Touching your face is a definite dermatology no-no. So how can you best resist scratching itchy acne?
Though all acne can be a pain to treat, itchy acne is the ultimate skincare inconvenience. Not only is this condition uncomfortable — there’s even more than the usual temptation to touch your face when your pimples feel like a rash. As you probably already know, touching your face can spread bacteria and perpetuate acne, thus bringing about a whole new crop of itchy pimples.
Here’s what you need to know about itchy acne, and how you should treat breakouts when you’ve got an itch that just won’t quit.
What Causes Pimples to Itch?
There are two main types of acne: comedonal and inflammatory. Comedonal acne manifests itself in blackheads and whiteheads, usually scattered across the T-zone. Though this common form of acne presents its own challenges for treatment, you’re significantly more likely to experience itching from inflammatory acne. Inflammatory acne manifests itself in deeply rooted cystic breakouts and red pimples which tend to hurt, and — you guessed it — itch.
If an infection originates deep under the skin, the resultant pimple will be accompanied by significant redness, swelling, and general itchiness and discomfort. Of course, cystic acne is totally curable — but it will probably require more than just a topical solution.
Beyond cystic acne, there are a few different reasons you might be compelled to scratch your zits. The first is very simple: when our skin heals, it has a tendency to itch — that’s why we pick at scabs, too. Your discomfort may also stem from the skincare products you’re using. After all, if an over-the-counter cream or serum dries out your skin too much, you’ll be left with inflamed, flaky, itchy skin.
How You Should Treat Itchy Breakouts
The number one rule of itchy breakouts? Don’t scratch! Not only will scratching irritate your already inflamed acne, it will also spread more inflammation-causing bacteria into your pores, worsening your breakout and causing new pimples to pop up.
Instead, be extra gentle with your skin — avoid over-washing and try going makeup-free. In addition, apply moisturizer regularly, since dry skin may be the culprit of your itchy acne. If you absolutely can’t stand the itch, try dabbing some aloe vera on the affected areas.
You may also want to consider the counsel of a certified dermatologist to deal with these uncomfortable breakouts. The sooner you talk to a professional, the sooner you can clear up that oh-so-annoying acne.