A bright red pimple pops up just as you are suiting up for an important job interview or getting primed for a hot date. Terrible timing! The fact is you cannot get acne to follow a more convenient schedule. So, let’s focus on what you can do, such as use the best face wash for men with acne. The right product could reduce the frequency and intensity of acne flares, keeping you looking and feeling great.
Why you need face wash for acne
Lots of men reach for regular bath soap when washing their face, but this is a big no-no! The facial skin is delicate and needs special care, especially if you have acne. To understand why, it is essential to know how acne forms. Three main culprits are to blame for your flares:
- Clogged pores: As excess oil, dirt, and dead skin accumulate, they block the pores, creating a traffic jam of sorts. Natural oils and sweat get trapped under the skin because of the clogged pores. When this happens, whiteheads and blackheads begin to appear.
- Acne bacteria: Blocked pores are party zones for acne-causing bacteria. As the bacteria multiply in the pores, immune cells arrive to fight them off, leading to inflammatory acne. Red, swollen, and sometimes pus-filled zits begin to crop up now.
Regular soap may remove some of the build-up, but it cannot penetrate the pores effectively. As a result, it cannot keep acne away. Since soap dries out the skin, it may even increase the risk of new breakouts. So, ditch the soap and look for the best face wash for men with oily skin instead. A good face wash will cleanse your acne-prone skin without putting it through the wringer.
(Here’s more on the soap versus face wash debate.)
How face wash works against acne
- Face wash deep-cleans the skin: It dislodges and washes away excess oil and build-up that accumulates on the skin throughout the day. The best face wash for men with pimples will penetrate deep within the pores to eliminate blockages.
- Face wash minimises acne symptoms: A good acne-control face wash clears away acne bacteria, thus limiting future breakouts. Dealing with active pimples? Face washes can reduce swelling and redness, as well as minimise acne-related pain and discomfort.
- Face wash leaves the skin hydrated: When the skin is too dry, the sebaceous glands can overproduce sebum, leading to new breakouts. The right face wash leaves the skin feeling clean but not dry and tight. It reduces sebum levels without stripping the skin of natural oils.
Use the best face wash for acne
Always check the ingredient list before buying a product. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs). These control oil levels and slough off dead skin that might otherwise clog the pores. A face wash with tea tree oil as an active ingredient can help with current flares, and products infused with aloe vera could soothe irritated skin. (Find more tips on how to choose a face wash for acne.)
Once you zero in on the right face wash, learn to use it properly. Here’s what you need to do:
- Wet your face and neck with warm water.
- Spread a small amount of face wash all over the moistened skin.
- Use circular motions to work in the product for about 30 seconds.
- Rinse off with warm water.
- Pat dry with a soft, clean towel.
- Repeat twice daily.
Be gentle with acne-prone skin. Rubbing the skin aggressively could cause microtears and irritate the skin. (Here’s our guide on how to wash your face properly to prevent acne.)
Face wash is the first step to acne-free skin
You don’t need dozens of fancy products to achieve healthy skin. But a few well-chosen formulas could have you glowing in no time:
- After rinsing off the face wash, swipe on toner to refresh the skin.
- Target acne bacteria and inflammation with a soothing product like Clearica Anti-Acne Cream.
- Finally, dab on some moisturiser to keep the skin supple all day long.
If you prefer to keep skincare simple, this is as easy as it gets. Think of face wash as the gateway to a speedy and low-fuss skincare regimen that keeps you both acne-free and at your handsome best.
Disclaimer: This page is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a recommendation or for diagnostic purposes. Please consult your dermatologist or doctor before acting on any of the information provided here.