Blackheads, dilated pores, oily skin

Blackheads are the result of too much sebum, and for most people, they are caused by skincare products. The skincare product with the highest capacity to damage the skin barrier is a harsh cleanser. When the natural protective oils of the skin are stripped, the skin is forced to produce more sebum to compensate. Another cause for blackheads and dilated pores is stress. Blackheads and whiteheads can also signify an acne-prone skin. 

Cleansing is an important step in skincare. If you wear oil-based makeup or SPF during the day, use a gentle oil-based makeup remover, then follow with a cleanser. A gentle cleanser is half the battle won in skin health, so choose your cleanser wisely.

Daily Skincare Routine

AM:

1. Cleanse face with Triple Action Cleanser + cold water. This concentrated cleanser doesn't foam and only a small amount is needed. It mildly exfoliates and adds probiotic. Remember, this is a gentle cleanser that will respect your skin's pH and microbiome. 
2. Apply Multilayer Serum on the affected area to control oxidised sebum.
3. Apply Regulating Cream to whole face to hydrate and prevent future blemishes. This cream works in synergy with the Multilayer Serum to target sebum.

PM: 

1. Cleanse face with Triple Action Cleanser + cold water. 
2. Apply Multilayer Serum to affected area.
3. Apply Regulating Cream to whole face.

Nutrition

Based on the new science of nutrition, healthy eating now has a new purpose. Given the overarching importance of our gut microbiome in overall health and skin health, we should be choosing foods to feed our gut microbiome.

Foods that help feed our microbiome are:
- Fibre-rich fruits and vegetables such as oats, broccoli, bananas, apples, cabbage, etc
- Diversity of plant based foods - aim for a minimum of 30- 35 different foods (including herbs, spices, seeds, fruits, vegetables) per week to improve the diversity of the gut microbiome. 

Reduce sugar:
- Higher sugar (including simple carbs) produce more insulin. More insulin leads to more androgens. More androgens lead to more sebum and potentially to acne or spots. 
- In ageing skin, sugar leads to premature ageing in a process called glycation. Glycation damages collagen and elastin and can't be reversed, leading to sagging skin and wrinkles.

Lifestyle

Exercise increases blood flow, and blood carries oxygen and nutrients to working cells around the body, including the skin. Any form of exercise works, from fast walking to resistance training like weightlifting. Find an activity you like to do, and you're more likely to stick with it.

Managing stress is another key element of heath and healthy skin. Incorporate some kind of breathing exercises into your life, even if it's just a few minutes each day. Yoga is a great way to combine physical and breathing exercises.

Improve your sleep and take time out to relax. Stress is an aggravating factor for skin problems, and many people suffer chronic stress without recognising the symptoms. In sustained periods of stress, we recommend taking our food supplement Skin & Stress, rich in antioxidants and magnesium.