A Guide on How to Cope with Frustrating Acne Breakouts:

Acne can feel overwhelming, especially when new breakouts appear seemingly out of nowhere. As a teenager, waking up to a fresh spot on your face can honestly feel like the end of the world. It's important to remember that you're not alone—"approximately 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 24 experience at least minor acne." In this post, I’ll share practical tips for dealing with frustrating acne breakouts, so you can feel more confident in your own skin.

First, Breathe and Take a Break

When acne flare-ups start to take a toll on your mental health, take a moment to breathe. It may sound simple, but pausing to ground yourself can make a big difference in your mood and perspective.

Go for a short walk to clear your head, relax while watching an episode of your favorite show, take a nap—anything that relaxes you, and to take your mind off your skin.

Focus on What You Can Control

Once you’ve taken a breath, shift your focus to the things you can control. This shift is crucial as it helps redirect your energy away from worrying about your skin.

• Change Up Your Look: Consider trying something new with your hair or start planning your outfits for school/work.

• Positive Attitude: Cultivate a mindset that emphasizes your strengths and positive traits. Remind yourself that your acne does not define you!! Your energy and actions do.

Be Kind to Yourself

Being kind to yourself is essential while coping with acne. Negative self-talk can create a vicious cycle that harms your self-esteem. (Easier said than done.)

Practice self-compassion by treating yourself as you would a close friend facing the same struggle. Instead of saying hurtful things, remind yourself that most people experience insecurities, one's you've never noticed before. Remember, it truly is worse in your own head. I remember showing my friends old pictures of my cystic acne, and they were shocked, as they didn't recall my skin ever looking like that.

Find Your People

Having someone to lean on can make a significant difference when dealing with acne. Talk openly with friends and family about how you’re feeling; you might be surprised to learn they have faced similar experiences.

• Explore Online: On social media, you can find countless individuals "revealing" their acne. An influencer who significantly helped me with my acne journey was Alix Earle. Her openness about the issue made me realize it wasn't as severe as I had imagined.

This support can remind you that you're not isolated, making it easier to cope with your feelings.

Simplify Your Skincare

In times like these, it's best not to overhaul your skincare, since it is the most sensitive when experiencing multiple breakouts. A simple, gentle regimen with a mild cleanser, non-comedogenic moisturizer, and careful treatment application can effectively soothe your skin without causing irritation.

Final Thoughts

Coping with frustrating acne breakouts can be challenging, but remember that you're not alone in this journey. By taking a moment to breathe, focusing on what you can control, and practicing self-compassion, you can navigate this time with greater ease.

Embrace your beauty, rely on your support system, and don't hesitate to seek help if you need it. With time, your skin will improve. You can do this!