Your Guide To Breakout Prone Skin At Every Age

09 Dec 2021 11 min read

Breakouts are caused by a condition when the hair follicle becomes blocked with a build-up of skin cells and oil. Breakout comes in many forms, Blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. Breakouts can be caused by numerous issues, such as hormonal changes or imbalances, unhealthy diet, stress, excessive oil production, or poor skin hygiene.

Breakouts In Teenagers & Adults

Breakout is most common in teenagers and young adults around the time of puberty. Although the exact cause is still unknown it is believed to be due to hormones called Androgens. Androgens increase in teenagers during puberty. Androgens influence the skin's oil glands to increase in size and stimulate more sebum (oil) production. Areas that are often affected are, the face, neck back chest, and shoulders.

Teenage breakout is also often linked to their diet, with a link to dairy, processed foods, and lack of healthy nutritional veggies and fruit.

Other Contributing Factors: 

  • Cosmetics that are too oily or pore clogging
  • Friction caused by leaning on or rubbing the skin; harsh scrubbing
  • Picking or squeezing blemishes
  • Pressure from bike helmets, backpacks, or tight collars
  • Changing hormone levels in adolescent girls and adult women two to seven days before the start of the menstrual period
  • Stress

 

Our Top Tips To Help Control Your Skin

TIP: Don't over-wash or use harsh scrubs. Exfoliation is important and can be achieved with the right products for your skin. Look for ingredients like Lactic or Mandelic Acid and Salicylic Acid - these ingredients will effectively exfoliate the skin without overdoing it. Two gentle wash’s a day is enough, once in the morning and then a double cleanse at night – this will help to remove any daily make up and sunscreen, and any dirt or pollutants sitting on the skin’s surface.

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TIP: Use oil-free or non-comedogenic products (those that won't clog pores) on your face.

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TIP: Don't squeeze or pick blemishes. Popping pimples can drive acne bacteria deeper into the skin. Picking can lead to more inflammation and permanent scarring. Try using a spot treatment that will help to clear blemishes faster.

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Breakouts During Pregnancy

The main cause of breakout when you're pregnant is the increased hormone levels in the first trimester. The higher level boosts your skin's production of natural oils.

Managing breakouts when you're pregnant can be tricky. That's because many prescription and over-the-counter treatments contain ingredients that are not suitable for use during your pregnancy. In general, you should always consult with your doctor about what is suitable for you to use.

Pregnancy breakout is a natural condition that usually resolves after childbirth. So, the safest course of action is good skincare.

Our Top Tips To Help Control Your Skin

TIP: When you wash limit to twice a day, once in the morning, and double cleanse at night.

Product Suggestions:

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TIP: After washing, rinse your skin with lukewarm water. Then gently pat dry and apply serums and moisturiser suitable for during pregnancy.

Product Suggestions:

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It doesn’t stop with products!
Here are our top lifestyle changes that may help assist you on your skin journey…

  • Change your pillowcase and bath towel regularly – even try opting for a silk pillowcase (it will allow your skin to breathe at night and not steal any moisture)
  • Increase your veggie and fruit intake and stay hydrated with water every day.
  • Avoid highly processed and sugary food. Fresh is best.
  • Do not over exfoliate – give the skin time to heal and repair.
  • Do not touch or pick your breakouts.
  • Sanitise your mobile and desk phone if you sit at a desk daily.

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For a personalised recommendation according to your skin type and condition, it is always recommended to seek a full consultation from a trained AST skincare professional. Please find your nearest clinic here.