1. Change your pillowcase. Every night you deposit oils and bacteria on your pillowcase. To keep from “re-contaminating” skin and give your complexion the best possible chance, switch your pillowcase side every night. Use the first side the first night. Then flip over the pillow (or the pillowcase if the pillow has a top and a bottom) the next night. The following evening, turn your pillowcase inside out and sleep on the first side, flipping it over again the next night. This means that you’ll need to change your pillow case completely every four nights. If you have break outs on your back or other parts of your body, changing sheets frequently can help. Also use fragrance and dye free detergent – and skip fabric softener which coats the fabric and deposits on your skin.
2. Clean your glasses. If you wear glasses, clean the arms, or sides of the glasses, frequently, especially if you’re breaking out on your temples and/or scalp. (Carrying antibacterial wipes with you or keeping them in your desk can make this easier.) If you wear contacts, you’ll need to even more careful about touching your face.
3. Skip wash cloths and sponges. Don’t use a wash cloth if you can help it. If you really are devoted to using them, use a fresh washcloth every time you wash your face. Wash cloths and sponges harbor a great deal of bacteria that can make your skin worse. Even a clean wash cloth can cause problems as the fabric is covered with residues from detergent and fabric softener.
4. Switch shampoos. If you’re breaking out on your scalp and hair line, try a dandruff or medicated shampoo which can sometimes help clear bumps. Medicated shampoos can also ease the irritation and discomfort of acne in and around the hairline. It is also very important to keep your hair clean and your scalp soothed. Use a very gentle shampoo that’s labeled for everyday use and alternate it with your medicated shampoo. Hair products without fragrance and dyes can be especially helpful. Remember to wash your hair brushes and combs frequently (basically whenever you wash your hair) as well.
5. Wear gloves. Really. If you’re prone to touching or picking at your face at night while you’re asleep, wear cotton gloves to bed. Not only will this help you stop spreading bacteria, but your hands will be softer as well.
6. Keep tools clean. Keep your makeup sponges and brushes sanitized after every use. Using sponges to apply makeup can be challenging for the acne sufferer simply because they are hard to keep sterile. Use disposable products when possible and clean all implements and tools thoroughly.
7. Keep your hair off of your face. Though bangs and other hair styles that cover the face are frequently used to conceal acne, they can slow down the healing process by depositing oils and hair product residue onto the skin. If it all possible, keep hair away from your face.
8. Use sunscreen every day. This step frequently gets skipped because sunscreens can feel so heavy on acneic skin types. However, sun exposure
can darken “post inflammatory pigmentation” or what many people call “acne scars.” If you can’t find a lightweight, fragrance free sunscreen that appeals to you – another, slightly more expensive option is Freeze 24/7’s Ice Shield. A two-in-one face cleanser and sunscreen. It works much like a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner, depositing a light film of sunscreen as you rinse the cleanser off.
9. Know your enemy. Is your acne worse after eating certain foods? Does it get worse right before your period? Learn what makes your acne worse and try to avoid those triggers if you can. Keep a diary of when and where your acne is at its worst. Also give your body the tools it needs to fight infections of all kinds – eat foods that are high in antioxidants and stay away from processed foods. Green tea, fresh vegetables and fruits, lean fish, all contribute to your body’s antioxidant arsenal.
10. Wash your hands frequently and keep your fingernails clean using a good nail brush. This is the most important step in helping clear acne. Never, ever pick at your skin, even if it looks like it might help. When you’re out and about, use sanitizing wipes when you don’t have access to soap and water.
