First and foremost, we want to make it clear that acne is not caused by inadequate cleaning or hygiene. It is a hormonally driven process. However, appropriate cleansing of the skin and other affiliated measures can help manage acne. Periodic cleansing of the skin is one of the cornerstones in acne management. This helps remove excess oil, bacteria, and any residual medication or other products on the skin. But what about other hygiene measures that can make acne better? We want to give you some quick and easy personal skin care tips to help with your acne.
Acne Personal Skin Care
When it comes to cleaning frequency, you should wash any areas with acne at least once daily. For the face, we recommend this twice daily. One of the major contributing problems making acne worse is excess oil production from the oil glands. These oil glands are otherwise known as sebaceous glands, in the skin. Periodic cleaning helps remove excess oils, improving the overall appearance.
Cleansing Frequency
When it comes to cleaning frequency, you should wash any areas with acne at least once daily. For the face, we recommend cleansing twice daily. One of the major contributing problems making acne worse is excess oil production from the oil glands, also known as sebaceous glands. Periodic cleaning helps remove excess oils, improving the overall appearance.
Choosing the Right Cleansers for Acne
The stores are filled with a myriad of cleansers marketed specifically for acne. Some cleansers include medication, while others do not. The best dermatologists know when it is appropriate to start a medicated cleanser containing benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide can help acne in many ways, including reducing oil production, removing excess oil, breaking up microscopic plugs in the pores, and reducing inflammation. Aside from dryness and rare allergic reactions, its only other problematic effect is bleaching fabrics. For this reason, we recommend patients not use their best washcloths and thoroughly rinse any excess medication off the skin. We primarily recommend CeraVe Foaming 4% benzoyl peroxide cleanser or Panoxyl 10% benzoyl peroxide foaming cleanser.
Dermatologist Recommended Face Cleansers
In almost all other cases, the primary cleansers we recommend are Dove bar soap, Cetaphil Foaming Cleanser, and CeraVe Foaming Cleanser. For the face, lather the affected area with soap and water for 20 to 30 seconds, then use a soft washcloth soaked in warm water to rinse the face multiple times. Ring out your washcloth after using the water to rinse your face 2 to 3 times, then repeat with the other side of the washcloth. This will leave your facial skin feeling refreshed and cleansed of excess oils and any leftover acne face wash medication.
Additional Personal Skin Care Tips for Acne
Bedding and Pillowcases
As noted, most people with acne have excess oil production. During sleep, this oil can easily transfer to bed linens and gradually build up over time. As we sleep, the oil may transfer back to our skin, causing worsening acne. For this reason, we recommend changing your bedding with clean, fresh bed linens weekly. This is especially important for those who sleep on their side or belly, as they have more facial contact with their pillowcase.
Skin Care Products
Skincare products, including sunscreen, other creams and ointments, and make-up, may worsen acne through the plugging of pores. We recommend washing off products like make-up and sunscreen once they are no longer necessary during the day. Avoid sleeping with these products on the skin overnight unless they are specifically medicated for acne.
Hair Care and Acne
common question we get asked by parents of our younger patients is whether hair can make acne worse. Hair follicles in the scalp have robust and active oil glands, especially in teens with acne. If hair is kept relatively clean by shampooing daily to every other day and minimal hair care products such as hairspray and hair gels are used, this should not be an issue. Thicker gels or pomades are greasy by nature and could make acne worse.
Conclusion: Achieve Clearer Skin with Personalized Acne Care
We hope you find this synopsis of basic personal skincare measures helpful for managing your acne. All our dermatology providers have considerable experience treating this skin condition. If you need further assistance, reach out to us to schedule a consultation for your acne. We are here to help you and your loved ones have the healthiest and best-looking skin possible.
Additional Reading: 10 Skin Care Habits That Can Worsen Acne – American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD)
Advanced Dermatology of the Midlands | Best Dermatologist Omaha & Council Bluffs, IA | Board Certified Dermatologists
At Advanced Dermatology of the Midlands, our vision is to deliver the highest level of dermatological care, using the most advanced technology and evidence-based medicine in a personalized and compassionate environment. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
