Acne is one of those things that can ruin your day. You wake up, look in the mirror, and there it is a big, red pimple right on the middle of your forehead. Or maybe you notice a couple of new zits when you’re putting on makeup for a night out.
Whatever the case, acne can definitely put a damper on your plans. Reports show that acne affects up to 50 million Americans each year. This can occur at any stage and usually starts in puberty. That’s because, during puberty, your body produces more hormones called androgens. These hormones increase oil production in your skin, leading to clogged pores and pimples.
The Mental and Emotional Anguish of Having Acne
When you have acne, you tend to always be conscious about your skin. You may even avoid social situations because you’re afraid people will stare at your pimples. This can lead to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and depression.
Acne can also be painful. Cysts and nodules are two types of pimples that can cause pain. Cysts are large, pus-filled pimples that can be very tender to the touch. Nodules are also large pimples, but they’re harder and don’t usually have pus.
Acne may be a physical condition, but it can also seriously impact your mental and emotional health. In fact, acne can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. One study found that people with acne have a 63% higher risk for depression one year after the diagnosis.
It’s not just the occasional pimple that can affect your mood. Acne can be a chronic condition that causes breakouts all over your face and body. This can be highly frustrating, especially if you’ve tried every treatment imaginable with no results.
Tips To Help You Deal With Acne
Learning how to deal with acne’s physical, emotional, and mental anguish is crucial for managing the condition. Here are some tips:
Avoid Self-blame
It’s easy to blame yourself for your acne, but remember that you’re not responsible for it. Many factors can contribute to breakouts, including hormones, genetics, and certain medications. Sometimes, it’s not even clear what’s causing your acne.
This is why it pays to visit a dermatologist so you will have a professional to help you determine the cause of your acne. They can then start recommending the best course of treatment.
Learn to Love Skincare
If you have acne, chances are you already tried several skincare products in an attempt to clear your skin. And while it may seem like a never-ending battle, don’t give up yet!
The key is to find the right combination of products that work for you. This may take some trial and error, but finding a skincare routine that helps keep your skin clear is worth it.
Your dermatologist can also recommend products specifically designed for acne-prone skin. Be sure to stick to your acne treatment plan and be patient. Remember that the best results won’t appear overnight.
Use Makeup Wisely
Makeup can be a great way to cover up your acne. But if you’re not careful, it can also make your breakouts worse. To avoid this, look for non-comedogenic makeup products that won’t clog your pores. Thankfully, a wide variety of acne-safe makeup products exist on the market.
Sometimes you can’t go out without putting some makeup on your face. But if you can, it’s best to let your skin breathe and give your acne treatment a chance to work. When you do need makeup, choose products formulated for acne-prone skin.
When looking for makeup, remember to consider not just the type of makeup that will match your skin tone but one that is also easy on your skin. Now, many brands cater to acne-prone consumers by formulating acne-safe makeup solutions. It would be better if you could find makeup solutions that also offer consultations with their acne experts to find out what best suits your skin.
Give Your Skin a Break
Acne can be very frustrating. But remember that your skin is sensitive and needs extra care. This means avoiding harsh treatments, such as scrubbing your skin with abrasive cleansers, picking at your pimples, and sleeping with your makeup on.
As much as possible, give your skin a break. Let it breathe, and avoid makeup when you are simply lounging at home. Take time to enjoy enough rest and sleep, and feed your skin with healthy food and drinks. Don’t forget to manage your stress levels, as this can also trigger acne breakouts.
Look at the Positive Side
Acne can be difficult to deal with, but remember that it’s only temporary. With the proper treatment, your acne will eventually clear up. In the meantime, try focusing on your life’s positive aspects. Spend time with loved ones, engage in activities you enjoy, and find other things to focus on besides your acne.
Remember that your acne does not define you. It’s just a tiny part of who you are. Don’t let it control your life. These tips will help you deal with acne and improve your quality of life.
