Back-to-School Skincare Tips
One of the most common causes of acne is stress. As students enter the school year, stress can be high as families re-familiarize themselves with the routines that seemed so long ago. However, dermatologists want people to know there are ways to mitigate increased stress and how it affects your skin as the school year begins.
Self-Care to Start the School Year Off
One of the most essential things for skincare and mental health is setting aside time for self-care. Self-care looks different for everyone, but if you think about stress affecting the skin, if you can learn to handle stress with some self-care techniques, skincare may be easier than ever. Believe it or not, simple skincare can make people feel good about themselves, even if they are dealing with some stress acne at the beginning of the year. Sleep is another critical factor of good skincare. So, figuring out a solid sleep routine that involves reading a book instead of working towards one more level in your video game may be the relaxation your mind needs to get a good night’s rest. Sleep is when skin heals, so make sure to get enough of it!
Why Stress Causes Acne
Physical and mental stress can both trigger acne breakouts, and that is why it is not uncommon to see students with acne at the beginning of a new school year. Hormones are linked to acne, and stress causes hormones to respond, stimulating oil production in the skin and leading to breakouts. One stressful day isn’t likely going to cause terrible acne, but stress added to clogged pores and bacteria from changes in routine can increase the chances.
Managing Stress and Skincare
There are several things that people find helpful when managing life’s stressors and their skincare routines. The number one suggestion, which dermatologists agree, is routine. Skincare and scheduled routines are known to reduce stress. When it comes to skincare routines, please keep it simple, especially when adjusting to a new schedule. Find products that can be used without too much trouble, and that won’t be skipped on a late study or practice night.
Skincare Routines That Last
Skincare routines do not need to be difficult, but regardless of how elaborate your skincare routine is, everyone, and we mean everyone, should start the day with clean skin and sunscreen. Never skip cleaning skin before bed after a long day of sweat, dirt, and bacteria. In a pinch, use a one-and-done water-based cleanser and cotton balls so your skin gets much-needed rest and recovery through the night.
Blotting papers are a popular school year product because they store easily in a backpack or purse, and help control the excess oil your skin may be producing throughout the school day.
Use the Right Skincare Products
Scanning the skincare products shelves at the corner drug store can be overwhelming. It is essential to check the ingredients for anything harsh and stick with gentle products; acne cleansers and treatments often strip the skin and cause more severe reactions. If a person is struggling with acne, it is best to consult a professional dermatologist because topical treatments can quickly address acne and take the stress out of dealing with that this school year.
Skin Needs Sleep
Sleep can evade us the night before school starts or before a big test. However, sleep is a critical component of mental and physical health, linked to our skin’s health. Remember the term “beauty rest”? That is because our skin needs rest to recover and rejuvenate, so get plenty of sleep. Avoid devices just before bed because that can keep the brain buzzing longer than necessary and make sleep more difficult. Many claim that reading a book helps them relax and go to sleep.
Post Workout Rinse
Any students participating in sports or activities during or after school will be sweating. Whether mandatory physical education or varsity sports, sweat must come off the skin as soon as possible. Even if a water rinse-off is all you can muster, carry some lightweight moisturizer with sunscreen in your backpack and keep it simple. The most important thing is to get the dirt and grime off quickly and give your pores a deserved and needed break.
To avoid back acne, and arm acne, if you can’t shower, change out of sweaty clothes and shower when you get back home. Sitting in dirty and sweaty clothes can make anyone break out.
Starting a new school year is stressful enough. Taking care of your skin and finding healthy ways to unwind at the end of the day can help you get over those acne breakouts fast. Be patient, follow a simple skincare routine, and adjust as needed. Eat well, sleep well, and be well.
If you suffer from acne and would benefit from a dermatologist, contact Buckhead Dermatology in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Sherrie Straughn is an expert in acne-prone skin and can help clear up your skin and get the focus back on school!