Pimples “pop up” at the worst times… before a date, a big meeting or that special occasion. We’ve been told time and time again that popping them is not the solution, but what about those other ‘fixes’ such as a dab of toothpaste or ice? We dish the dirt on the acne-solving myths and provide some advice on how to help stop those pimples (no popping required).
Myth: Toothpaste cures acne
Toothpaste dries out pimples, erasing them overnight, right? Wrong! Toothpaste contains a menthol ingredient (the one which gives our breath that minty taste after brushing) that can cause inflammation or itching and irritation when applied to the skin. While it kind of delivers on its promise by drying out the pimple, it can leave your skin dry, itchy and even flaky! Not ideal.
Myth: Sweating clears pores
Some sources suggest that sweating is great way to get rid of acne because it naturally clears pores of dirt, dead skin cells and excess oils. This can be true, however, if they are left sitting on the skin instead of being washed off, the pores remain just as clogged as they were before and often cause breakouts. Ensure when you finish your work out your first priority is hopping in that shower and washing off that grime.
Myth: Ice, ice baby
While ice is a great treatment for some conditions, acne isn’t one of them. It might make your pimple look less swollen or red but the results are short-lived and it won’t treat the crux of the problem or clear the skin. Icing your pimples or face for an extended period of time can lead to more skin woes such as redness, dilated blood vessels and even rosacea.
Myth: Soak up the sun
It’s a common misconception that soaking up some rays will help dry out pimple spots and clear them. The sun can actually damage and weaken skin cells, making them more susceptible to bacteria making its way into the pores.
So, what can you do?
Swap the toothpaste for spot serum
Applying a specially-formulated spot serum before bed can visibly improve the appearance of pimples as well as sooth any discomfort they might cause. Our go to is Balense Spot Control Serum.
Don’t skip the shower post-workout
Skipping that post-workout shower can seem like a great time save, but it isn’t good for your skin. Showering and washing your face daily will not only refresh your skin, but also limit the chance for dirt and oil to build up in your pores. This will reduce breakouts and keep your skin looking fresh and healthy.
Change your sheets and PJ’s regularly
A lot of bacteria from our skin can build up on our sheets and pillow cases… even in our PJs! Every night while we sleep our bodies shed oil and dead skin cells and bacteria continues to grow even after we get out of bed. When we hit the sack the next night, we’re lying in this bacteria and exposing our skin to built up oil and dirt. Washing your sheets and PJs regularly will help keep this nasty bacteria away!
Exfoliate, baby
It’s one thing to simply wash with warm water and soap, but by regularly and gently exfoliating your skin at home will wash away stubborn oils and dead skin cells. This allows the soap to reach within the pores and clean them out more easily. Add to this routine a monthly microdermabrasion and your skin will be spotless in no time!
