5 Easy Life Changes to Combat Breakouts
If you’ve followed this blog for a while, you’ll know I’ve struggled with my skin for almost a decade. Although every day brings new challenges (if there is an acne scar cure that won’t cost me $1,000+, please let me know!), I do have some tried and true tips that help me fight those everyday pesky breakouts.
Change Your Pillowcase Once a Week
As crazy as it may sound, you need to wash or change your pillowcase once a week, or sooner if you’re able. Just think about it, if you fall asleep with greasy, sweaty hair the grease and sweat will be transferred directly onto your pillowcase and then onto your skin resulting in breakouts and clogged pores. Check out this Popsugar article to learn more.
Exfoliate Once a Week
According to Byrdie, there are two different types of exfoliators: chemical exfoliants (face scrubs & clay masks) and physical exfoliants (acid serums and peels). All humans lose about 40,000 cells a day, exfoliating your skin creates a glow by removing these cells to reveal a more youthful complexion that’s hidden below. I personally have been using Kate Somerville Exfolikate 1-2 times a week for the past two years. It's a tad pricy but worth every penny!
Take a Daily Probiotic
The majority of skin problems stem from an unhealthy gut. If you are not taking a daily probiotic, stop what you’re doing and order some right now. I’m not kidding, taking a daily probiotic is the single best thing I’ve ever done for my skin. The majority of skin conditions for adults stem from a negative dietary reaction or an unhealthy gut. A daily probiotic is a sure way to ensure your gut is healthy and not showing negative effects on your skin.
Remove All Your Makeup Before Bed
You’ve heard it before, but I’m going to say it again. If you do not remove all your makeup before bed, you are just asking for problematic skin. Your skin takes the time you're asleep to renew itself. According to Refinery 29, "Your skin goes through its most important regeneration process at night, shedding dead skin cells and cycling them out for new ones." All in all, makeup or makeup residue impedes this natural exfoliation process. I personally love to use the yes to coconut cleansing facial wipes to remove my makeup at the end of a long day, followed by my PMD Clean Pro RQ.
Wash Your Foundation Sponge Once a Week
I've always bought inexpensive makeup sponges from Target, so they really can only be washed a handful of times before they get nasty. I highly recommend buying a brush or sponge cleaner if you don't have one already, and vigilantly wash your sponges and brushes at least once a week. I personally wash my makeup brushes and makeup sponge every day, but I realize this isn't possible for everyone. Regardless if you wash your makeup sponge every day, or only once a week, you should be replacing your inexpensive makeup sponges at least once a month.