We can all be a little bit vain (some more than others!) when it comes to our appearance.
And now with more people spending more time than ever before staring at their faces on computer screens in online work meetings, it's hard not to notice the 'imperfections' that may bother us.
These are the common causes of skin blemishes and and how to prevent them.
- Stub out that cigarette
Smoking can do real damage to your skin. It’s dehydrating, causes early wrinkles and tissue damage. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, inhibiting blood flow and oxygen to the cells and causing skin to lose its healthy glow. It also causes collagen to break down, making skin wrinkle and blemish.
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- Pollution
Living in an environment where there’s a lot of dust can irritate the skin.
- Don’t stay in the sun too long
Excessive exposure to the sun can damage your skin, causing premature ageing and cancer.
- Be careful around household detergents
The chemicals in items like air fresheners and bleach can irritate the skin.
- The effect of meds
Certain medications can cause acne as a side effect.
- Eat the right food
Drink lots of water to keep your skin hydrated and remember your diet can have a negative effect on your skin.
Visit your nearest dermatologist and think back if there may be a link between what you’ve eaten and the condition of your skin.
- Keep calm
Stress can wreak havoc on your body, especially your skin, resulting in various dermatological ailments, like acne.
- You’re born with it
Some people are just more prone to blemishes such as acne because it’s in their genes.
- Infections
Bacterial and viral infections can also cause blemishes, for for example cold sores and chickenpox.
Treatments
The older we get, the more we need to perfect our skincare regimens. If you don't already have one, these are the basic steps your routine should ideally cover.
- Cleanse
Wash your face with lukewarm water twice a day to remove dead skin cells, oil buildup, makeup and impurities.
- Tone
This helps balance the pH level of your skin. It creates a barrier that helps protect skin against blemishes. Steer clear of toners with alcohol because they can dry out the skin.
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- Exfoliate
Use a scrub once a week if you have sensitive skin, otherwise twice a week. Skip it if you have eczema or psoriasis.
- Masks
Deep-cleaning masks, especially those with charcoal, can help prevent acne. If you have acne-prone skin, apply a mask twice a week.
- Serums
Apply before a moisturiser, twice a day. Some serums can make skin more sensitive to the sun, so always apply sunscreen.
- Moisturise
Even if you have oily skin, moisturise it every day. Use a cream moisturiser for dry skin and an alcohol-free one for sensitive skin.
Professional treatments
For more severe cases, see a dermatologist or visit an aesthetic clinic. There are several treatments that can help with blemishes, says Dr Nandipha Magudumana from Optimum Medical Aesthetic Solutions.
“The most common treatments we offer are chemical or herbal peels. With more severe blemishes we start off with peels, then move on to drips, microneedling or oxygen facials. These are all non-invasive treatments.”
Turmeric
This spice has long been used to treat several ailments. It also reduces unwanted pigmentation and leaves the skin glowing.
Add 30ml (2T) ground turmeric to milk and mix into a paste. Apply the paste on your face, leave for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
Lemon and cucumber water
This is a simple and effective treatment. Lemon has a soothing and astringent effect and cucumber acts as a coolant.
Add lemon and cucumber slices to a bowl of water. Set aside at room temperature for a few hours. Then use it to wash your face.
