Skincare mistakes that make your acne worse
Most things that make your acne worse are small habits you don't even think about. This includes harsh scrubbing, toothpaste on a pimple, tanning beds, or an old pillowcase. Good news, all of these are easy to change. And your skin will calm down immediately.
Does toothpaste help with pimples?
No, toothpaste dries out your skin unevenly and irritates it. It damages your skin barrier, the layer that retains moisture. As a result, redness and inflammation often get worse instead of better. So, leave the toothpaste for your teeth.
Can I wash my face in the shower?
You can, but it usually results in a less thorough cleanse. In the shower, it's harder to see what you're doing, making it easier for makeup, sunscreen, and sebum to remain in your pores. It's better to wash your face separately at the sink, with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser. This way, you truly massage your skin clean and keep it calmer. Our Calming Cleanser is gentle enough for this.
Is a tanning bed good for acne?
No, tanning beds only provide a temporary effect and make acne worse in the long run. Your pimples may dry out for a bit, so it seems to help. But afterwards, redness, hyperpigmentation, and sensitivity return even stronger. The radiation disrupts your skin barrier and makes inflammation more active. It also increases the risk of scarring and persistent dark spots.
Is acne my fault?
No, acne is never your fault. It's caused by hormones, genetic predisposition, and a sensitive skin barrier. You don't cause it through bad habits or lack of hygiene. It's a skin condition, not a flaw. Do you know that feeling when you look in the mirror and think it's your fault? That you've tried everything and are constantly disappointed? Let go of that idea. You didn't do anything wrong.
Is cream bad for acne?
No, the right cream actually helps your skin recover. A cream that's too rich or oily can clog a pore, that's true. But not moisturizing your skin is just as bad, because then your barrier dries out and produces even more sebum. Choose a light cream that hydrates without feeling heavy and doesn't clog your pores. Our Balancing Moisturiser is specifically designed for this.
Should I stop using skincare if my skin reacts?
In case of persistent irritation, it's best to pause for a while so your skin barrier can recover. Does your skin remain red, sting, or flake? Then gradually reintroduce your active products, or opt for milder products for a while. Your skin sometimes just needs rest before it can continue.
Does scrubbing make my acne worse?
Yes, scrubs with beads cause small damages that make your acne flare up. On sensitive skin, these beads create tiny wounds. As a result, inflammation becomes more active and pimples become deeper or more painful. A gentle acid that loosens dead skin cells works much milder. You can read more about this in maybe you're treating your acne too aggressively.
What other small habits make a difference?
Your pillowcase and hair products play a bigger role than you might think. Sebum, sweat, and product residues remain on your pillowcase, so wash it two to three times a week. And pay attention to your shampoo and conditioner, because oils, fragrance, and silicones can run down your face during showering and clog your pores. So always rinse your face clean after washing your hair.
Is sunscreen bad for acne?
The wrong sunscreen can cause pimples, the right one actually helps your skin. Thick or greasy formulas can sometimes clog your pores. But a light sunscreen that absorbs quickly and doesn't clog your pores is very important for acne. Sunlight makes inflammation more active and causes spots after a pimple. You can read which one is best to choose in the ideal sunscreen for your acne.
The mistakes in a row, and what does help
| What you better not do | What it does to your skin | What does help |
|---|---|---|
| Toothpaste on a pimple | Irritates and dries out unevenly | A soothing serum on the entire area |
| Harsh scrubbing with beads | Causes wounds, inflammation flares up | A gentle acid, one to three times a week |
| The tanning bed | Temporarily better, then redness and spots | A light sun protection every morning |
| Only washing your face in the shower | Doesn't cleanse thoroughly, pores clog | Cleanse separately at the sink |
| No cream or a cream that is too rich | Dehydration or clogged pores | A light cream that doesn't clog your pores |
| Using pillowcase for too long | Sebum and bacteria trigger pimples | Wash two to three times a week |
Are you unsure about your routine?
I am Sofie, I make all Belskin products in my own lab and I see in practice how often small habits counteract skin. Are you unsure whether your routine helps your skin or actually hinders it? I am happy to help you with personal follow-up. Feel free to make an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does toothpaste really help with pimples?
No. Toothpaste irritates your skin and dries it out unevenly, often making a pimple redder and more painful. A calming product on the entire area is a much better choice.
Can I scrub if I have acne?
It's better to avoid scrubs with beads, as they damage your skin and cause inflammation to flare up. A gentle chemical exfoliant is milder and works deeper without friction.
Do I need to use a cream for oily skin?
Yes. Oily skin also needs moisture. If you skip the cream, your skin will dry out and produce even more sebum. Choose a light cream that won't clog your pores.
Why do my pimples get worse after using a tanning bed?
A tanning bed may provide a temporary drying effect, but it then disrupts your skin barrier and makes inflammation more active. In the long term, you'll experience more redness, spots, and an increased chance of scarring.
Leave a comment