Before you needlessly torture your face with squeezing and scouring, know thine enemy! Here, surefire way to combat your complexions’ three biggest foes.
Enemy No. 1: STRESS
It’s no secret that you’re crazy, overwhelming life is taking a toll on you. In fact, it’s written all over your face. Stress can suppress your immune system and may trigger hormonal fluctuations that can lead to acne breakouts, dull skin or possibly even eczema or psoriasis flare-ups.
Best defense: In an ideal world, you could avoid these uglifying skin skirmishes by completely erasing your everyday stressors. But working your day-to-day life less chaotic is more realistic. Eat balance diet, get plenty of sleep and squeeze in at least three workouts a week. Save time on skin care with a multitasking retinol cream that may reduce acne, improve the appearance of dull skin and help erase sun damage. (If your skin is sensitive, you should consult your doctor before trying retinol). To fight stress-induced breakouts especially right before your period, use a satisfying-acid-base cleanser or toner that can help keep pores unplugged. Try any Anti-Acne Exfoliating Toner. But be gentle with your face! Over drying skin is one of the biggest mistakes acne-prone women make. “Zapping skin of moisture won’t get rid of acne. Keeping it hydrated will actually help acne lesions heal faster.” Instead of hanging your skin out to dry, keep it supple (without clogging pores) by using an oil free moisturizer. Try any Gel Moisturizer. To help soothe stress-SOS skin itchiness or irritation, wash with a mild moisturizing soar or nonsoap cleanser and keep skin hydrated with a rich, fragrance-free moisturizer. Try Daily Facial Moisturizer. Over-the-counter cortisone creams can help calm itching, but if the problem persists, see your dermatologist, she will determine whether you’re suffering from a more serious skin condition—such as seborrheic dermatitis, eczema or psoriasis—and prescribe tropical steroids.
