Summer is in full swing and its an abundance of swimsuits, sundresses and shorts that make up our entire wardrobe. For some, the struggle of picking out a summer outfit is real when you lack the confidence to rock your favorite trends due to the annoying, pesky pimples on the body.
Valley knows the struggle all too well and has found some tips and tricks to help you figure out what is really causing your bacne (back acne) along with how to clear it up for the rest of the summer.
Tip #1: Switch up your Shampoo
One of the biggest causes of body acne on the upper back, shoulders and chest is due to the type of shampoo and conditioner you may be using. Instead of picking up the shampoo in the aisle that claims to have every oil in it from the exotic lands of Morocco to eliminate frizz, search for one that is free of parabens, silicon and sulfate.
The harsh hemicals in certain shamcpoos can clog your pores and harm your skin more than you think. For an inexpensive, organic shampoo try the Maple Holistics Sage shampoo and conditioner. Hask Argan Oil Repairing Conditioner is another organic option for those individuals with dry, color treated hair.
Tip #2: Oil-Free Everything
When it comes to our bodies, the first products we usually reach for are the ultra hydrating formulas that may be over-hydrating the skin and causing breakouts.
For the upper body, or the areas where you find yourself breaking out the most, try using an oil-free face or body wash to cleanse that area.
According to Frank Lista, M.D., a dermatologist based in Toronto, using oil-free products are beneficial for those suffering with sensitive, acne-prone skin.
“Oil-free usually refers to water-based products. They are hydrating rather than moisturizing. You will still receive the benefits of hydration, but without any greasy feeling to your skin,” says Lista.
Try the Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser, which is free of oil and harsh ingredients. For extra precaution, wash and condition your hair before washing your body. This way, when you cleanse the skin, you wash off any residue left behind by your hair products.
Tip #3: Wash Your Gym Clothes After Every Use
Sweating out the toxins in your body is important to maintain internal balance while exercising. However, that sweat may be getting trapped in your sports bras and tight workout clothes.
Immediately after your workout, take off your sweaty clothes and take a shower or wipe off the top of your body with a makeup wipe. Also, never wear the same workout outfit without washing it first.
Valley knows it may seem like a hassle to have to keep washing your favorite sports bra, but it will save you from some pesky pimples in the future.
Tip #4: Avoid Makeup At All Costs
No matter how badly you want to cover up your acne with makeup and throw on your strapless, black dress for the night, resist the urge.
The first step towards clearing your body acne is to let your skin breathe and let acne-clearing products do their jobs. When you smear on your ultra coverage foundation and powder over your acne, you are only clogging your pores and preventing your skin from clearing itself.
If you really need that extra boost of confidence and want to cover the acne for a night, try using a lightweight, oil-free foundation or BB cream. Neutrogena makes many different foundation formulas for each skin type that include ingredients to help clear the skin. Always remember to try out the formula a few days in advance to make sure you do not suffer from a reaction to the makeup.
The summer season is too short to live in fear of showing off your body. No matter what type of skin you’re in, you are beautiful and deserve to wear that little sundress or bikini to the beach.
