An Unlikely Cause Of Acne

Nobody likes an unsightly zit, but the skin condition can happen to anyone. Acne, pimples, and other breakouts occur when pores become clogged with dirt, bacteria, sebum, or dead skin cells. The result is usually blackheads, whiteheads, papules, or more painful cysts. There are several reasons for acne, but some ingredients in simple skincare products are an unlikely culprit. These 3 ingredients, in particular, may clog pores or cause inflammation.

1. Fatty carrier oils

Carrier oils are plant-based oils that mix with other essential oils to create butters, creams, balms, and lotions. These oils dilute the essential oils to help better penetrate the skin while softening and moisturizing. Some oils are occlusive, forming a protective barrier to lock in moisture. These thicker carrier oils include avocado, coconut, flax, cacao, and palm. Despite the benefits to dry, irritated skin, fatty carrier oils can clog pores when used in excess. Acne-prone, sensitive skin will especially see more breakouts than usual.

2. Coal tar

Coal tar is a by-product of burning coal, used in hundreds of products, including shampoos, lotions, and cosmetics. Doctors also recommend coal tar products to treat skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis. Coal tar has been labeled a carcinogen but is FDA-approved in trace amounts. However, long-term use can irritate the skin, cause rashes, and clog pores, leading to acne.

3. Alcohol and skincare

Alcohol is usually associated with drinking or perhaps cleaning products. However, alcohol comes in different forms and has many uses. Alcohol can clean the skin, make a product lighter, or act as a preservative. Skincare products like toners, cleansers, makeup, lotions, and shaving creams contain alcohol. This excess use leads to dryness and skin irritation, increasing the chances of acne. Common alcohol ingredients include stearyl, methanol, isopropyl alcohol, and benzyl alcohol.

An acne-free skincare routine

If breakouts are a constant occurrence, the issue could be in the skincare routine. Making some simple changes can reduce acne while keeping skin smooth and healthy. For starters, make sure to remove comedogenic products from the skincare routine. Comedogenic means the product has a possibility of clogging pores, which causes acne. Start the routine with a non-comedogenic cleanser and an optional toner. Then use a serum with products like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and non-comedogenic oils. Some of the best include squalane, sunflower, or hemp seed oil. Finish the skincare routine with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to reduce dryness and irritation.

Breakaway from breakouts

Staying acne-free can be a challenge. Some people cannot find the cause and could be continually frustrated and lose self-esteem. Even the best products tend to clog pores, so be careful. Read the ingredient list carefully for pore-clogging compounds. When in doubt, complete a test on a patch of skin and look for irritation. For added reassurance, run the skincare products by a dermatologist or pharmacist.