The start of a new school year often brings a mix of excitement and stress. Whether you’re a teen heading back to high school or an adult juggling college courses and a career, this transition can sometimes trigger unwelcome acne breakouts. Changes in your daily schedule, new environmental factors, and increased stress levels can all impact your skin’s health.

At Charleston Dermatology, we understand that clear skin is a key part of feeling confident. That’s why we’re here to provide expert tips for managing acne during this busy season. 

Build a Strong Foundation: Your Daily Skincare Routine

Consistency is the most important factor in preventing breakouts. A simple, effective daily routine can make a significant difference in keeping your skin clear and healthy. You don’t need a complicated, ten-step process; just a few core products can work wonders.

Morning Routine: Protect and Prepare

Your morning routine should focus on cleansing away impurities from the night and protecting your skin from the day ahead.

1. Gentle Cleanser: Start your day by washing your face with a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid if you have oily or acne-prone skin, as it helps to unclog pores. Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate your skin and worsen inflammation.
2. Lightweight Moisturizer: All skin types, including oily skin, need hydration. A lightweight, non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog pores) moisturizer helps maintain your skin’s natural barrier. Dehydrated skin can overproduce oil, leading to more breakouts.
3. Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable: Sun exposure can darken acne scars and damage your skin. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every single morning, even on cloudy days. Choose an oil-free formula designed for the face to prevent clogged pores.

Evening Routine: Cleanse and Treat

Your evening routine is your chance to remove the day’s buildup of dirt, oil, and makeup while applying targeted treatments.

1. Thorough Cleansing: If you wear makeup or have been particularly active, consider double cleansing. Start with an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup and sunscreen, then follow with your regular gentle cleanser to wash everything away.
2. Apply Acne Treatment: After cleansing, apply a spot treatment or a thin layer of a product containing benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid. Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria, while retinoids help to increase cell turnover and keep pores clear. Start with a low concentration to see how your skin reacts.
3. Moisturize Again: Finish with your non-comedogenic moisturizer to soothe and hydrate your skin overnight.

When to Seek Professional Acne Management

While a consistent daily routine is a great first step, some types of acne require more advanced care. If over-the-counter products aren’t giving you the results you want after several weeks, it may be time to consult a dermatologist. Persistent, painful, or cystic acne often needs professional intervention to prevent scarring and effectively manage breakouts.

A board-certified dermatologist can offer a range of effective treatments tailored to your specific skin needs.

What Professional Treatments Can Do for You

At Charleston Dermatology, we create personalized treatment plans that go beyond what you can find in a store. Here are some of the options we might recommend:

• Prescription Medications: We can prescribe stronger topical retinoids, antibiotics, or oral medications like isotretinoin for severe cases. These treatments target acne from multiple angles, reducing inflammation, killing bacteria, and regulating oil production more effectively.
• Chemical Peels: A chemical peel uses a specialized solution to exfoliate the top layers of skin. This process helps to unclog pores, reduce the appearance of acne scars, and improve overall skin texture.
• Laser and Light Therapies: Advanced technologies like laser treatments can target and destroy acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation in the skin. These procedures are quick, effective, and require minimal downtime.

A dermatologist will assess your skin, discuss your lifestyle, and determine the safest and most effective path toward clear skin.

Start the School Year with Confidence

Don’t let acne hold you back this school year. By establishing a solid daily skincare routine and knowing when to seek professional help, you can take control of your skin health.

If you’re struggling with breakouts, let our award-winning team at Charleston Dermatology help you achieve the clear, healthy skin you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward confidence.