These Skincare Mistakes Might Be Worsening Your Acne

People struggling with acne are always walking on eggshells. One little slip and you wake up with a zit! We know how frustrating it can get when you’re trying to do everything right, but your acne just won’t RIP. To fill all the loopholes and to build the bridge between you and clear skin, below we’ve listed 6 common skincare mistakes that might be triggering your acne. Read on! 

Mistake 1: You’re using too many actives together 

Yes, retinol, niacinamide, AHAs and BHAs are wonderful ingredients for your acne. But, are you making the rookie mistake of using them all at the same time? There is no shortcut to treating acne, so if you’re thinking more products = faster results, then stop, like NOW. Actives are really potent and should be used carefully. Loading up on them will actually damage your skin barrier, over-dry your skin and strip it of natural oils. 

Solution: Go slow, use one active at a time. Instead of layering an actives, use one in your AM skincare routine and one in the evening. Also, you don’t need to use them every day. Use AHA/BHA or retinol only 2-3 times every week. 

Mistake 2: You’re not paying attention to cleansing 

Cleansing is a very crucial step that most people goof up. And surely, picking up a face wash that reads, ‘anti-acne’ is not the right solution. Is the formulation good for your skin? Are the ingredients suiting you? There is a lot that goes into this step. Opt for a gel-based cleanser that has salicylic acid – this is a holy grail for acne-prone skin as it goes deep into skin to eliminate impurities and acne-causing bacteria. Our Chialeader Shine Control Gel Face Wash has salicylic acid + tea tree leaf oil that help combat acne. Also, keep in mind that you’re not over-washing your face. Cleansing it more than 2 times in a day, will in fact increase sebum production and worsen acne. 

Solution: Allow your cleanser to work on your skin. Washing it off too quickly will not reap any benefits. Splash your face with lukewarm water and massage the cleanser on your face and neck in circular motions. Do this for at least 1 minute, which allows the ingredients to activate. Then wash off thoroughly. 

Mistake 3: Not using a moisturizer or using a wrong moisturizer 

By now you should know better than not applying a moisturizer because you think it makes your skin extra greasy. If you’re holding on to that belief, then here’s an eye-opener: not applying a moisturizer in fact, triggers acne. There are lightweight, quick-absorbing moisturizers out there that will blend in beautifully without converting your face into an oil slick. 

Solution: Our Matcha Better Anti-Shine Moisturizer is loaded with hydrating ingredients that will nourish your skin and give it a matte finish! Using a moisturizer actually balances sebum production in your skin, thereby keeping it healthy and acne-free. Yup. No more excuses to skip moisturizer now, kay? 

Mistake #4: Self-diagnosing and relying on internet hacks

People always seem to have tips for reducing acne, ainnit? Your friends, nosey aunties and even the internet can give you a lot of unsolicited advice for treating acne. Although said in good faith, not everything should be trusted, because what worked for someone else might end up flaring up your acne. 

Solution: Opt for soothing skincare products that are proven to reduce acne or seek a dermat’s help. You can try our gentle yet effective acne-range to tackle pores, pimples and irritation. Going cray cray on DIY recipes that have little to no medical evidence can back-fire and make you regret your decision. 

Mistake #5: Not being careful with makeup 

Applying a heavy-duty concealer and foundation will surely cover up that zit, but proceed with caution. Ensure that your makeup is of really good quality and non-comedogenic, meaning, it won’t clog your pores. Or else, you’ll end up going in circles and add to the very problem you’re running from. Choked up pores are a nightmare for acne-prone skin as they can shoot up acne in no time. Also, never go to bed with your makeup on, no matter how tired you are. 

Solution: Instead of using makeup wipes, use the double-cleansing method to cleanse your face. Use our Mon Cherry Dirt Dissolving Cleansing Balm to melt away makeup and impurities and then follow it up with a gel-based cleanser for a squeaky clean face. 

Mistake #6: You’re skimping on sunscreen 

Sunscreen is for sun protection, right? Yes and no. No because in retrospect, it does a lot more than sun protection. Too much sun exposure can dry out your skin and increase the production of sebum, leaving you with a greasy face. Dirt, grime with increased sebum can easily increase your acne problem. 

Solution: Opt for a lightweight, gel-based sunscreen that does not weigh down your skin. Our Bravocado SPF 50+ PA++++ Sunscreen Gel has UV filters that keep the harmful rays at bay and keep your skin bouncy soft throughout the day. 

Do not fall prey to these malpractices, and get ready to embrace clean, clear and acne-free skin!

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