For many individuals who suffer from acne, their hormones have gone into overdrive, resulting in the overproduction of sebum. Sebum is normally important for lubricating the skin and hair, however, overproduction of the chemical can result in acne.

If you’re looking to control your acne, you can come in for a consultation or set a teledermatology appointment with your dermatologist, Dr. Patricia McCormack, of Staten Island, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ, and Linden, NJ. Meanwhile, here are acne basics you should keep in mind to help keep acne at bay.

The Acne Myth

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, one of the greatest myths about acne is that you should just let it run its course normally. Unfortunately, this is not the best advice to take for most people. Why? First off, some untreated acne will leave permanent dark spots and scars on your skin even after it clears. Likewise, treatments are readily available, so it would be a waste not to seek one out. Further, acne treatments shorten the cycle and minimize future eruptions and effective treatment will boost your self-confidence.

How to Manage Your Acne

Here are some practical tips that you can follow:

• Clean Your Face: Yes, even if you don’t have acne. Washing your face no more than twice a day removes dead skin cells, impurities, and excess oil from the surface. Use warm water and mild facial cleanser, but avoid using coarse-textured cloth or sponge. Rinse well and pat dry using a clean towel.
• Use Moisturizer: This helps balance out the drying effect produced by many acne products. Use a moisturizer specific to your skin.
• Spare the Makeup: This is especially true during breakouts. Skip using blush, foundation, or powder. If you need to wear makeup, make sure that you have oil-free ones that don’t have dyes, fragrances, or chemicals that could exacerbate your active acne.
• Choose Your Hair Products Wisely: As much as possible, keep away from those that contain oil, gels, fragrances, or oils. These can block the pores of your skin and cause irritation if your hair gets on your face. Opt for a gentle shampoo with conditioner and keep your long hair away from your face.
• Hands Off: People touch their faces an average of 19 times every hour. This is an easy way to get bacteria on your face as well as irritate your inflamed face. Tinkering with your acne can likewise cause scarring and infection.
• Opt for Skin-Friendly Foods: Avoid junk food and greasy foods that could aggravate your acne. Foods with processed sugar and dairy products may likewise act as triggers in certain people. Stick to vegetables, whole grains, and fresh fruits.

See Your Dermatologist

You should make an appointment with your dermatologist in Staten Island, Point Pleasant Beach, or Linden when:

• Your acne is uncontrollable.
• Over-the-counter medication doesn’t work for you.
• You want your acne problem to clear up faster.
• You have concerns about scarring.
• You want the best treatment for your acne condition.

Need Advice on Managing Your Acne? We Can Help

Arrange a visit or schedule a teledermatology/telemedicine appointment with our dermatologist, Dr. Patricia McCormack. You can reach our Point Pleasant Beach, NJ, office at (732) 295-1331, Linden, NJ, office at (908) 925-8877, or Staten Island, NY, office at (718) 698-1616.