Mar 11
29
What Makes Acne Worse?
Stress And Acne
A high stress life and eviroment can contribute to acne in a big way. This is hard for some people to avoid. Below we have outlined 1 simple step to help minimize the stress in your life. Beyond this, always try to be aware of your stress level and be conscious of its effect on your skin and your body.
TIP: Breathe deeply at least 3 times per day. Most people only use a small portion of their lungs when they breathe. Breathing is one of our body’s primary ways to eliminate waste. 3 times per day, when you are feeling stressed, take 10 deep breaths, in through your nose and out through your mouth. Your stomach should expand with every in breath, not your chest. When doing this, it is best to close your eyes and focus on nothing but your breathing.
Cosmetics And Acne
Certain cosmetics can irritate or block the lining of the pore and can cause or aggravate acne. However, because the ingredients in cosmetics change so frequently – and in many cases the ingredients are not even listed on the product label – it really isn’t possible to provide you with a complete list of chemicals to avoid. But there are some major culprits, such as isopropyl myristate, acetylated lanolin alcohol, lauric acid and laureth-4 which are highly comedogenic. Watch out for high-tech terms which are irrelevant. ‘Hypoallergenic’ means that the make-up is less likely to cause an allergic reaction, not that it will not cause blackheads. Many make-ups now use the term ‘medicated’. This is also no guarantee thato they will not cause blackheads, and besides, as spots are not caused by germs lurking on the surface of the skin, such ‘medication’ is useless. There are some good, inexpensive make-ups available which are better, not because they are ‘medicated’ but because they are simply water-based and oil-free. You will probably find more non-comedogenic cosmetics coming on the market as time goes by, so look out for them and ask your ‘ chemist.
Menstrual Cycle and Acne
Acne on females often appears or gets worse from seven to fourteen days before their monthly period arrives. This is largely due to hormonal changes that occur at this time. Girls often crave chocolate during this time of the month, but if anything it is the hormonal changes, not the chocolate, that are responsible for the acne outbreaks. Some older girls may find that contraceptive pills which only contain the hormone progesterone (the ‘mini pill’) can also aggravate acne.
Hot Climates And Acne
Have you ever noticed acne outbreaks after taking a holiday in the sun? Hot climates can make acne worse, because sweating increases oil production. Saunas and steam rooms can have the same effect. It is extremely important to maintain a clean face when you’re in a hot climate.
