Why Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients Help Prevent Pimples

Is adult acne making you feel like you're back in high school? Fear not: according to epidemiological data, acne is one of the most frequently experienced skin conditions across the world among both adolescents and adults.

But despite just how normal breakouts may be, that doesn’t make unwanted acne any easier to deal with. Studies show that those who suffer from an acne-prone skin type carry a heavy psychological burden due to the condition, affecting their self-confidence and mental health to the point of impacting their interpersonal and professional relationships.

The prevalence of one-size-fits-all acne treatments certainly doesn’t help the issue; from deep cysts to clogged pores and prevalent face oils to whiteheads, acne manifests itself differently in each individual’s unique skin chemistry. Made-for-the-masses treatments may fail to target your specific needs and subsequently aggravate the already-inflamed issue rather than clearing up breakouts as intended.

Finding the best moisturizer for acne-prone skin is particularly challenging in the modern marketplace, as many popular creams and moisturizers available for purchase are manufactured with oil and wax-based ingredients – a big no-no for the breakout-inclined.

But a good moisturizing routine is vital to the continued health of your skin, as the right active ingredients can keep your oil production in balance and combat the drying effects of anti-acne topical and oral medications.

Luckily, contemporary science has revealed numerous skincare ingredients proven to fight acne and sebum overproduction at its roots. Taking a personalized approach as a rule of thumb toward the ingredients used in your moisturizer, night cream and daily skin care regimen, you might just be able to say bye-bye to bad breakouts in no time – especially with the help of 2250’s custom formulas.

Introducing Anti-Inflammatories

Perhaps one of the most impactful additions to a correct skincare routine for acne-prone skin – especially for those suffering from cysts and pimples – are anti-inflammatories, a subset of ingredients with the power to soothe the skin and reduce breakout susceptibility.

Acne in and of itself is inherently inflammatory, with the condition caused by the inflammation of the epidermis’ pilosebaceous follicles. With this in mind, it should come as no surprise that approximately 92 percent of acne-targeted moisturizers on the market contain some sort of anti-inflammatory on their ingredients list.

Some key ingredients to look for while selecting your anti-acne moisturizer are:

Witch hazel: This natural botanical not only has anti-inflammatory properties but also is often used as an astringent. This means witch hazel not only helps to soothe breakouts, but also has the ability to reduce sebum production and the size of your pores.

Aloe vera: Well-known for its soothing properties, aloe vera application can reduce your skin’s cyclooxygenase output, subsequently lowering the level of the body’s inflammatory response that causes breakouts. Aloe likewise is renowned for its moisturizing capabilities against dry skin, and those looking to make the most of its hydration effects should look for a concentration of at least 10 percent in relevant skincare products.

Chamomile: Chamomile contains bisabolol, an oil best known for its soothing effects on sensitive skin and its antioxidant properties – a solid match for consumers looking to combat acne and provide an anti-aging boost, especially around the eye area. The flower-derived ingredient likewise can reduce redness and hyperpigmentation, a common post-breakout side-effect.

Cucumber extract: A one-two punch of hydration and anti-inflammatory properties, cucumber extract is a smart choice to look out for those searching for a hydrated and soothed skin feel, and is a key part of 2250’s clean ingredient library.

Glycerin: Botanicals aren’t the only anti-inflammatories you should look out for on a moisturizer’s ingredient list. Glycerin not only helps reduce redness and subdue inflamed skin – its famed ability to attract moisture into the skin makes it a germane ingredient selection if you want an additional boost of hydration.

Are blackheads and whiteheads more of your problem than pimples? Keep an eye out for salicylic acid, a common ingredient that helps break down the impurities clogging up the inside of your pores.

And despite the prevalence of anti-inflammatories in acne-targeted products, that’s not the only thing you should pay attention to in your quest for the correct skincare routine. When selecting the right moisturizer for your acne-prone skin, do your best to avoid occlusive moisturizers and stick to emollients and humectants.

Occlusives, which often contain slick substances like petroleum, may just exacerbate the greasiness of your already oil-prone skin and add unnecessary weight to already-clogged pores, so avoid occlusives like shea butter for a lighter approach!

When in doubt, oil-free and non-comedogenic moisturizers are the way to go when building the correct skincare routine for a breakout-vulnerable individual.

Say Sayonara to Sebum with a Simple Skincare Routine

Now that you’ve figured out how to find the right moisturizer for breakout-prone skin, it’s time to break down how to put that acne-fighting hydration to use. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to implement your new skincare regimen to the fullest.

Wash your face: Using an anti-acne product won’t have its intended effect if it's applied on top of dirty skin. Make sure to wash your face gently to not disturb or inflame pre-existing breakouts and gently pat dry.
Topical medications: Many people who suffer from acne are prescribed topicals by dermatologists. If this applies to you, now’s the time to put it to use.
Moisturize: Finally, it’s your carefully-selected moisturizer’s time to shine! Apply the moisturizer generously and with care, and you’re all good to go!

And of course, don’t forget to apply the all-important sun protection factor that protects your skin, beginning at a minimum SPF 30, if you’re doing your routine during the daytime.

Finding the right moisturizing steps for acne-prone skin may feel like an uphill battle, but with the right targeted ingredients, it doesn’t have to be. If you want to take your fight against breakouts to the next level, use 2250’s artificial intelligence analysis to identify your acne’s root causes and create a custom moisturizer formula to address the problem at the source, or consult with a board certified dermatologist to select the best moisturizer for your acne-prone skin with ease.

Bye-bye, Breakouts: Introducing the Best Moisturizing Steps to Fight Acne-Prone Skin