6 Skin Care Mistakes That May Cause Acne
Acne is one of the most common skin concerns that so many people struggle with from their teenage years well into adulthood. While you may think it’s caused by hormonal changes, genetics, and diet, your skincare routine may also be causing or worsening your breakouts. Certain skin habits, products, or techniques can irritate the skin, clog pores, and cause acne. In this blog, we'll explore six common skincare mistakes that could be triggering your acne, so that you’re aware of the mistakes you may be making and can make adjustments to improve your skin routine and acne.
1. Over-Cleansing or Over-Exfoliating
Cleansing is key for keeping your skin clean and free from dirt, oil, and impurities. However, many people make the mistake of over-cleansing or scrubbing their skin too aggressively, thinking it will cleanse deeper. In reality, this can disrupt the skin's natural barrier. A damaged skin barrier can cause a multitude of issues beyond acne, such as overproduction of oil, skin dryness, or irritation.
Excessive cleansing or using harsh scrubs can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. As a response, the skin may produce more oil to compensate, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Over-cleansing can also cause redness, irritation, inflammation, and an increased risk of acne.
Solution: Wash your face twice daily—once in the morning and once before bed—with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser. Avoid abrasive scrubs or rough exfoliation, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Resurface Skin Polish - Start using once a week and gradually increase to avoid over exfoliation. Gently massage the scrub into your skin to avoid being too aggressive.
2. Using the Wrong Products for Your Skin Type
Not all skincare products are created equal- using the wrong products for your skin type can damage your complexion and worsen breakouts. For example, if you have oily or acne-prone skin and use products designed for dry skin, you could clog your pores, leading to more breakouts. Similarly, if you have dry skin and use products formulated for oily skin, you may experience irritation, dehydration, and a damaged skin barrier.
Using heavy creams, oils, or comedogenic (pore-clogging) products can also contribute to acne. Look for products labeled "non-comedogenic," meaning they are less likely to clog pores, especially if you have acne-prone skin. The key to a clear complexion is to tailor your skin routine to your specific skin type and skin needs!
Solution: Choose skincare products that are tailored to your specific skin type.
Balancing Toner - Balancing Toner removes any traces of dirt, oil and makeup and other surface impurities gently without damaging the skin or causing unnecessary dryness.
3. Skipping Moisturizer
One of the biggest misconceptions about acne is that you should avoid moisturizing if you have oily or acne-prone skin. In reality, skipping moisturizer can worsen acne and cause your skin to become dehydrated. When the skin lacks moisture, it produces excess oil to compensate, which can increase the likelihood of clogged pores and breakouts.
Even if you have oily skin, it’s essential to use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to maintain a healthy moisture balance.
Solution: Find a non-comedogenic moisturizer that suits your skin type. Gel-based moisturizers or those with ingredients like hyaluronic acid are often good choices for oily or acne-prone skin.
Ultra Light Moisturizer - This moisturizer is non-comedogenic and fragrance-free and it helps to restore and hydrate skin while also preserving the skin’s natural barrier.
4. Not Removing Makeup Properly
Leaving makeup on overnight is one of the worst mistakes you can make for your skin. Makeup can clog pores, trap oil and bacteria, and lead to acne. Even if you don’t wear heavy makeup, any residue left on your skin can contribute to breakouts.
Solution: Always double cleanse in the evening—start with an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup, sunscreen, and other impurities, and follow up with a gentle foaming or cream cleanser to remove any leftover residue. This ensures your skin is completely clean, reducing the risk of clogged pores.
Lytic Gel Cleanser - This cleanser effectively dissolves dirt, oil and makeup, and calms the visible appearance of irritated skin without over-drying or leaving the skin feeling tight or stripped of its natural oils.
Bio Gel Firm - A lightweight moisturizing hydrogel that helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, provides skin-plumping hydration and soothes skin after non-invasive cosmetic procedures.
5. Touching Your Face Frequently
It’s easy to fall into the habit of touching your face throughout the day, whether it's resting your chin in your hand, wiping your face with your sleeve, or constantly adjusting your glasses. Every time your hands come in contact with your face, you transfer dirt, oil, and bacteria from your hands to your skin, which can contribute to acne and irritation.
Solution: Try to break the habit of touching your face. If you wear glasses, clean them regularly to avoid transferring bacteria. Use a clean tissue if you need to touch your face for any reason. Breaking this habit is difficult, if you are struggling, use the Epionce Purifying or Balancing toner to spray on your face throughout the day to maintain cleanliness and balance.
Purifying Toner - A botanically formulated toner that helps remove traces of dirt, oil and makeup. It reduces surface shine while helping control factors that can lead to the visible appearance of problem or irritated skin.
Soothing Facial Rinse - This toner rids skin of bacteria and helps keep skin at its optimum pH levels. This product is for use in the morning and at night.
6. Overusing Acne Treatments
While it’s important to address acne with the right treatments, overuse can lead to irritation, excessive dryness, or peeling, which may make your acne worse. Many acne treatments, particularly those containing active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids, can be quite harsh if used too frequently. Overuse of these products can compromise the skin’s barrier, making it more vulnerable to breakouts and irritation.
Solution: Follow the instructions on your acne treatment products carefully. Start with a small amount and gradually increase as your skin adjusts. If you're unsure how to incorporate acne treatments into your routine, consult a dermatologist.
Purifying Spot Gel - This spot treatment targets stubborn acne blemishes and penetrates pores to control acne and help prevent new acne from forming.
Pore Purifying Clay Mask - A non-irritating product to help control acne, unclog pores and absorb excess oil. This mask also noticeably refines the appearance of pores and deeply cleanses skin, leaving it polished and smooth.
Conclusion
Achieving clear, healthy skin requires more than just finding the right acne treatment. It’s equally important to avoid skincare mistakes that can exacerbate breakouts. By adjusting your skincare routine to avoid over-cleansing, using the wrong products, neglecting moisture, or over-treating acne, you can promote clear skin and minimize the likelihood of future breakouts.Get your skin on the path to recovery and achieve the clear complexion you deserve!