Habits That Could Be Causing Your Acne

While acne is famous for being a teenager’s concern, this frustrating condition can also occur in adulthood and take a toll on your confidence. However, in many cases, acne can be prevented or treated by simply changing the bad habits that cause it. Learn more about habits that could be causing your acne with Dr. Juan-Carlos Caballero at Warrenton Dermatology and Skin Therapy Center in Warrenton, VA.

What causes acne? 

While the true cause of acne is unknown, we do know that it occurs when the skin’s pores become blocked. This blockage happens when the skin’s sebaceous glands produce too much oil, which mixes with dead skin cells and clogs the pore. Bacteria grows in the clogged pore, causing a pimple to form.

Acne-Causing Habits

• Not moisturizing your skin: Dry skin actually stimulates the skin to produce more oil than usual to compensate. This oil mixes with skin cells and hair to cause blockages in the pore, causing acne. Use gentle products specifically for the facial skin and moisturize your face daily.
• Touching your face: The oils, dirt, and germs on your hands can irritate your facial skin to cause acne. Avoid touching your face with your hands unless you have just washed them.
• Not washing your bedding often: The oils from your face, hair, and skin rub onto your sheets and pillowcase the entire time you sleep. Be sure to change your pillowcase several times a week and use a fresh towel to dry your face after washing it.
• Not washing your makeup brushes: Makeup brushes and sponges are a prime breeding ground for bacteria. Be sure to wash them after each use to avoid spreading this bacteria onto your face.
• Not watching your diet: An unhealthy diet can cause acne. Try avoiding foods high in sugar and fat which will make your blood sugar levels spike and drop quickly.

Acne Treatment in Warrenton, VA

Special toners and cleansers and prescription scrubs and washes can help balance the level of oil your skin produces to lessen the appearance of acne. Treatments like microdermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing, and photorejuvenation help lessen the appearance of discolorations or scarring once acne has been treated. Dr. Caballero can help you determine the best routine for your skin.

For more information about acne and its treatment, please contact Dr. Caballero at Warrenton Dermatology and Skin Therapy Center in Warrenton, VA. Call (540) 341-1900 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Caballero today!