Acne Fighting Trends to Avoid!

These are trends you definately want to avoid:

1.  Toothpaste! I think we can admit those of us with acne have tried this at least once. A little dot of toothpaste on an acne area is supposed to help with inflammation. The reason toothpaste used to be used for this treatment was because it contained an element called Triclosan which has antibacterial properties. The issue now is that the FDA has removed that element from toothpaste, making this trend no longer effective.
2. Applying raw potato slices to the face? Yes you read that right. Potatoes contain Salicylic Acid which is a common ingredient found in your skincare products. However, they also contain generous amounts of starch which can dry the face making it more vulnerable to acne breakouts. 
3. Rubbing alcohol on your face. By applying rubbing alcohol to your skin it my actually make your acne worse! When your skin is excessivly dried out, your sebaceous glands respond by producing more oil causing unintentional acne breakouts. Alcohol can also cause more irritation to the already red, inflamed areas and lead to HYPERPIGMENTATION especially in darker skinned individuals. 
4. Applying lemon juice to the skin can cause damage to your skins natural protective barrior. Since lemon juice has a high acidic pH at 2, this can cause your skin to become irritated, sensitive, and can also lead to hyperpigmentation. 
5. Aspirin. A common trend lately is applying crushed up aspirin to acne areas to help reduce inflammation. While this may work, it does not help acne long term. If you are looking for a more consistent and permanent solution to acne, it is best to consult with a Board Certified Dermatologist. 

Here are some natural remedies you can try instead!

Ice Roller- So simple and so convenient. Ice is great to help to reduce inflammation and even help de-puff the skin. 

Turmeric-This spice is a great source of antioxidants and contains many anti-inflammatory properties making it great to make into a face mask. Turmeric is also great for reviving your skin and gaining back a natural glow! 

Green Tea- When used topically, green tea can help reduce the amount of sebum that your skin produces. It is also known to have natural antioxidants and fights inflammation. 

Omega 3- Found in many foods, Omega 3 fatty acids can regulate the skin’s oil production, improve balance hydration, subdue breakouts and reduce the signs of aging. 

Rose Hip Oil- Benefits of this natural oil are that it contains vitamin E, D, and Pro vitamin A. Because this oil contains vitamin E it has anti-inflammatory properties. This oil can also help prevent signs of aging and it contains essential fatty acids that the skin needs. 

If you have any questions on whether you think a skincare trend is worth trying, please call us today to talk to our amazing dermatologist Dr. Mayha Patel!

(805) 491-5992

Author

Dr. Mayha Patel Dr. Patel diagnoses conditions affecting the hair, skin, and nails, which often have a large impact on your self-image and confidence. Using exams, blood tests, biopsies, and other approaches, Dr. Patel frequently diagnoses eczema, psoriasis, alopecia, acne, and various types of skin cancer creating an individualized treatment plan with each patient’s needs in mind. In addition, as a board-certified dermatologist Dr. Patel has extensive cosmetic dermatology experience and knowledge in numerous state of the art interventional procedures in cosmetic dermatology such as botox®, fillers, microneedling, kybella, and thread lifts. Dr. Patel also specializes in facial contouring, concierge cosmetics, and laser based procedures. Dr. Patel frequently uses her dual wavelength laser system for treatment, as well as UV light therapies, prescription medications, and topical products with proven results.