5 tips for you with acne or acne-prone skin

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions and affects millions of people worldwide, both young people and adults. It usually shows up as pimples, blackheads and inflamed rashes on areas like the face, chest and back – where the sebaceous glands are most active. Acne occurs when these sebaceous glands produce too much sebum (sebum), which in combination with dead skin cells clogs the pores. This creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth and inflammation, which can lead to acne breakouts.

For many, acne can affect both self-esteem and psychological well-being. If you have oily skin, you may be at greater risk of acne, as excess sebum increases the risk of clogged pores and pimples. Many people mistakenly believe that acne-prone skin requires intensive cleansing, but this is a myth that can actually worsen the situation. The important thing is to find a balanced skin care routine that regulates sebum production without irritating or drying out the skin.

Here are five tips to help you manage acne and acne-prone skin, followed by information on how to treat acne medically.

1. Wash your face gently and avoid over-cleansing

Many people believe that acne-prone skin requires frequent cleansing, but washing your face too much can actually damage the skin's natural protective barrier and worsen acne. When the skin is dried out by excessive cleansing, the sebaceous glands produce even more oil to compensate, leading to more breakouts. Our recommendation is to wash your face in the evening with a gentle, perfume-free cleanser specially formulated for acne-prone skin. Avoid strong soaps and products that scrub the skin.

2. Choose non-comedogenic products

When you have acne-prone skin, it's important to use skin care products that don't clog pores. Choose products that are "non-comedogenic," meaning they don't contain ingredients that can clog or block pores. Use skin care products specifically formulated for acne-prone skin to keep skin hydrated and protect from the sun without contributing to new breakouts.

3. Regulate sebum production with active ingredients

To reduce sebum production and keep the skin balanced, it can be a good idea to include active ingredients in your skin care routine. Careful use of very mild acids, such as your cleanser, can help dissolve clogged pores and exfoliate the skin in a gentle way. Azelaic acid is another effective ingredient that both fights bacteria and soothes inflammation. Niacinamide is also an ingredient that can help regulate sebum production and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.

4. Moisturize the skin properly

Even if you have acne-prone skin, it's important to moisturize your skin. Many people with acne-prone skin avoid moisturizing products, but when the skin becomes dehydrated, the sebaceous glands can produce more oil to compensate. Choose a light moisturizer specifically developed for acne-prone skin to hydrate the skin without increasing oiliness. By keeping the skin balanced, you reduce the risk of overproduction of sebum and future breakouts.

5. Protect the skin from the sun

Many people think that the sun dries out pimples, but prolonged sun exposure can worsen acne by damaging the skin and causing inflammation. In addition, the sun can cause hyperpigmentation, especially after acne breakouts, which can lead to dark spots and scars. Always use a sunscreen with a high SPF that is non-comedogenic, i.e. with ingredients that do not clog pores. This helps protect your skin without causing more breakouts.

Medical treatments for acne

In more severe cases, or if your acne causes scarring, pain or affects your psychological well-being, it is wise to consider medical treatments. If you have a genetic predisposition to acne scarring or have melanin-rich skin, you should seek help early to avoid scarring.

A dermatologist can tailor a treatment plan to suit your needs, including ointments, creams and medications.

By following these tips, you can manage acne-prone skin and reduce breakouts over time. Remember that acne is an individual skin condition, so it's important to find a routine that works for you. If your symptoms are severe or do not improve with self-care, do not hesitate to consult a dermatologist for personalized treatment and advice.