7 Ways to Prevent Unwanted Blemishes.

Unwanted blemishes can strike when you least expect it. It always seems that they come at the worst times—right before a first date or the first day at a new job. As much as we would all like that quick and easy fix to magically erase our acne, it simply doesn’t work that way. Why worry about getting rid of those pesky pimples when you can prevent them in the first place? Here are some helpful ways to keep your skin free and clear of blemishes.

1. Don’t Stress!
I know, I know—stress isn’t something that’s easily manageable for everyone. Big projects, boy troubles, and finances can keep us on our toes 24/7. There no single solution for everyone when it comes to managing stress: exercise, yoga, meditation, herbal teas, the list of stress remedies goes on. Experiment with the different stress relievers you can fit into your busy schedule and find what works for you.

2. Understand What Causes Acne
The causes of acne may not be as mysterious as you think. Breakouts arise when the small pores on the surface of your skin become blocked by sebum (oil produced by your skin), dead skin cells, and bacteria. Each pore is connected to a follicle beneath the skin and a sebaceous gland. Red and white blood cells create white puss as they attempt to remove dead skin and destroy the bacteria P. acnes responsible for infection.

The most basic step in any skincare routine.

3. Wash Your Face
It might seem like a no-brainer, but washing your face every morning and night is critical for preventing buildup and clogged pores. Find a facewash that doesn’t irritate your skin and apply it to a warm, wet, wash cloth to clean your face. Using a washcloth will exfoliate your outer layer of skin and help a newer, healthier layer replace it.

4. Eat Clean
Your diet is going to be half the battle when it comes to preventing unwanted blemishes. Your body uses its immune system to fight acne and the bacteria that causes breakouts. Replacing those greasy fried foods with fresh salmon and whole grains can give your body the tools it needs to fight and prevent blemishes. Here are some foods you should add to your diet:

• Salmon
• Fruits rich in vitamin C
• Whole grains
• Nuts and seeds like flax, almonds, and sunflower
• Avocado
• Blueberries
• Orange and red vegetables
• Leafy greens

Don’t forget to cut out foods that are full of dairy and sugar. Dairy products are often loaded with growth hormones that can throw your body out of whack and too much sugar has been associated with acne.

Sweat it out!

5. Exercise
When you look good, you feel good. Not only will exercise help you feel great and improve your physique, but it can also help prevent blemishes. Exercising improves your body’s overall circulation. An improved circulatory system means that your body can carry toxins and waste away from points of flare-ups more efficiently. The common belief is that you sweat out your toxins but it’s actually your liver that filters them out. If your body can deliver toxins to your liver more efficiently, it means your blemishes will heal much faster.

6. Don’t Pop Your Pimples!
It’s a lot easier said than done for most of us. The temptation to relieve the pressure and discomfort can be too much. If you have the mental fortitude, resist—your skin will certainly thank you. Popping pimples can push the puss further under the skin and cause returning breakouts in the surrounding area. Instead of popping, keep the area clean and allow your body to naturally remove the buildup. You can always use legitimate products that can give your immune system a little help while it heals your skin.

7. Get Lots of Rest
Sleep is so important for multiple facets of health and well-being, one of which is skin vitality. Your body needs sleep to rebuild muscle and run general maintenance—including repairing your skin. Your immune system can fight bacteria in your skin and increase revitalizing oxygen flow while you sleep. They call it beauty sleep for a reason! If you want your skin to look clear, rejuvenated, and beautiful make sure you get plenty of rest.

Use these preventative steps to keep those blemishes under wraps. Take control of your skin so you never have to worry about surprise pimples again.