Does Washing Your Face Prevent Acne?
What Acne Sufferers Need To Know About Face Washing
It used to be that people thought acne indicated a lack of hygiene. Then word spread that frequent face washing could actually aggravate acne and that hygiene had little to do with it. Now the importance of proper facial care is coming to the forefront of the acne battle again, which has many acne sufferers confused. What's the truth about face washing and acne? Here are some things to keep in mind.
Face Washing Does Have an Impact
Yes, washing your face does have an impact on your acne. If you don't wash your face enough, your pores can indeed clog and breakouts will occur. On the other hand, if you wash your face too much or do it the wrong way, that can be just as bad as not washing at all. The trick is in knowing when and how to wash.
Twice a Day Keeps the Dermatologist Away
In all honesty washing your face twice a day won't guarantee you clear skin, but it will help you keep your pores clear without aggravating or drying out your skin. Wash your face once in the morning and once at night, but make sure you do it the right way.
Face Wash Isn't Acne Medication
There are many facial washes on the market that contain acne medication. You're better off if you just use a gentle oil-free cleanser and then apply a medication after you have cleansed the skin. Why? Because you might be washing the medication off when you rinse the wash off your face and you might be "doubling up" and drying your skin out if you use a medicated face wash and a topical medication.
Bare Hands Work Best
When you do wash our face, use your bare hands and not a wash cloth. A wash cloth can irritate your skin, causing your pores to swell and clog. Wash your hands first, then use your hands to wash your face. You'll be much better off in the long run.
So while some may say that face-washing has nothing to do with acne, they're only half right. Surface dirt really won't cause acne breakouts, but improper face washing can and will aggravate an existing acne condition.