Most of us spend a good chunk of time washing and styling our hair each day - but what you may not realize is that those efforts can actually have a less-than-ideal impact on your skin. Luckily, there are a few steps you can take to enjoy tamed tresses and clear skin.
Many hair products contain acne-causing ingredients: the most common are isopropyl myristate, coconut oil and other natural oils, silicone derivatives and petrolatum, all of which can clog pores and start the cycle of acne.
If you experience acne, avoid those ingredients. you can also look for products labeled "oil-free" or "noncomedogenic." I like the Bumble and Bumble Super Rich Conditioner - it never causes my very sensitive skin to break out.
Whatever conditioner you choose, always wash your face after rinsing your hair to ensure that you haven't left any potentially irritating ingredients on your skin.
If you use hair-styling products, invest in some hair clips and barrettes to keep your hair off your face. If you are very troubled by acne, try washing your hair gel or mousse out before you go to bed, when your hair is particularly likely to touch your face.
At the very least, pull your hair back before you go to sleep. Changing your pillowcases frequently is another good way to avoid transferring hair products - and the dirt that can settle in your hair over the course of the day - to your skin.
Finally, try to avoid using hair-styling products when you know you'll be exercising or perspiring. As you sweat, there's a higher likelihood that those products will drip onto your skin and trigger breakouts.
Wishing you great skin and hair!
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Dr. Baumann is author of the best-selling book, " The Skin Type Solution." To learn more about her revolutionary skin typing system, visit her Web site, SkinTypeSolutions.com.
All of Dr. Baumann's recommended skin care products are available online, and a portion of proceeds goes to The Dermatology Foundation.
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