Understanding Acne: Effective At-Home Tips for Clearer Skin
Acne is more than a surface level concern - it often starts internally. As the skin is our largest organ, any internal imbalance can manifest itself as acne. The location of your acne can offer clues about underlying issues:
Forehead: Stress, digestive changes, or small intestine imbalances
Cheeks: Digestive upset, improper diet, or stomach imbalances
Chin: Cyclical breakouts, reproductive system disturbances, or hormonal imbalances
Creating healthy habits at home and improving conditions which are less favourable for bacteria are a great step for reducing acne and congestion. Here are a few steps you can take to fight internal and external acne triggers to reduce your changes of stimulating acne:
Start taking live probiotics (refrigerated) with at least 50 Billion CFU to balance your gut flora and heal your internal digestion.
Incorporate Omega 3 supplements to maintain healthy skin, balance oil production, improve hydration, calm breakouts, and minimize signs of aging.
Focus on healthy foods in your diet and restrict/eliminate processed foods and refined sugars.
Wash your pillow cases and bedsheets weekly. This helps to eliminate bad bacteria that can fester on the skin and create favourable conditions for acne. I recommend bamboo pillowcases for their breathability and gentle fabric.
Refrain from popping pimples, especially with your nails. This causes the bacteria to spread and stimulate more acne. If you absolutely must, use the pads of the fingers to create gentle pressure or use 2 cotton buds. If there is no release, leave it alone. Always wash your face afterwards and follow up with your skin regimen immediately.
While acids and bacteria-fighting products are important, overusing them can stress your skin and increase oil production. Incorporate hyaluronic acid and a proper moisturizer to reduce irritation, redness, and inflammation. I recommend the Halo-Ronic Serum and IglooMoist 24/7 Moisturizer from NOON Aesthetics.
Clean your phone screens regularly and keep your hands off your skin. Bacteria multiply over time which can have undesirable effects on the skin, like acne, when in contact. Maintaining good hygiene when it comes to your devices is crucial.
We come into contact with billions of bacteria from all over the place every single day. Not all of those bacteria are helpful when it comes to reducing acne so best practice is to get into better habits when it comes to your skin and reducing harmful acne bacteria.
Contrary to what you may have been told, using a cleanser in the morning is stripping your skin of its natural oils and healthy bacteria. Over-cleansing is a common mistake that can quickly attribute to acne, dehydration, dryness, and excess sebum production. If you are properly double-cleansing in the evening, a water-rinse in the morning followed by your skin regimen is sufficient. One of my top recommendations for cleansing is to use Clean Towels with water for a refreshing cleanse. These handy skin towels do not harbour bacteria, are extra soft, and conveniently disposable!
Remember, patience is key. Improving your skin takes time. Acne and bacteria develop gradually, therefore achieving clear skin requires patience. For more effective results, combine these at-home tips with professional treatments. At Meraki we offer facial treatments designed specifically towards the reduction of acne and healing of the skin microbiome. Opt for the Clarifying Facial or OxyGeneo Facial.
Our Clarifying Facial is tailored for acne-prone skin, designed to decongest pores, eliminate impurities, and hydrate sensitive skin. This 75-minute treatment includes double cleansing, steam to open pores, deep exfoliation, extensive extractions, and LED light therapy to reduce inflammation. A breakout-clearing acne mask calms active acne, while a customized HydroJelly mask provides hydration. The experience also features a relaxing décolleté, neck, and facial massage, concluding with professional tips for managing and preventing flare-ups. Ideal for achieving a clear, healthy, and radiant complexion, this facial addresses key acne-related concerns effectively.
OxyGeneo Balance provides a comprehensive cleansing experience for oily and acne-prone skin, utilizing activated Bamboo Charcoal to absorb impurities and rejuvenate troubled skin. This powerful ingredient draws out dirt, dead skin cells, sebum, bacteria, and toxins, balancing and mattifying the skin while clearing clogged pores. The treatment helps prevent acne outbreaks and supports overall skin health. Enriched with Vitamin C, it brightens the complexion and enhances radiance, while Mandelic Acid promotes gentle exfoliation, smoothing the skin's surface and improving uneven tone and texture.