In our last post,
we introduced the first set of lifestyle changes that you will need to achieve
clear skin. In this post, we will go over the last 4 changes you need to make
in your everyday program to keep your pores clean and skin clear. We urge you
to start practicing these habits every day, as soon as possible - but we do
warn you that these lifestyle changes are not enough to clear your skin. You
also need to start a guided regimen of extractions and product use right away.
When you pair these lifestyle changes with our clearing program, you will
achieve clear skin.
1. Make sure
you are using the correct birth control.
While many people
assume that birth control will automatically clear your skin, the reality is
that many birth controls can actually cause your skin to break out. Overall, it
is best to avoid low-estrogen birth control pills. Please see our post on
Acne and Birth Control to learn more about the safest birth control methods
for acne sufferers. In general, we suggest staying away from IUD’s, implants and birth control shots.
Please consult our list of safe birth control methods before choosing your
pill.
2. Always,
always, always check the ingredients of your cosmetics.
If you suffer
from acne, you cannot use cosmetics OR hair products that contain pore-clogging
ingredients. Products that contain pore clogging ingredients will absolutely
make you break out. Please see our list of pore clogging ingredients and make
sure to check the products you are buying every time you purchase them.
3. Wear your
sunscreen!
While the best
way to keep your skin safe from the sun is to limit your exposure, we do
understand that sun exposure is just a part of life. Really though, the sun is
great and the best things happen outdoors, so if you can’t limit your time in the sun - make sure
to wear sunscreen every day. We ask you to do this because sun exposure damages
the follicle, causes hyper pigmentation, skin cancer and premature aging. Too much sun exposure can also
cause “solar acne” later in life. Acne sufferers also see
more breakouts in warm climates with heat and humidity.
4. Protect
your skin when you swim!
When swimming in
pools make sure to protect your skin with Aquaphor. Most pools will contain
Iodides and Chlorine because of their disinfectants. The Iodides and Chlorine
can remain in the water and cause breakouts for swimmers. If you protect your
skin with a layer of Aquaphor, you are less likely to breakout and irritate
your acne prone skin.
