"How do I get rid of pimples?"

At some point in life most people usually experience one or a combination of breakouts, pimples, blemish or acne. It’s painful, sometimes itchy and surely hard to cover with makeup! Worst of all it leaves that dreaded blackhead when it finally goes down. Ok let’s put the facts in place before we discuss the solution.

What are the causes?

In very simple terms, it happens when your pores (tiny holes in your skin) gets blocked. Some people like to blame it on the following factors;

-Stress

- Change of environment

- Allergic reaction to a particular product

- Diet

- Hormonal changes

We like to blame it on a buildup of bacteria as a result of some simple things we do or forget to do.

What am I doing wrong?

1. Popping your pimples: the only time you need to touch your face is during your skin care routine or applying makeup (with clean fingers) any other time is compounding the problems as the bacteria will spread and make it worse.
2. Using facial cleansing Brushes: they are great to use especially to help open up your pores, however if you have pimples your skin is inflamed, any vigorous scrubbing will irritate the inflammation and won’t make it any better.
3. Using too many products at a time: it takes the skin about 4weeks to rejuvenate. Be patient with your skincare. Using too many products that do the same thing makes it difficult for you to know which one actually works for your skin type.
4. Using harsh creams: products that promise to whiten or lighten your skin will probably do so initially but in the long run, damage your skin in more ways than you can imagine.

How can I make it better?

1. Be gentle with your face, at this time try not to scrub your face till the inflammation settles. In the meantime make sure you are consistent with your routine; cleanse and moisturize your skin twice a day
2. Always take off your makeup with makeup removers or simple wipes before you begin your routine. Washing your face alone is not enough because your skin absorbs whatever you on it; so it is very important to ensure that all the dirt is completely taken off.
3. Cleansing is a very important process in your routine as it takes off any excess makeup or dirt that may be left and opens up your pores for your moisturizer.
4. There is no such thing as over moisturizing. Your skin needs moisture to stay hydrated and glow. You need to replace the lost moisture from the cleansing and washing. Always remember to choose moisturizers according to your skin type.
5. The skin on your face is more sensitive than the rest of your body and deserves special care. Try using a different towel especially for your face other than your bath towel.
6. Bacteria easily spreads and so it is important to change/wash your pillow covers very often to avoid a buildup of dirt and bacteria which could be spread to your face.
7. Check your diet, you may want to stay off sugar and groundnut oil for good. Try choosing healthier options like honey, extra virgin olive oil or canola oils for your cooking

What products should I be using?

Whatever product you decide to choose; whether its store bought or homemade always have the following in mind:

1. What works for someone else may not necessarily work for you. The key is choosing a product that works for your skin type.
2. If your skin is oily and more prone to blemish or acne, always look out for oil free ingredients rather than those that are for “all skin types”.
3. When choosing makeup always look for products that are “non-comedogenic” which means they won’t clog your pores.
4. The importance of drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day cannot be overemphasized. Its keeps your skin hydrated and gives you a natural glow.
5. Never leave the house without sunscreen. You need to protect your skin form the harsh rays of the sun; which usually causes sun burns, uneven skin tone, and dullness amongst other things.
6. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables go a long way in improving the quality of your skin. Ok guys, so we have touched on a little bit of hygiene which will be the starting point for getting rid of these horrid skin concerns. Next week, we look at some ingredients that you probably have in your kitchen cupboards that are amazing for your skin. Till then... remember: flawless makeup starts with a healthy skin!