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Are you struggling with breakouts that seem to pop out of nowhere? There are various measures you can implement which will be protective in terms of prevention.

Here are my 5 cardinal rules:

#1: Stop touching your face. Our hands are constantly exposed to bacteria throughout the day. Extend that to your cell phone as well. Use ear buds or utilize the speakerphone to avoid the phone touching your face. Wipe your cell phone screen down with an alcohol wipe regularly. Wash your hands prior to applying your skincare products.

#2: Aim to wash your pillowcases every 2 to 3 nights. Unwashed pillowcases can be major breeding grounds for bacteria causing pimples. I’ve read that your pillowcase is actually dirtier than your toilet seat- gross right? Bonus: launder in hot water to rid the pillowcases of any microbes.

#3: Now let’s take a look at your towels. Bacteria multiplies fastest in wet environments. Consider what’s lurking in your towel. Bath towels can come into contact with E.Coli and and other fecal bacteria. Imagine cleansing your face and then wiping your face down with that bacteria on the towel. It’s best to use a new towel for face cleaning daily . Here is a great option- it’s a pack of bamboo face towels (over 14,000 amazing 5 star reviews) that are actually marketed for baby use. We have repurchased these reusable cotton rounds– these are the perfect size. They come with a laundry bag- at the end of the week throw them all in the bag and wash on warm- this ensures they won’t disappear amongst the other laundry.

#4: We all know that we need to wash our makeup brushes. But are you actually doing it? This is an area in which most of us can improve. One tip is to wash your makeup brushes and sponges the same day you’re doing your bedsheets- that way you’re doing it somewhat regularly. Furthermore, be sure not share makeup brushes, sponges or makeup with others. We recently discovered FREY’A antimicrobial beauty sponges- an antimicrobial sponge-genius right?!. You can check out these sponges here. ( This company also sells antimicrobial brushes which are sold out currently- I’ll be on the lookout for a restock.)

#5: Shower and wash your face right after exercise. As sweat collects during a workout, bacteria can form and cause breakouts. It’s best to clean off as soon as you’re done. If unable shower, use glycolic acid or salicylic acid pads to wipe down your back, chest and face. It’s a good idea to have a jar of wipes in your gym bag. These 5% Glycolic “on the go” pads by Pixi are affordable and get the job done. Once you’re home and can shower, this Salicylic Acid wash by Naturium is a great pick and is safe for face too.

I hope you have found this to be useful.

I’m grateful for your support of The Empties Archive. Every like, comment and share means the world to me.

xo,

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