the skinny on skin

The main things to keep your skin clear are as follows:

1. Cleanse: People tend to think that if they just apply medication, then their acne will go away. Cleansing is important because you are washing away the oil, dirt and makeup from the day off your skin. You are also prepping your skin for the next steps.

2. Exfoliate: Exfoliation often goes undone. Dead skin cells trap excess sebum and bacteria in your pores, creating a blemish. So exfoliation helps to slough off those dead skin cells to help the oil flow freely and allow your pores to open and breathe in order to kill the bacteria that is inside. People often use a toner or a scrub. Both are great, it depends on your preference. Toner is great for sweeping extra dirt and soap scum out of your pores, and also helps get rid of dead skin cells. Scrubs tend to help more with blackheads because you can work them into your pores instead of just rubbing it on.

3. Moisturize: Many people think they shouldn’t moisturize because it will “cause their zits to become more oily and won’t help them heal.” It is actually quite the opposite. Sebum (the oil produced by your skin) is what clogs your pores when there is too much of it. To help your skin to “think” it is moisturized, it is crucial to use an oil free moisturizer to slow down sebum production. Creams are generally better for those with dry skin, and gels for those with oilier skin. Again, it is preference.

4. Treat: Steps 3 and 4 can be switched if that’s what you like. Benzoyl Peroxide is one of the most effective acne treatments there are. However, tea tree oil (which is natural and won’t clog or dry your skin) works just as well. There are other acne medications, of course, but Benzoyl Peroxide is one of the more popular ones and always helps me. Apply to your fingertips and pat over your entire face to treat zits already there AND prevent new ones from coming. People often make the mistake of only treating the blemishes they have and then wondering why they got a new one the next day.

Other things that can help your skin:

1. Drink LOTS of water to help flush out toxins and hydrate your skin.

2. Exercise to help circulation and overall health. Also helps blood sugar (you will read about blood sugar and skin relationships below)

3. Eat well. High blood sugar affects hormones.  When hormones get higher, you get more zits. Also, fruits and vegetables have natural nutrients and antioxidants to to cleanse your insides which also leads to a clear face.

4. Sleep. Your skin repairs itself most when you sleep, so this is CRUCIAL.

5. Mud masks. I suggest doing this once or twice a week for extra exfoliation and to bring acne causing things closer to the surface for easier treatment.

6. Steamer. Face steamers are great and cheap. Once or twice a week, you can use this before doing your mask to open your pores, or before cleansing your face.

7. Good hygiene. ALWAYS WASH OUR HANDS. Your hands carry most of the bacteria on your body, and also touch your face the most. Showers everyday or every other day help too (preferably hot ones) and can be used to cleanse your face.

8. Green Tea. It has very powerful antioxidants to help clear acne. You can drink it or find it in many facial products.

9. Relax. Yoga reduces stress. Although stress does not CAUSE acne, it does make it worse.

10. BELIEVE. You must stick to ONE regimen for at least a month or two. Do not expect results immediately. You have to be religious in your routine (which means not changing it frequently or forgetting). Positivity is CRUCIAL. You must believe that you will achieve clear skin in order to get it!

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