Does your 6-step skincare routine do nothing to cure your acne? If you've been battling pimples and breakouts to no avail, it might be time to look deeper. Maybe your unhealthy habits have caught up to you, or your facial cleanser is actually drying your skin.
Keep reading, and we'll tell you what you should do if you're still breaking out.
Key Takeaways: Why Is My Skincare Routine Not Working?
- Your skin is purging.
- Your diet consists of acne-causing foods.
- You are not properly applying or using your skincare arsenal.
- Your active ingredients need time to work.
- You have unideal skincare habits.
- You are experiencing hormonal changes.
See Related: Does Skincare Expire? When to Toss Your Products
First of All, What Is a Breakout?
Before we dive into the whys and hows, we need a clear-cut definition of what a "breakout" is.
During a breakout, your pores become loaded with dead skin cells, natural oils, and bacteria. This causes the gland to clog, leading to swelling, redness, and inflammation.
If a pore is clogged but there is no inflammation, it is a comedone, which can either be a whitehead or a blackhead. Pimples are formed when a hair follicle becomes clogged, leading to inflammation and redness.
Why Your Skincare Routine May Not Be Working
So, you get breakouts, but you follow a skincare routine. What gives? Isn't a skincare routine supposed to give you a clear and radiant complexion?
Before you toss out your collection of facial oils and cleansers, let's tell you why your skincare routine may not be working.
Bonus: 5 Benefits of Macadamia Oil for Your Skin
#1. Skin Purging
If you recently started a new acne treatment or skincare product, your skin could be purging. "Purging" happens when your skin reacts to a new treatment or formula, which often includes acne flare-ups or breakouts.
The best thing you can do is be patient. Easier said than done, but necessary if you want your skin to heal and strengthen.
#2. Diet
You are what you eat! This age-old saying may be overused, but it's true. Your diet can play a big part in your skin, including the appearance of acne.
Fried food, sugary treats, and dairy can all contribute to or cause acne. Try cutting out these types of foods to see if that solves your pimple problems.
#3. Skincare Products
You may think that your skincare routine is impeccable, but it could still be the cause of your acne. Remember - there's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all skincare product or beauty routine.
Here are the top 4 reasons why your skincare ritual is ineffective against your acne:
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Using too much product: Applying your skincare too much or too often can clog skin pores and throw off sebum production.
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Too little product: Not using enough skincare is the same as not using it at all!
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Ingredients: If you use a cleanser with drying ingredients or an acne treatment with harsh chemicals, it can worsen acne or lead to irritation. This can increase oil production and cause acne breakouts.
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Over-exfoliating or over-washing: Of course, you need to wash your face. But over-washing or over-exfoliating can strip your skin, removing natural oils and disrupting your skin barrier.
#4. Active Ingredients
A great way to treat current acne and prevent future breakouts is with an acne treatment. However, remember that your active ingredients need time to work their magic. Whether it's a spot treatment or an over-the-counter cream, be patient!
But if it takes more than 6 to 8 weeks to see an improvement, it could mean that it's not right for you. Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and benzoyl peroxide are all popular treatments, but they aren't a guaranteed fix.
#5. Skincare Habits
We've covered skincare products and active ingredients, but it's time to dive into skincare habits. Here are a few that can contribute to new breakouts or exacerbate existing acne:
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Don't pop your pimples. This will reduce inflammation and minimize acne-causing bacteria.
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Use warm water when washing your face. This can strip your skin and ruin your skin barrier.
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Pat dry your face. After washing your face, pat dry with a clean towel.
#6. Hormonal Changes
At any point in one's life, hormonal fluctuations can lead to changes in one's skin. During menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, it is more likely that you develop acne or other skin conditions.
The Bottom Line
Whether your skin type is sensitive skin or acne-prone skin, breakouts can be frustrating and challenging. A complete skincare routine and healthy lifestyle habits are the best way to prevent new blemishes and treat acne breakouts.
Keep Reading: What Is an Antioxidant Serum, and What Does It Do?
People Also Ask
Why Do I Still Have Acne When I Do Everything Right?
Beauty gurus and skincare influencers may claim that their "holy grail" product saved their skin, but it's not really that easy. Remember - everyone's skin is different, and yours requires unique care and attention.
Stubborn or persistent acne could be a sign of something more - beyond skincare products and beauty rituals. It could be your daily routine or wellness habits, so it's a good idea to start there.
Why Does My Acne Not Go Away With Skincare?
Skincare is not a be-all end-all. Yes, it can help with skin concerns like acne, premature aging, or redness, but it isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. If your acne or breakouts don't clear up with skincare, it could be time to revamp your skincare routine or change your wellness habits.
Why Do I Still Have Acne if I Clean My Face Every Day?
If you wash your face every day and still have acne, it could be because you are using drying or irritating products. Body washes or facial cleansers with harsh chemicals or drying ingredients can exacerbate or cause acne.
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