Acne
Up to 80% of people will experience acne at some point during their lifetime. This concern can affect skin at any age, from adolescent to adult, and every skin type. Acne is caused by a number of factors, including pore congestion, excess oil production, hormonal fluctuations, bacteria and genetics. The good news is that it can be alleviated over time with results-driven skin care that keeps skin clear and healthy.
Salicylic acid and clay are two of the best ingredients to treat acne-prone skin and prevent future breakouts. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into pores to clear blockages and neutralize acne-causing bacteria. Clay works like a magnet, using its negatively charged particles to pull positively charged impurities from pores and the skin’s surface.
Watch the video below for a recommended routine to tackle acne and breakouts.
Redness
Sometimes confused with acne, rosacea often presents as inflammation and reddening on the nose, forehead, cheekbones or chin. Inflamed capillaries on the skin’s surface give skin a red, blotchy or bumpy appearance. While this condition is usually genetic, certain factors are known to aggravate it, including extreme temperatures, alcohol and sun exposure.
In addition to avoiding triggers, you can follow a sensitive skin care routine that employs gentle products free of harmful chemicals like added parabens, petrolatum, mineral oils, propylene glycol or sodium lauryl sulfate. Look for comforting ingredients like chamomile, calendula and stone crop which heal and soothe redness.
Large Pores
Large pores are another common skin concern. While pore size is largely determined by genetics, dead skin cell buildup, loss of elasticity and excess oil production can cause them to expand and enlarge. Large pores often accompany oily and combination skin types, which suffer from over-productive sebaceous glands
Regular cleansing and gentle exfoliation are essential steps for large pores. These actions remove sebum from the skin’s surface and relieve pore congestion, allowing pores to shrink to their normal size. Clay and charcoal masks are also beneficial, producing a gentle astringent action that tightens and minimizes pore openings.
Dehydration
Dehydrated skin is deficient in water. Hydration is essential for the skin to function optimally, and symptoms of dehydration can include itchiness, sensitivity, dullness and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Dehydrated skin can be caused by external elements, an unhealthy diet or poor lifestyle choices, all of which deplete the skin’s water content. All skin types — even oily — can suffer from dehydration.