Why You Might Be Breaking Out

written by ERICA DICK. August 28th, 2020

We talk endlessly on our blog about products and routines that clear acne and blemishes. But, we haven’t really gone into one of the more important steps in clearing your skin: habits! While it sometimes seems like all you need to do for glowing skin is to slather on benzoyl peroxide and call it a day, these common mishaps may also be getting in your way of achieving flawless skin. 

#1 You’re Touching Your Face

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again. Don’t. Touch. Your. Face. Your hands and nails have all kinds of crap built up on them and touching your face only spreads bacteria. Same goes for popping pimples or picking at scabs. Acne is essentially inflammation on your face. So all touching it will do is cause more inflamation and spread bacteria. Ew. 

#2 You’re Using Harsh Laundry Detergent

This one often goes unrecognized but is a huge culprit of acne. Scented and harsh detergents can leave fragrance and irritants on your clothes, towels and bedsheets. This can clog your pores and lead to breakouts simply from drying your face with a towel that was washed with harsh detergent. Opt for fragrance-free, sensitive detergent or pretty much anything that has the word “baby” on it. If it’s good enough for a baby’s ass, it’s good enough for your face.

#3 You’re Not Washing Things That Touch Your Face

Towels, pillowcases, headbands, makeup brushes – you name it. If it comes in contact with your face, try to wash it at least every other use. Dirt and debris are building up everywhere you turn and you don’t want that rubbing up on your skin. It may seem daunting to remember, but once you get in the habit of cleaning these things every day or two, you will absolutely notice a difference in your skin’s clarity. 

#4 You’re Skipping Washes

I will be the first to admit that quarantine has made me more than negligent of my skin routine. I often sleep until 12pm and don’t get around to washing my face until 4pm. I do the one wash in place of my morning and night routine and call it a day. The issue with this, however, is that you’re skipping a prime opportunity to put product on your skin. If you have chronic acne, like me, skipping just one layer of your serums can lead to unwanted breakouts and then hyperpigmentation later on. 

#5 You’re Not Adapting To Your Skin’s Needs

Although the beauty industry forces us to label our skin as oily, dry, aging etc. your skin is not just one thing. If you were never to wash it, it would get oily. Never moisturize? It will get dry. So if you’ve absolutely convinced yourself that you have an oily T-zone but see flaking and breakouts on your forehead, it’s okay to change up your routine a bit. You can mix up your products to fit what your skin needs in that moment. Even better, consult with your dermatologist about different things they recommend for when your skin seems a little out of the norm. 

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