Life
Everybody experiences blemishes at some point in their life. Though genetics might play a role in whether or not you're more prone to getting zits, no one is immune to breakouts. And if someone says they are, they're either lying or are some kind of aesthetically-gifted space alien. Even the most diligent and thorough skincare routine can't prevent a zit from popping up when you least want it to. So if you've tried your best and still wake up with clogged pores, it might be worth knowing about the surprising lifestyle habits that cause acne.
If you're anything like me, you've probably spent hours searching the internet for answers as to why you keep getting blemishes despite your best effort. Lord knows I have tried every scrub, cream, peel, and DIY treatment known to man in an effort to keep my complexion clear. But if you're unknowingly in the habit of engaging in certain activities which increase your likelihood of breaking out, then you might want to consider arming yourself with some dermatological knowledge. So if you've ever stared in the mirror, wondering why pimples continue to appear, then you should check out these surprising lifestyle habits that cause acne.
1
You Sleep On The Wrong Pillow
How can you possibly do anything to cause acne in your sleep? As it turns out, it's not so much about you as it is your choice in bedding. "Using a cotton or synthetic pillow case can absorb oils and bacteria from our hair and faces as you sleep and transfer them back to your skin night after night," wellness coach Leah Lesesne tells Romper. Consider switching to silk or washing your cases regularly.
2
You Don't Take Hair Care Into Account
As founder of Skin Care Ox and beauty expert Diane Elizabeth tells Romper, many hair products are not suitable for your skin. "These products contain alcohols, preservatives, waxes, and a host of other harsh ingredients that can clog pores and irritate the skin," she says. You might want to read the labels the next time you're in the hair care aisle.
3
You Wear Makeup While Exercising
"It's important to wash your face before you exercise," dermatologist Dr. Neal Schultz tells Romper. "When you wipe off your sweat, you unintentionally grind any makeup, oil, dirt, excess dead cells, etc. into pores, which can cause acne." So make sure to clean your skin before and after sweating up a storm.
4
You Eat "Inflammatory" Ingredients
In an interview with Romper, medical physician and founder of Osmosis Skincare Dr. Ben Johnson says you should, "reduce your intake of sugar, hydrogenated oils, sodium and synthetic flavorings where possible." Why is a change in your culinary habits an influence on your skin? "Inflammation, even internally, stimulates oil production and leads to acne," Johnson explains. Basically, if it's not good for you on the inside, it won't do you any good on the outside either.
5
You Reuse Exfoliating Poufs
I'll be the first to admit that I used to think I could scrub away my acne. But, as dermatologist Dr. Jen Haley tells Romper, "loofahs are loaded with bacteria and can implant infections into the skin." Consider using exfoliators that aren't porous and can be cleaned thoroughly.
6
You're Too Close To Your Tech
Pretty much everyone has a smartphone these days. That's why this tip is so important. "Holding your cell phone on your cheek lets grease mix with the germs already on the screen [which] can clog pores, trigger inflammation, and lead to acne," dermatologist Tsippora Shainhouse tells Romper. As simple spray of disinfectant can clear up your screen and your face.
7
You Use The Wrong Kind Of Oil
Coconut oil may do wonders for your teeth, health, and body, but it isn't ideal for your face. "Coconut oil is fine to use to moisturize the body, but it should not be used on the face," dermatologist Dr. Allison Arthur tells Romper. "Coconut oil is comedogenic, meaning that it can clog the pores. Clogged pores can lead to acne breakouts."
