Dealing with unpleasant acne can be both physically and mentally stressful. For some people, acne undermines their confidence. They should know that it's a natural occurrence and can be dealt with proper treatment.
“Cystic acne resembles boils, which turn the skin red and cause considerable pain. They usually begin on the face or in areas with excess oil and sweat, such as the corner of the nose or the forehead. Bacteria can easily grow there and cause cystic acne,” said Dr K Swarup, MBBS, MD, Skin & VD. Here are steps you can take to address and alleviate painful acne.
Clean Your Face Gently
As per Dr Swarup, avoid polluted areas and remove excess dirt and oil as soon as possible to prevent bacterial infection. It is advised to use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser to wash your face twice a day. Avoid harsh scrubbing, as it can irritate the skin and worsen acne.
Non-Comedogenic Products
Choose skincare and makeup products labelled as non-comedogenic, meaning they won't clog pores. This helps prevent further breakouts.
According to National Library of Medicine, the list of skin irritating ingredients are, isopropyl myristate and derivatives, such as, isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl isostearate, butyl stearate, isostearyl neopentanoate, myristyl myristate.
Moisturise Properly
Even if you have oily or acne-prone skin. As per American Academy of Dermatology Association, it is essential to use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser. Hydrated skin can better resist irritation.
Keep Your hands Off
Dermatologist advice to resist the urge to pick, squeeze, or pop acne lesions. This can lead to scarring, prolong healing, and introduce bacteria, making the situation worse.
Also read: From Clearing Acne to Exfoliation: Here's Why You Should Use Grapefruit For Your Skin
Warm Compress
Apply a warm compress to painful acne to reduce inflammation and promote drainage. Be gentle and avoid pressing too hard.
Birth Control Pills
For some women, hormonal acne can be managed with birth control pills, which regulate hormone levels and reduce breakouts. Dermatologists have been utilising birth control pills to treat women's acne for decades. According to the WebMD, only three medications have been approved by the FDA to treat acne.
Lifestyle Changes
Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. These factors can contribute to overall skin health.
Learn To Manage Stress
Stress can exacerbate acne. Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to help manage breakouts.
The Lancet study discovered that wounds, including acne, heal far more slowly when a person is stressed. Acne heals slowly, which means that pimples last longer and are more likely to worsen. It may also indicate that more acne is evident at the same time because each pimple takes longer to heal during a breakout.
Also read: Say Goodbye To Underarm Acne With These Easy and Natural Prevention Tips
Regular Dermatologist Visits
Schedule regular check-ups with a dermatologist to monitor your skin's progress and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
Managing painful acne involves a combination of consistent skincare practices, lifestyle adjustments, and, when needed, professional guidance. It's essential to be patient, as improvements may take time.
If your acne is causing discomfort or impacting your well-being, it is advised to seek advice from a dermatologist who can provide personalised recommendations and treatment options. Remember, clear and healthy skin is achievable with the right approach and care.