Acne isn’t because of neglecting to wash your face.
Other factors, like bacteria or changing hormones, cause this skin condition.
Yet regular cleansing is a key step in your acne treatment routine.
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There is such a thing as getting your skin “too clean,” though.
This article explains why and offers a few ways to protect your skin while keeping it clean.
It would help if you never usedrubbing alcoholon your face either.
Stronger isn’t always better.
Instead, choose a cleanser that leaves your skin feeling clean but not overly dry or stripped.
People with acne have skin cells that don’t shed away correctly.
They are more sensitive to irritation caused byCutibacterium acnes,anacne-causing bacteria.
Hormonesplay a role in whether you develop acne, too.
Acne is sparked by factors like bacteria and hormonesnot a dirty face.
Still, you should remove dirt and oil by washing your face morning and night with a gentle cleanser.
you’ve got the option to also break down the acid mantle.
This is a protective layer on the skin made up of sweat, oil, and good bacteria.
Healthy skin needs a strong, healthy acid mantle.
One exception to this?
A third cleansing in a dayisrecommended if you get particularly sweaty or dirty.
It can help to keep yourporesfrom being plugged up.
Still, water and a simple soap or face wash aren’t enough to clear up acne.
Think of your twice-daily cleansing as a first step in treating your acne.
Step two should be the routine use of an acne treatment product.
have a go at use them regularly for a few weeks to see if that helps clear things up.
Facial scrubs also may help.
These treatments include Differin (adapalene),Retin-A (tretinoin), and Tazorac (tazarotene).
Cleansing your face more than twice daily can irritate and degrade your skin’s natural protective layer.
Wash your face as advised, then follow up with an OTC or prescription acne treatment.
Twice a day is enough for most people unless you get sweaty or dirty.
Be sure to choose a product that won’t irritate your skin.
When you wash, avoid scrubbing too hard.
This can remove healthy oils, dry your skin, and make matters worse.
Cleansing should be part of an overall acne treatment program that also involves either an OTC or prescription medication.
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American Academy of Dermatology Association.Adult acne treatment dermatologists recommend.
American Academy of Dermatology.Face washing 101.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.Overview of acne.