Treating Acne - deeper than surface level

Treating acne involves a combination of proper skincare, lifestyle adjustments and most importantly - your commitment. Here are some tips to help manage and treat acne.

1. Maintain a Consistent Skincare Routine- Having a routine that you like and do every day is super important when it comes to reaching your goals. Keep it simple - a mild cleanser, an acne targeted treatment product, moisturizer and sunscreen.

2. Check In With Your Diet - Acne is best treated from both the inside and out, so opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limit dairy, sugar and always be mindful of shellfish and peanut butter as these foods can increase the androgen hormone that causes over production of oil. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water and stay away from electrolyte supplements and energy drinks.

3. Hands Off!! - Avoid picking and squeezing your acne. It can lead to scarring and further inflammation. Instead, try icing the breakouts for 5 minutes a day. You can also treat blemishes with spot treatments containing sulfur.

4. Making Lifestyle Changes-  Stress can be a major acne trigger! Getting 7-9 hours of sleep a night is crucial, and try as much as you can to manage your stress with yoga and/or meditation. Always check your products and makeup for pore clogging ingredients, change and wash your pillowcases weekly and remember to give your cellphone a nice wipe down.

5. Consult With a Professional - Finding what works best for you and your skin is sometimes left best to a professional. Schedule an appointment for a deep cleansing facial and/or chemical peel, as well as to get specific product recommendations.

Remember, everyone’s skin is different, so it may take some trial and error to find what works best for you. Consistency and patience are key in managing acne effectively. By combining these tips, you can create a comprehensive approach to manage and treat acne!