Clear, blemish free and even looking skin is the ultimate skin goals. however, achieving the naturally airbrushed look takes dedication and a proper skincare routine, especially if you're having to wear a mask at the moment. With none of us being immune to the occasional blemish or two and adult acne on the rise, we have put together the ultimate dos and don'ts for creating and maintaining clear skin.
DO
Cleanse
To keep your face free from bacteria, build up and dirt, wash your face twice a day using a gentle cleanser. Cleansing not only removes any makeup and dirt, but also eliminates excess oil and allows your other skincare treatments to reach the pores, making them more effective in keeping the blemishes at bay. For acne-prone skin, opt for a cleanser that contains active ingredients to help fight the build up of bacteria such as the Dermalogica Clear Start Breakout Clearing Foaming Wash. The calming cleanser is formulated with Lavender and Camellia that helps keep the skin soothed, whilst anti-microbial Tea Tree works to reduce inflammation and redness, both reducing existing spots and preventing new ones from forming.
Alternatively, the Ren Clean Skincare Clarifying Clay Cleanser uses Kaolin Clay that helps to draw impurities out from the pores as well as removing excess oils without stripping moisture. The Willow Bark Extract in the formula helps to reduce the appearance of pores, keeping the skin looking smooth and clear.
Exfoliate
As well as cleansing, to maintain clear skin, exfoliate 1-2 times per week. This helps to remove any dirt and build up that may be blocking the pores and can cause new breakouts, as well as removing any dead skin cells on the face which can also clog pores and make the complexion look dull and dry. If you prefer the traditional scrubbing method, use a cleansing brush or scrub to clear out the pores gently and effectively. The Frank Body Original Face Scrub contains Kaolin clay to eliminate bacteria and coffee, that acts as a natural physical exfoliant on the skin.
If you have more sensitive skin, opt for a chemical cleanser containing Salicylic Acid such as the INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser. Highly effective in treating blemish-prone skin, the Salicylic Acid helps to lift impurities from the pores and reduce oil proception for a clearer complexion. The formula contains allantoin that helps to keep the skin soothed and calm and supports the natural barrier to protect against aggressors.
Moisturise
Though you may be tempted to cut down on the moisturiser during a breakout to prevent further clogging pores, this is an important step that should never be skipped! When the skin becomes dry it is more likely to produce more oil to keep itself hydrated which can make matters worse. To keep your complexion supported without adding to your breakouts or blocking pores, use an oil-free moisturiser containing hyaluronic acid like the GLAMGLOW Superwatergel Triple-Acid Oil-Free Moisturiser. The multi-tasking moisturiser is lightweight and instantly hydrates the skin using Hyaluronic Acid to plump the complexion and keep the skin's natural barrier supported. The moisturiser also contains a Triple Acid Blend of Salicylic, Glycolic and Pyruvic Acids that help to control oil levels and prevent against breakouts, keeping the pores clear and minimised.
Use an acne cream
Specially formulated for spots, an acne treatment or blemish cream is a targeted formula that helps to reduce existing blemishes quickly and reduce both swelling and bacteria build up. DCL Skincare Spot Therapy is ideal for anyone with blocked pores; the formula contains 2% Salicylic Acid that works to unclog the pores as well as a mix of anti-septic and anti-stringent ingredients that work to reduce redness and oil and reduce the size of the blemish.
Don't
Use heavy makeup
Though you may want to load on the makeup to cover up blemishes, it's important to pick your products wisely to avoid making the problem worse. When looking for a foundation or concealer, look for products that are oil-free that won't clog pores but will still work to give you full coverage. Blended with kind to skin minerals, the bareMinerals Original Loose Mineral Foundation is a non-clogging formula that helps to eliminate excess shine. Alternatively, the Armani Luminous Silk Foundation is a lightweight and oil-free liquid formula that offers buildable coverage to conceal imperfections without aggravating them.
Just as important as picking the right foundation, the tools you apply your makeup with can have a huge impact on your complexion. Make sure that your brush or sponge is cleaned regularly to avoid bacteria build up that can spread to the face and cause additional blemishes.
Always make sure to remove your makeup at the end of the day or before a workout to prevent it getting into pores and clogging them. The Skin In Motion Ltd Clear IT Wipes help to effectively cleanse the complexion and control excess oil using Salicylic Acid and Pomegranate Enzymes. Perfect for on the go, the wipes also contain Aloe Vera that helps to keep the skin hydrated and soothed.
Pick at your skin
One you've probably heard growing up a million times; don't pick! Picking or squeezing your blemishes can not only cause scarring if not done properly, leaving you with a more permeant red mark, but is also likely to spread the bacteria from the spot as well as adding new bacteria from your hands; a recipe for more blemishes. Instead, stick to using your chosen acne treatment to gently reduce the size of the blemish as well as an effective exfoliator to clear out bacteria.
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