Your first order of business:Take this quizto suss out what exactly is causing those pimples.
Next, see why everything, including your physiology (hormones!)
and lifestyle (skimping on sleep!
), can affect your skin.
Finally, find the right treatment for youand banish blemishes once and for all.
Learn exactly what happens when your complexion freaks out.
StressWhen you’re under the gun, the adrenal glands act up, releasing male hormones called androgens.
“It depends on your sensitivity to hormonal changes,” Dr. Downie explains.
Dairy may also stimulate breakouts.
Milk (even organic) contains hormones similar to zit-causing androgens.
Switch to Bluetooth and slip a bandanna under your helmet.
Massage in cleanser for at least 30 seconds to remove makeup completely.
Create a customized over-the-counter skin-care arsenal to target every trigger.
Pore prettifiersLook for products with salicylic acid to give pores a clean sweep.
Bacteria blitzers"Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most potent bacteria fighters available," Dr. Thiboutot says.
But it needs time to work its magic, so apply a leave-on cream nightly.
(Dab on DermaDoctor Ain’t Misbehavin' Medicated Emergency Acne Spot Treatment, $36.)
Aim the metal tip at your zit to hit the area with heat.
Redness erasersEase swelling and redness with a spot treatment that contains bacteria-banishing sulfur.
(Try Malin+Goetz Acne Treatment, $22.)
Apply a bit with a brush to avoid a cakey look.
If using OTC blemish fighters isn’t cutting it, try these Rx.
That’s a good thing because if oil doesn’t clog pores, bacteria can’t thrive.
Antiaging bonus: Retinoids stimulate collagen and exfoliate, so skin looks younger and brighter, too.
But in some women, the Pill can spark pimples merely by changing the balance of hormones.
To learn even more about the link between your health and your skin, go to Self.com/beauty.
For those with severe or cystic acne, however, these prescriptions can work wonders.
Photodynamic therapyIf you’d rather not pop a pill, ask about PDT.
Your doc applies a solution that cells within the oil glands then absorb, Dr. Taub says.
Worried about drying out your skin?
Your last red bump is goneyes!
But stopping treatments cold can cause oil and bacteria to build up again.
One caveat: If you’re on prescription acne meds, keep using as directed.
Photo Credit: Chris Craymer
