Dermatologists Reveal The Biggest Acne Skincare Mistakes

 

The world of skincare can be overwhelming.

With the advancement of skincare technology, there are many new innovations promising phenomenal skincare results. Trending products in recent times include skincare acids, facial oils and retinoids. It may be daunting to get started and when we do, we may not end up selecting the right products for our unique skin conditions. In this article, we uncover the biggest skincare mistakes dermatologists see their patients make so you don’t have to go through them.

 

More Is Not Always Better

When you need to burn the midnight oil, you reach for an extra cup of coffee because a higher caffeine intake means you will stay up longer. You may think that is true for skincare. However, just like how too much caffeine can lead to side effects such as headaches, too much of a good thing in skincare can backfire.

Layering on more skincare products with potent acne-fighting ingredients does not necessarily heal your breakouts quicker. Your skin is in a state of irritation and too many powerful chemicals may exacerbate your blemishes. Dr Tiffany Jow Libby says, “I recommend patients to go the other way and taper back what they are using on their skin – go simple.” While it may be counterintuitive for most people, paring back your acne skincare routine to include just a gentle cleanser, acne treatment and lightweight moisturiser, gives your complexion time to rebalance and recover from the inflammation.

 

Not Cleansing Your Skin

While we may occasionally skip our usual cleansing regime believing our skin will be alright, you may be surprised by how many patients dermatologists see that do not stick to a proper cleansing regimen.

Our face is exposed to dirt, pollutants, acne-triggering bacteria and impurities all day. All these debris sit on our face the entire day so it is imperative that we use a thorough cleanser such as LumiPure Anti-Blemish Cleanser to rinse off all makeup and other residues. The key when it comes to cleansing is to choose a hydrating cleanser that does not dry out or strip your skin of its natural moisture and oils. Cleanse your skin at least twice daily, in the morning and evening, and after perspiring or exercising.

 

Do Not Ignore Your Neck & Body

Facial acne may affect most people at some point in life, individuals may experience breakouts on other parts of their body as well. Back acne, otherwise known as bacne, is a more common symptom than you think.

When pampering your face with your daily skincare routine, show some love to your neck and decolletage as well as they are just as susceptible to sun damage and signs of aging. Dr Fatima Fahs says, “Major steps to consider doing to this area, in addition to your face, are exfoliating, moisturising, and applying Vitamin C and sunscreen.”

If you tend to have pimples on your back or other parts of your body, using an exfoliating body wash with nourishing ingredients can prevent pores from becoming clogged by dead skin cells and keep your body optimally hydrated so as to prevent acne.

 

Harsh Exfoliation

So you think dead skin cells build-up could be the cause for your acne?

Before you dive wholeheartedly into scrubbing your face clean, bear in mind that over-exfoliating can just as easily trigger breakouts. Your skin does not need to feel squeaky clean to actually be free of harmful bacteria and other residues. Physical scrubs such as those formulated with crushed walnut shells cause micro-tears which allow bacteria to penetrate. In addition, such micro-damage to your complexion speeds up the aging process.  

Instead, choose chemical exfoliators that are gentle yet effective at breaking down dead skin cells and stimulating cellular turnover. Dr Lindsey Zubritsky Pollock says, “I recommend finding products containing Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, or Salicylic Acid.” Our must-have LumiGlow Fruit-Derived AHA Exfoliant is developed with fruit-derived acids including Glycolic Acid, Citric Acid, Lactic Acid and Ascorbic Acid for a healthy rose glow.

 

Not Applying Or Wearing Insufficient SPF

Just like how we are exposed to environmental pollutants all day, our skin is vulnerable to damage caused by UV rays when we go about our daily routine. Not wearing sunscreen increases our risk of being diagnosed with skin cancer and expedites the aging process.

Moreover, wearing insufficient sun protection is another cause for concern. Just because the face makeup product you use claims to contain SPF protection, does not mean that you are wearing enough. You need to use at least 5 – 10 times the normal amount of facial makeup to get to the level of SPF protection listed on the product. Always use a separate sunscreen prior to makeup with at least SPF 30 protection. Sunscreens formulated with Zinc Oxides or Titanium Oxide provide the best defence against sun rays.

 

Getting the basics of skincare right is the key to building an effective acne skincare routine. Navigating a complicated skincare world can be confusing but with these essential tips in mind, you will achieve blemish-free skin in no time.

 

Have a question on Lumipeau skincare or anything related to acne? Reach out to The Lumipeau Concierge via email at concierge@lumipeau.com or Whatsapp at 6338 8183 and the team will be glad to assist!

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