Why is it important to cleanse acne-prone skin before going to bed?
Skin restores itself naturally while you sleep, giving your skincare products the perfect chance to work their magic. However, failing to cleanse your skin properly before hitting the hay risks leaving pores clogged, encouraging an excess of sebum that can lead to new spots. This in turn prevents repairs from taking place, including the creation of new skin cells, which could result in an acceleration of the visible signs of aging.
How can cleansing in the evening stop new spots forming
Thoroughly washing your face in the evening helps to combat excess oil, reducing the chances of spots developing overnight. This is particularly important for those with acne-prone skin, as cleansing removes bacteria that thrive in oily conditions. Cleansing your face before sleep thus helps prevent these bacteria from causing spots.
Acne sufferers with oily skin should opt for a water-based moisturiser to avoid exacerbating blemishes. However, if your skin type is normal/combination, an oil-based moisturiser is fine – just don’t apply excessively!
What should I follow my evening cleansing routine with?
Always apply a moisturiser after cleansing to ensure that your skin doesn’t become overly dry. If you have acne-prone skin, look out for a moisturiser with a reasonable concentration of salicylic acid and LHA, whose exfoliating properties will help keep skin clear. It’s also a good idea to make sure your moisturiser contains glycerine to ensure your skin remains hydrated. If you’re using topical creams to combat acne-related symptoms, apply at night after cleansing and moisturising for maximum benefits.
Retinol, which is a great active ingredient for treating acne, has a keratolytic action, which lifts dead skin cells off the surface of the skin and exfoliates pores. This increases cell turnover, helping to combat symptoms of acne. Applying retinol before bed can go a long way towards preventing daytime breakouts. However, new cells can be vulnerable to the effects of sunlight, so don’t forget to apply daily SPF when using a retinol cream.
This article is intended as general information only. You should seek advice from a professional before altering your diet, changing your exercise regime or starting any course of conduct.
