No, you should not rub your acne.
Instead of rubbing or scrubbing, you should be gentle with your skin, especially when you have acne. Here’s a breakdown of why and what you should do instead:
Why You Shouldn't Rub Acne
Rubbing or scrubbing at acne can cause more harm than good. Here’s why:
- Irritation: According to the provided reference, "too much washing and scrubbing can make skin irritated." This irritation can worsen existing acne and even cause new breakouts.
- Inflammation: Aggressive rubbing can inflame the already sensitive acne lesions, leading to redness, pain, and a longer healing time.
- Scarring: Picking or rubbing acne can increase the risk of scarring as it disrupts the natural healing process of the skin.
- Spreading Bacteria: When you touch your acne, you can transfer bacteria from your hands to your face, which can lead to more breakouts.
What You Should Do Instead
Instead of rubbing, follow these gentle skincare tips:
- Gentle Cleansing: Wash your face twice a day with warm water and a mild soap designed for acne-prone skin. Remember to be very gentle when washing and avoid scrubbing.
- Circular Motions: The reference mentions, "Gently massage your face with circular motions," which is a gentler alternative to rubbing or scrubbing.
- Avoid Picking: Resist the urge to pick or squeeze your acne. This will cause irritation and may lead to scarring.
- Moisturize: Use a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer that won't clog pores.
- Topical Treatments: Use over-the-counter or prescribed topical acne treatments as directed by a doctor.
Summary
| Action | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Rubbing Acne | Avoid |
| Scrubbing Acne | Avoid |
| Gentle Cleansing | Do |
| Circular Motions | Do |
| Picking or Squeezing | Avoid |
By following these gentle techniques, you will be helping your acne heal, instead of causing irritation and making it worse.
