Most people suffer from acne at some point in their lives.  Many remedies claim to fix dry skin or oily skin in a matter of a few simple steps.  What causes oily skin or dry skin may depend on your individual body chemistry and environment, but your skin may benefit from changing a few simple portions of your routine.  When it comes to skin, ignore the fads and consider how these skin are habits may be causing your acne.

Not Hydrating Enough

Hydration plays a major part in the health of your skin.  Without enough water, your skin will become dry, flaky, and create signs of wrinkles.  No matter whether your skin is extremely dry or excessively oily, hydration is crucial to more than just hydrating skin.  Drinking water increases circulation, which brings fresh nutrients to the skin’s cells faster.  Water also flushes out toxins and waste products that could be making your skin appear dull, tired, and aged.  The next time you find yourself needing to quench your thirst, go for a drink of water instead of soda, juice, or an athletic beverage. All of these drink options contain a high amount of processed sugars that will actually harm your skin. As opposed to water, processed sugar provides a feast for bacteria, which therefore causes acne. Drink more water to keep your skin youthful.

Not Retaining Hydration

For many, drinking water is not enough.  For example, if you have naturally low blood pressure, you will have to make an extra effort to retain the water to help your skin function.  Retain hydration in your skin by applying a hydration cream every morning and night.  Generally, you will choose between an oil-based or water-based cream based on your skin type.  Many skin types are more compatible with oil-free moisturizers, as the oil does not clog their pores and cause more irritation.  However, some old-school methods swear by classic natural oils.  Your grandmother, for instance, may have used fats like Crisco for years, as well as butter, coconut oil, or olive oil, just to name a few.

Scrubbing Face with Harsh Exfoliates

There is much debate as to whether exfoliates help or harm skin.  While dermatologists may not all agree on a final conclusion, it is likely that some people may benefit from some sort of exfoliate treatment.  Therefore, the answer is: it depends.

Regardless of skin type, it is probably best to steer clear of harsh, gritty exfoliates that can tear up your skin and cause irritation. This means that body scrubs are out of the question, at least when it comes to facial skin. Oily skin may best be suited for chemical masks or cleansers that clear skin with only a gentle application and wash. For a natural remedy, some people hold fast to an old favorite—baking soda.  Baking soda is versatile because you can adjust the dosage depending on the severity of your skin problem. For oily skin around the T-zone, use less water in order to intensify the baking soda’s effect, while dryer areas like cheeks can be more watered-down to protect skin.

Using Too Many Face Masks

The DIY face mask trend has quickly spread to become a household staple. The idea behind the DIY mask is that skin responds better to natural organic chemicals and compounds. Ingredients like yogurt, avocado, tomato, olive oil, lemon, cinnamon, nutmeg, eggs, bananas, vinegar, and more.  While many of these masks can bring positive benefits to the skin, it is always important to test a small area first before covering the face. This will let you know whether you have an allergy to certain foods on the skin as well as to see if you have a strong inflammatory reaction.  Some masks, such as those that use cinnamon, can burn the skin and should be used sparingly.

Not Getting Enough Sleep

Beauty sleep is real. Sleep is incredibly important to maintain the physical health and strength of your body. While you are asleep, your skin produces more collagen, which is a compound that prevents wrinkles and sagging. On the other hand, sleep deprivation can decrease blood circulation, which is what makes skin appear dull and tired.

Better skin starts at home. A simple change in your routine can work wonders on your skin.  If your skin problems persist and you do not see any change, consult a dermatologist to find what solution works best for you.

Do you have any habit that may cause acne?

*Collaborative Post.