Diet
Problem: There is a link between a high sugar diet and acne. It probably doesn’t come as a surprise that sugary treats don’t do your skin any favours.
Solution: Sugary treats should be just that - a treat - and not something enjoyed on the daily. Switch that white bread and pasta for fibre-rich wholegrain varieties, reduce your overall sugar intake and add some skin-loving vitamins, minerals and omega 3 into your diet. Your skin will thank you!
Stress
Problem: Stress increases cortisol, which in turn increases oil production in the skin, which can make acne worse. The increased cortisol production can also cause sleeping problems, which makes our skin look even worse, because our skin usually regenerates during sleep.
Solution: In today’s society, stress is hard to avoid – that’s why it’s so important to schedule in some down time. A good idea is to spend some time in nature, which is known to reduce both physical and psychological stress levels. Doctor’s in the UK have actually started prescribing “nature” to their patients to reduce anxiety and increase happiness.
Smoking
Problem: Smoking is one of the main factors that cause blackheads and whiteheads in women over 25. Tobacco stimulates a chemical that influences sebum production and clogging of pores.
Solution: If you are a smoker, quitting is one of the best things that you can do for both your skin and your overall health. It may not be easy, but it will probably be worth it!
Humidity
Problem: Hot climates may be lovely, but many people experience a worsening of oily skin and clogged pores during the humid summer months.
Solution: What we can do? Use products that that reduce excess sebum production and prevent clogging - products containing salicylic acid are especially effective!
Skin Care
Problem: Many women over-cleanse and dry out their oily skin to deal with breakouts. What they don’t know is that this can increase oil production even more – which can lead to more clogged pores and breakouts! Oily skin may even be a symptom of dehydration – which means that drying the skin out even more is a really bad idea.
Solution: What your skin really needs is a cleanser that is both moisturising and gentle, leaving your skin happy and hydrated.
