Acne Not Just in the Teenage Years: Its Causes and Daily Facial Care Routine
Although pimples are usually associated with adolescence, the truth is that men and women of all ages are increasingly experiencing them. Doctors explain that during puberty, immunity weakens, as it does in women before menstruation, with the result that our bodies are no longer able to fight bacterial inflammation in the deeper layers of the skin – as a result, pimples appear, indicating health problems. Unfortunately, this problem can also arise later in life.
Hormonal imbalance, allergies, improper skin care – what lies behind these causes of acne and how can you help yourself?
However, before discussing this sensitive topic, it is important for some individuals to understand that the problems hidden within us manifest themselves in our most vulnerable area – just as some people struggle with pimples for many years, others complain of constant bloating, while still others may have no health complaints, but that does not mean such a person is completely healthy.
What we eat
Of course, the main factor contributing to the appearance of pimples and health problems is our diet. Nowadays, with such a wide choice of food, we often choose ready-made processed foods that no longer contain the nutrients so necessary for maintaining a healthy body. However, a balanced diet – is not all you need to know.
Foods with a high glycemic index (GI): simply put, this is food that causes a sudden rise in blood sugar, which can lead to increased insulin production while stimulating sebum production in the skin’s glands. Foods such as whole-grain bread, potatoes, white rice and other carbohydrates are considered high-GI foods.
Foods that are increasingly poorly tolerated: although dairy products have a low GI, unfortunately this food, like sugar and gluten, causes inflammation in the deeper layers of the skin.
Lack of unsaturated fatty acids: nowadays, almost everyone’s body is probably lacking healthy unsaturated fatty acids – omega-3, which have an anti-inflammatory effect. We also often obtain too many omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids from our food, so achieving a balance between these fatty acids is particularly important for healthy skin.
Stress and hormonal fluctuations
It is no secret that long-term stress is harmful to our health. In the case of acne, stress can also affect the appearance of pimples because it increases androgen production, which can lead to increased sebum production. Likewise, hormonal fluctuations, such as those during menstruation, pregnancy or menopause, can cause pimples to appear by stimulating the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. In addition, consuming large amounts of sugar and processed foods can worsen skin inflammation.
Improper facial skin care
It is not unusual to think that the appearance of pimples may be related to poor personal hygiene. However, this is not a common cause – more often, unsuitable facial care products and washing the skin too intensively can cause an allergic reaction and pimples. For example, coarse scrubs and highly drying products can seriously damage the skin’s protective barrier and once again stimulate sebum production. Likewise, some product ingredients clog pores and otherwise contribute to the formation of pimples.
Daily skin-care routine
In addition to making a great effort to take care of your diet and manage stress, we also recommend paying attention to the following facial-care routine.
1. Create a skin-care ritual that you enjoy and that motivates you to strive for healthy skin. For example, buy a new cosmetic mirror and, next to it, a pretty tray for your skin-care products. Look for not only classic mirrors, but also magnifying mirrors with LED lighting in the formadore online store, where carefully selected products stand out for their functionality, comfort and design.
2. Wash your face in the morning and evening to remove dirt and excess sebum. Choose a gentle cleanser with the most natural formulation possible to avoid potential allergic reactions.
3. Use a toner – this product will help balance the skin’s pH level and remove dirt or oil that may remain after cleansing. Choose a toner containing ingredients such as salicylic acid, which helps unclog pores and prevent breakouts.
4. Moisturize your face, even if you have oily skin: look for a lightweight face cream with hyaluronic acid or glycerin to help retain moisture.
5. Do not squeeze pimples or touch them with dirty hands. However, when a pimple has come to a head, clean the affected area with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid – these products help reduce inflammation and destroy the bacteria that cause pimples.
6. Finally, protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Look for SPF protection that does not feel heavy on the skin, and apply it every day, even on cloudy days.
7. Stay positive – even if you see your facial skin deteriorating in the mirror, do not give in to negative emotions, which can further worsen your skin’s condition. Instead, consult a dermatologist and a dietitian, and do not give up on your goal.
