As a person who struggled with acne as a teenager as well as into my adult years, I have tried almost everything on the market to try to clear my breakouts.

Prescription drugs, localized injections, antibiotics, mail order kits, natural remedies – you name it. I’ve thrown anything and everything at my skin to tame the wild beast, and after many years I have finally cleared up my breakouts and settled on a routine that works for me!

Here are the top five tips I use to keep my skin a-glowing all year round.

1. WASH YOUR BONNET/PILLOWCASE

Photo: Hype Hair

Now, this step might be overlooked, but it is absolutely essential in making sure that your skin remains clean and free of any excess oils. We apply so many products to our hair that could potentially clog our pores, and sleeping in the same bonnet, pillowcase – or both – day in and day out creates the perfect opportunity for those products to build up and seep into our skin.

Make sure you wash these items at least once every week to two weeks to remove any product buildup, sweat, bacteria, etc. and keep that face beautiful and glowing.

2. DON’T TOUCH THAT FACE!

Photo: Pinterest

Maybe it’s just me, but every time I touch my face with unwashed hands I can almost feel a pimple rise to the surface immediately. We pick up so much dirt and bacteria on our hands throughout the day, so touching our faces is a huge no-no if we want to keep our skin breakout free.

Always keep anti-bacterial gel on hand if you need to touch up your makeup throughout the day or need to touch your face for any reason!

3. EXFOLIATE

Photo: Pinterest

Exfoliation has always been a dear friend of mine as it helps to remove dead skin and unclog pores, prepping your skin perfectly for moisturizer. Exfoliators come in a variety of presentations including scrubs or washes that contain salicylic acid or even amino fruit acids that help create a more even complexion.

When choosing an exfoliator, be sure to shop around and find something that is not too abrasive and won’t irritate your skin.

4. STAY HYDRATED

Photo: Capital FM

It may seem like a no-brainer but drinking water is one of the best ways to ensure your skin remains hydrated, fresh, and glowing. A lack of hydration can lead to skin that is dry, flaky, and tight. Not a good look sis.

It’s recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to help flush out toxins and keep your skin nice and supple.

5. CHARCOAL OR CLAY BASED FACE MASKS

Photo: Serenity Facials

One of my favorite beauty routines is applying face masks, particularly charcoal and clay-based face masks as they help rid the skin of any underlying impurities. These types of masks also help to regulate your skin’s production of oil, which is perfect for skin that is prone to breaking out on the regular.

So there you have it! What ways do you use to treat breakouts?

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Breakouts