Preventing Product-Induced Breakouts: A Simple Guide

We all want skin that is healthy, glowing and spotless.

In our quest to get the best for our skin, we often end up hoarding products that promise all this and more. We slather on the products, trying to find the right mix to get rid of those dark spots, to prevent those wrinkles and to add back some life to our skin. The end result, though, may or may not be what we wanted.

Using too many products on your skin and rigorous washing and scrubbing can lead to breakouts and splotches. It can cause irritation, especially when high concentrations are applied to a small localized area.

Skin Care Routine For Acne Prone Skin

You don’t always have to do too much to look after your skin. Following a few basics and taking care of regular hygiene is enough to give your skin the boost it needs.

The cleansing toning moisturizing routine is one that should be religiously followed in order to keep skin fresh and dirt free.

These four steps are sufficient to take care of your skin without an over dose of products:

1. Wash your skin twice:

Washing your skin will make sure there are no residuals left. It will leave your skin feeling clean and health.

• Wash your skin daily with a mild cleanser.
• Use only your fingertips to clean your face.
• Avoid using wash cloths or scrubbing pads as these may contain bacteria.
• Those with sensitive skin or breakouts may use a cleanser containing benzyl peroxide.
• Avoid using strong or harsh soaps or cleansers on your face. These can dry your skin and strip it of natural lipids.
• Choose cleansers that are gentle, soap-free and contain plant based cleaning agents. Check to see that they are pH-balanced and mild.

2. Exfoliation once or twice a week:

Exfoliating the skin should be an important step in your skin cleansing ritual. It helps to get rid of the dead skin cells and oils that can clog the pores. This, in turn, will help prevent various skin problems such as black heads, white heads and acne.

• Use an exfoliating scrub that is suitable for your skin type.
• These scrubs contain granules that rub against the surface of your skin. Make sure you massage your face gently so as not to cause unnecessary abrasion.
• Avoid scrubbing your face in the morning. Instead, do this in the late evening or night, before going to bed. This will prevent any pollution from clogging your pores.

3. Use a toner on your face after cleansing:

Toners remove the last traces of make-up, dirt, oil and dead skin cells that you may have missed during cleansing.

• Apply the toner or astringent to your face and neck to ensure you have rid the skin of all make-up, dirt and excess oil.
• Those who have dry skin should use a toner.
• If you have oily skin, use an astringent that contains alcohol.

4. Finish off with a multi-tasking moisturizer:

This is the last part of the CTM routine and very important nonetheless.

• After you have applied the toner on your skin, follow it up with a moisturizer.
• Moisturizing is an essential step, as it helps to replenish lost natural oils and keeps your skin moist and supple.
• Moisturizing is also especially important if you have acne or oily skin.
• Those who have oily skin should also use a moisturizer as it helps balance out your skin.
• Choose a light gel, lotion or moisturizer instead of a cream.
• Go for an oil-free product to prevent your skin from looking or feeling greasy.

These simple steps should be made a part of your daily skin care routine. Cleansing toning and moisturizing, when combined together, act to cleanse your skin and protect it against damage and pollutants.

Follow this routine and get naturally glowing and healthy skin without overloading it with products.

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