The 5 Things That Might Be Breaking You Out

We’ve all heard the usual culprits blamed for causing acne: genetics, stress, chocolate, PMS, and oily skin. There are some things that you might be doing right now that seem harmless that might be preventing you from having clear skin.

1. Dirty pillow cases/sheets: It is important to change your pillow-cases often (I change mine every night). Sweat, oil, bacteria and the day’s filth are transported onto your pillow cases. Here is another tip, wash your linens with bleach to make sure all the pesky bacteria is killed.

2. Shampoo: You might have shiny soft hair due to your super moisturizing shampoo, which is great, but it might also be breaking you out. Try to steer away from moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. I find Herbal Essense non-moisturizing shampoos great. The worst shampoo for acne prone skin I have found to be Wen. If you do use conditioner make sure that you only put it in the area that will not be touching your face, so below the neck.

3. Hair styling products: Hairspray and gels that make your hair glossy, all of those sorts of things can clog your pores and cause you to break out.

4. Dirty make-up brushes/sponges: It is very important that you clean whatever you use to apply make-up with after each use or before each use. This is due to the bacteria that accumulates and then you spread all over your face. The easiest way to clean your brushes is to buy a small spray bottle and pour alcohol into it, and just spray your brushes after you are done. Also, wash your brushes once a week. If you don’t use brushes or sponges then wash your hands before touching your face.

5. Not moisturizing enough: Yep, you read that right. Even if you have oily skin it is important to moisturize everyday. That is because if your skin is not moisturized enough it will produce excess oil, causing breakouts. I recommend using a mattifying moisturizer, which won’t only moisturize but also prevent you from becoming oily during the day.

Do you know of any other obscure acne causing things? If you do comment below.

-JJ