin. How to prevent acne on dry skin Here’s how you can tackle the issue of acne on dry skin by following these tips and tricks: 1.Use a hydrating cleanser Using a cleanser that is gentle and hydrating can be a total game-changer for your skin. Foxtale's daily duet cleanser emulsifies to remove makeup and helps get rid of dirt and dead skin cells without making the skin feel dry. It contains red algae extract, an antioxidant known for its cleansing and moisturizing properties, and vitamin B5, which aids in reducing the appearance of acne and blemishes. This unique blend of ingredients makes this cleanser a must-have for achieving and maintaining healthy, glowing skin. 2.Wash your face less frequently People with oily skin are usually recommended to wash their face frequently in order to get rid of excess oil. However, it shouldn’t be the case with dry skin. Dry skin already produces less than average sebum and if you wash your face too often, it can make it even drier. At most, it's best to wash your face twice a day. If you have extremely dry skin, try splashing some water instead of going for a full cleansing routine in the morning. 3.Moisturize your skin Don't you love the feeling of soft and bouncy skin? Along with all the nourishment a moisturizer offers, it helps protect you from harsh and drying winters. Slathering on moisturizer ensures you do not get any flakes or experience any irritation. Foxtale’s Ceramide Supercream is enriched with 3 ceramides — AP, NP, and EOP that help repair the skin barrier prevent moisture loss by forming a protective layer on the skin, and maintain the skin’s cellular structure. Although lightweight, it nourishes the skin deeply, leaving your skin hydrated for 24 hours. 4.Use SPF Whether you are indoors or outdoors or have oily or dry skin, just never skip sunscreen. For dry skin beauties who want to target acne, it’s best to look out for a sunscreen that offers a little more than just protection from UV rays. When you use a dewy sunscreen that contains skin-loving ingredients like niacinamide, panthenol, and vitamin E, it helps in strengthening the skin barrier, protecting it from free radical damage, and moisturizing it. 5.Do not physically exfoliate your skin If you have acne-prone skin, leave physical exfoliants behind. They leave micro-tears on your skin which leads to further damage on the skin, like peeling and patchiness. Instead, opt for chemical exfoliants which are hydrating as well. AHA, like lactic acid, is a good choice for dry skin specifically. 6.Try using a Retinol Retinol is the secret weapon for banishing blemishes by clearing out clogged pores and shedding dead skin cells. And if you're a little hesitant to try retinol because of potential irritation, no worries! Start with a serum that has a lower concentration of Retinol to ease into it, like Foxtale’s anti ageing night serum. It contains 0.15% encapsulated retinol which is known to show less irritation on the skin and treats the signs of ageing 2X faster compared to other retinol serums. 7.Use a spot treatment Some of you might find it hard to resist when there is a pimple to pop. But this can damage your skin much more than anything else. The tissue damage caused by squeezing out the pimple can leave behind permanent scar marks, especially on dry skin, which takes longer to heal. What’s the best acne spot treatment? One that is composed of actives like azelaic acid, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid. When these strong actives are blended in perfect proportion, they can quickly minimize the inflammation caused by acne. These spot-specific treatments are great to treat angry-looking acne, and acne scars since the rest of your skin remain unaffected by its effect. The Conclusion Dry, acne-prone skin can be difficult to manage, but with the right skincare routine and habits, it is possible to achieve acne-free skin. An effective skincare routine for dry, acne-prone skin should include a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer with non-comedogenic ingredients, and a product with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to target acne. Additionally, it's important to avoid using harsh skincare products and to protect your skin from the sun. Drinking enough water, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding touching your face with your hands can also help to prevent acne. With a consistent skincare routine and healthy habits, you can achieve the clear and radiant skin you desire. FAQs 1.Which moisturizer can I use for dry and acne-prone skin? For dry skin, you will need a moisturizer that is nourishing, leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth. To provide the necessary hydration, you can try Foxtale's Comfort zone moisturizer which is created to address the needs of dry and sensitive skin. It contains Saccharide Isomerate, which adds up to 275% moisture and the goodness of olive leaf extracts and vitamin E that helps to enhance the skin's moisture retention ability. 2.Why is it important to use spot treatment? Spot treatments are necessary to reduce the redness and swelling that comes with acne. It also prevents the formation of new blemishes. Not only do they help reduce the appearance of existing blemishes, but they also prevent new ones from forming. A spot corrector gel packed with powerhouse ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and azelaic acid, is a one-stop-shop for unclogging pores, killing acne-causing bacteria, and speeding up cell turnover for a clearer, brighter complexion. 3.How can I reduce the appearance of my acne scars? You can gradually reduce the appearance of acne scars by adding retinol and vitamin C serum to your routine. They are known to be the most effective treatment for acne scars. They aid in reducing the appearance of acne scars by boosting collagen production, thereby encouraging the growth of healthier skin and facilitating the healing of acne wounds.

January 31, 2022

By Nikitha Shettigar

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.