School soon, HELP clear my ACNE!

As the school year begins, many students worry about managing acne. Here at Nashville Dermatology Physicians, Dr. Jeffrey Berti and Dr. Toula Berti would like to provide some tips to help you keep your skin clear and healthy as you navigate school stress and activities.

Start by establishing a consistent skincare routine. Cleanse your face twice a day using a mild cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can irritate your skin and make acne worse. If you are not using any acne topicals that you leave on your face, you may want to chose products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, both known for their acne-fighting properties.

Some skin care enthusiasts will state that 'moisturizing is crucial, even if you have oily skin'; however, we found that many do not need this, unless of course the acne preparations that are prescribed leave the skin feeling dry and flaky.  If that is the case, opt for a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer that won't clog your pores. Over-washing can lead to dryness, which may prompt our skin to produce more oil, which can lead to breakouts.

Your diet also may play a role in skin health. While the link between diet and acne isn't fully understood, some studies suggest that high-glycemic foods and dairy products may contribute to breakouts. Focus on eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.  Decreasing processed foods, caffeine and salt content may also help.

Managing stress is also important. School can be a stressful time, and stress can trigger or worsen acne. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Make sure you're getting enough sleep, as sleep deprivation can affect your skin's health. Our skin heals as you sleep.  Realizing this is easier said than done, it is important once again to decrease the caffeine content during the day as this will aid in achieving a more restful night sleep, even if you're not achieving the ideal 8 hours., 

Avoid touching your face throughout the day. Your hands come into contact with bacteria and oils, which can transfer to your face and cause breakouts. If you need to touch your face, ensure your hands are clean.

If over-the-counter treatments aren't helping, or if you would like to learn more about your skin issues and discuss a personalized acne plan with one of our physicians, please contact our office at 615.212.2517.  Dr. Berti can provide stronger medications or treatments tailored to your specific skin type and acne severity. 

Also if you are heading off to college, now is the time to schedule your in person appointment and that way follow up appointments can occur via telemedicine visits, allowing you the comfort and ease of discussing your skin issues with one of our physicians without leaving home.

Remember, acne is common and manageable with the right care. By maintaining a consistent skincare routine, eating a healthy diet, and managing stress, you can help keep your skin clear and maintain your confidence as you head back to school.