The key is to treat acne and dark spots at the same time.
Acne often occurs during puberty, however, it does affect adults as well.
According to PubMed Central, it is actually the eighth most common skin disease in the world.
Acne is usually caused by inflammation and clogged pores, but other factors like physical and emotional stress can lead to a breakout.
Nevertheless, it can affect more than just a person’s appearance. Acne can negatively affect a person’s self-esteem and subsequently lowering their morale.
This is a problem that also affects Desi men. Thankfully, there are a number of tips that can help with reducing acne in darker skin tones.
Here are some tips that can help lead to clearer skin.
Treat Acne & Dark Marks
Even if you manage to get rid of the acne, another problem is the dark marks.
Also known as acne scars, these are pigmented dark spots or marks that appear after spots have healed. They typically appear brown in colour.
Without treatment, they could take months or even years before fading away.
When getting rid of the acne, you get rid of what is causing the dark marks.
The key is to treat acne and dark spots at the same time. Treatments for marks include chemical peels which remove the top layer of skin to reduce the appearance of deeper scars.
Treat the Acne Early
By treating acne when it is starting to break out can prevent it from getting worse.
If it gets worse before treatment begins, there is a higher risk of developing dark marks as well as raised scars, which can be difficult to treat.
Scars are formed when not enough collagen is made while the wound is healing.
The severity ranges from dark marks which fade naturally to ice pick scars which can go deep into the skin. They are the most difficult to treat because they can extend far under the skin’s surface.
For Desi men, it is important to treat acne early as they are more likely to develop visible marks and scars after acne treatment.
Use Products specifically for Darker Skin
While there are many products out there, not all of them work well with darker skin.
An effective treatment is to use products which contain a retinoid and benzoyl peroxide. It is a combination which works well with darker skin tones.
The retinoid helps unclog pores and reduce inflammation. Not only does it clear spots but it can prevent new breakouts.
Benzoyl peroxide removes the acne-causing bacteria. A common misconception is that it causes light spots, however, it can cause bleaching to clothing.
Benzoyl peroxide may cause irritation so it is best to start with a product that contains 2.5% benzoyl peroxide as products with a higher percentage can cause dryness, leading to acne worsening.
Use it on alternate days if it causes mild irritation.
Make Changes
In some cases, acne may only appear on your forehead and temples. If this is the case, your hair care products are likely to be the cause.
A way to clear it up is to make some changes.
One way is to switch hair care products. Opt for one that contains water or glycerin instead of oil.
Another is to apply the hair care products only in the middle of the scalp and ends of the hair.
This is a simple way to get rid of acne, however, if breakouts continue to occur, another option is to stop using the hair care products.
Use Products which don’t Clog Pores
Like hair care products, skincare products could be the reason for acne breakouts.
Products like cocoa butter and shea butter are commonly used but contain oil. If they are applied to the face, back or chest, it can clog pores.
Clogged pores happen due to dead skin cells getting trapped in the skin instead of being shed into the environment.
Pores release oil and sweat. Using oil-rich skincare products leads to excess oil and subsequently results in clogged pores.
Clogged pores can end with blackheads, whiteheads and acne. This is noticeable because you will see an overall dullness to your complexion.
As a result, it can make you feel self-conscious.
To prevent skincare products from causing acne, get rid of any which contain oil and instead uses ones which are labelled “non-comedogenic” or “won’t clog pores”.
Be Gentle with Skin
Desi men may feel that by scrubbing their face, they will get rid of their acne. They may also believe that popping a spot will lead to clearer skin.
However, these are false. In actual fact, the acne may get worse.
Scrubbing can cause irritation, leading to acne flaring up. By picking and popping spots, you’re likely to push bacteria deeper into the skin, increasing inflammation and possibly leading to more-noticeable acne.
There is also a higher risk of getting a scar.
An effective way to get rid of acne is to be gentle with your skin.
When washing your face and other skin with acne, use a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser and lightly apply it, using a circular motion.
Gently rinse it off with warm water then pat dry with a clean towel.
Repeated use will eventually lead to acne reducing and result in clearer skin.
Frequently Wash Headwear
It may not seem like a cause for acne but wearing hats is a massive reason for breakouts.
Known as acne mechanica, things like caps, hats and headwear cause acne and it is all down to friction.
These things trap and hold heat against the skin, causing pores to become blocked. Continuous friction causes the pores to become irritated and small blemishes turn into larger pimples.
It is a prime reason why sports players get acne.
Acne mechanica is noticeable because the skin is clear in other areas. Spots tend to break out in certain areas like where the hatband rests.
A lack of frequent washing is also a problem as sweat, dirt and oil accumulate.
The best thing to do to reduce acne is to wash headwear regularly.
Seek help before Treatment
There are many treatments to use for acne, both at home and medically, but it is important to see a dermatologist before using any type of chemical peel, microdermabrasion or laser therapy.
This is due to the possibility of side effects.
For Desi men, they should visit a dermatologist because it could leave them with permanent dark marks and light spots.
When performed by a professional, these treatments are effective, especially if the person has darker skin.
For those who are thinking about acne treatment, it is best to see a dermatologist or a doctor who specialises in skin treatment.
It is recommended to ask the dermatologist how many times they have performed the treatment on Desi people as some may be more experienced than others when dealing with darker skin tones.
Visit a Dermatologist
When it comes to treating acne, one of the best ways is to visit a dermatologist.
With the help of a dermatologist, every case of acne and most dark marks can be successfully treated.
Some people require a prescription-strength medicine while others need a specific combination of treatments.
A dermatologist will be able to examine your skin and devise an effective treatment plan which is tailored to your needs.
Although it is not ideal to deal with acne during the adult years, thankfully, there are others who experience the same problem and there are many helpful tips.
Try out a few different options to find the most effective way.
Once you find the most helpful method, stick to it. Over time, acne will reduce and skin will be clear and more vibrant.
A reduction of acne will result in more self-esteem and an overall better mood. So try out these tips and see the difference.
Loading ...