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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #16513
2 days ago
22

face hacks - #16513

Kavya

I am super confused about these face hacks I keep hearing about. A few weeks ago, I started having some breakouts which are totally not normal for me. I mean, my skin has always been pretty clear, but now there are these red spots appearing all over the place. I tried a couple of face hacks I found online—like using honey and lemon, and even that weird baking soda mask. I don’t know if they made things better or worse!!! Anyway, I feel like I’m on this endless cycle of trying new face hacks but nothing seems to work. Plus, I’ve read that some of these DIY hacks could actually harm my skin long-term. Do face hacks really help, or are they just a waste of time? My friends swear by these face hacks, but I've seen so many mixed reviews. Should I be consulting a dermatologist instead? I’m honestly at my wits end here!! Has anyone found successful face hacks for sensitive skin? All I want is to get back to my normal clear complexion. Is there a possibility some face hacks might actually be causing these breakouts?? Would really appreciate any advice!

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Doctors’ responses

Regarding the face hacks you’ve tried, it’s understandable to feel frustrated trying to manage sudden breakouts, especially when you’ve had clear skin most of your life. While some DIY face hacks like honey can be moisturizing and calming due to its natural antibacterial properties, others—such as lemon or baking soda—can be harsh, especially for sensitive skin. Lemon is highly acidic and can irritate the skin, potentially worsening breakouts, or causing dryness, which may disrupt your skin barrier. Similarly, baking soda can alter the skin’s natural pH balance, leading to irritation and dryness, or possibly making acne worse.

For now, I would recommend pausing the DIY face masks and focusing on establishing a simple skincare routine with products tailored for sensitive or acne-prone skin. A gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser, a lightweight moisturizer, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen are good basics. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which are effective against acne and less likely to irritate than some DIY remedies. If the breakouts persist, consult a dermatologist—they can provide targeted treatments like topical retinoids or prescription-strength solutions. Also, consider any recent changes (diet, products, stress, etc.) that might have triggered the breakouts. Remember, the skin is quite resilient, but sometimes it needs a bit of professional help when changes occur. Always approach new treatments or hacks cautiously and prioritize your skin’s long-term health over quick fixes.

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