Common skin conditions take over the routines of many. Do you reach out for scarves to conceal ever-lasting blemishes? What about looking flushed before even making it to your date? We’ve all tried to hide away in times like these. Some of the most common skin conditions include acne, rosacea, wrinkling, and eczema.

Often, genes have a huge part to play. However, lifestyle and environmental factors that affect skin must also be accounted for. Either way, the condition can be eased by understanding it well, and following an efficient skincare routine. Let’s have a look at each of these common skin conditions individually, and learn ways to rid your skin of them.

Acne

We’ve all spent hours examining blemishes in front of the mirror. Don’t worry, you're not the only one. Acne is one of the most common skin conditions and affects the world at large. An ocean of words – blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, papules, etc, are often used synonymously. Cue: They’re not all the same. While acne is a skin condition, the rest of the words are varying symptoms of it.

To keep lubricated, glands under the skin secrete an oily substance called sebum. When dead skin cells, sebum, bacteria, and hair follicles come together, they make for a deadly result - acne. Now, why did acne choose your skin? Let us tell you a secret. Acne loves skin that’s oily, unclean, and makeup-ridden. Also, you’re no oddball if you’re grumbling about the appearances of acne in your 20’s. Hormonal fluctuations lead the body to produce oil excessively.

Prevention

• Exfoliate: One of the most effective ways to get rid of acne is to use a chemical exfoliant containing salicylic acid.
• Keep Clean: Whether you’re going to bed or leaving the gym, always remember to cleanse your face.
• Alter Your Diet: Folks, it’s time to binge on foods rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, and water content.
• Get the Right Products: Skincare that’s misaligned with your skin type is just a big no-no. Know what your skin needs, and always check product labels.

Rosacea

No, you haven’t been crying and no, you are not blushing. Sometimes, it’s rather annoying explaining yourself – we get it. Rosacea is one of the many types of skin problems on the face. Often resembling sunburns, this chronic skin condition refers to an inflammation of the face, coupled with pimples, reddening, and jutting blood vessels. Although experts are still working hard to point out the exact causes for this skin problem, immune system changes and environmental factors have a huge role to play. Key rosacea triggers include spicy foods, hot drinks, heavy exercising or exertion, sunlight, extreme temperatures, stress, anxiety, etc.

Prevention

• Avoid Everything Extreme: We’re talking really hot showers, excessive working out, really spicy foods, and too much alcohol – especially red wine.
• Shielding from the Sun: Leave no stone unturned in protecting your skin from the sun. Sunscreen, scarves, sunglasses, hats – use ‘em all!
• Minimise Effects of Stress on Skin: If your personal or professional life is taking a toll on you, take a step back and re-evaluate things. If need be, see a therapist.
• Alter Your Diet: Incorporate anti-inflammatory, fibre-rich, and prebiotic foods into your diet.

Wrinkling

There’s no denying that the skin of a 10-year-old looks very different from that of a 70-year-old. As collagen production slows down over the years, the skin loses elasticity, thus turning prone to wrinkling. We’re all about embracing these pretty facial lines. However, there are ways in which you can delay ageing skin. In addition to the natural effects of ageing, wrinkles are provoked by dehydration of the skin, excessive exposure to sunlight, and stress.

Prevention

• Use a Retinoid: A popular anti-ageing ingredient, retinoids are known to encourage skin regeneration and postpone the outbreak of wrinkles.
• Hydrate: Drink lots of water. Moisture is essential for keeping wrinkling at bay.
• Protect from the Sun: There’s nothing like too much sunscreen. On both sunny days and cloudy, slathering on SPF is a must.
• Get Your Beauty Sleep: Try to get about 7-8 hours of good sleep on a daily basis. Sleep really is the solution to most problems.
• Eat A Well-Balanced Diet: Studies have shown a direct link between eating healthy and looking younger. Antioxidants like carrots, oranges, lemons, apricots, tomatoes, green leafy vegetables, salmon, etc, will fight damage brought about by ageing skin problems.

Eczema

Sometimes, the skin can be scaly, itchy, and harsh to touch. Eczema can be of various types and is often observed in babies. It shows up as skin rashes that itch and is typically seen in dry skin types. While the specific causes of eczema continue to remain unknown, genetic and environmental factors are said to be responsible. Although rare, some continue to deal with eczema even after stepping into adulthood.

Prevention

• Moisturising: Ensure that the skin doesn’t dry up and crack at any point. Locking in moisture is necessary.
• Medication: Do not hesitate to visit a dermatologist. Depending on the severity and the symptoms, suitable medications might be prescribed.
• Avoid Skin Irritants: Avoid tight-fitting clothing, harsh and fragrant soaps, and rapid temperature change.

Whatever your skin condition, remember that a disciplined lifestyle and an efficient skincare routine can go a long way in protecting the skin. If you ever need a shoulder to lean on, we’re here for you. Take our free skin assessment. Trust us, this is the golden ticket to flawless skin. Our personalised skincare is an expert at ridding our customers of skin problems. 😊