5 Common Skin Problems and How to Fix Them

*Collaborative Post

Your skin’s condition reflects your overall health, impacting not just your appearance but also your confidence. While it can be frustrating to deal with breakouts, irritation, or dryness, these issues are manageable when armed with the right products and routines. By understanding the triggers and solutions, you can achieve healthy, balanced skin.

Acne

Salicylic acid is a common ingredient in skincare products designed to treat acne, and for good reason. It penetrates deep into your pores, dissolving excess oil and sloughing away dead skin cells before they clog follicles.

To stop acne at the source, use a cleanser with 2% salicylic acid daily, followed by a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer. If your breakouts persist, introduce benzoyl peroxide, which kills acne-causing bacteria, or a retinoid to accelerate cell turnover. Avoid harsh scrubs, as over-exfoliating can trigger more oil production and worsen breakouts. However, if your acne is severe, widespread, or causing scarring, it’s a clear sign to consult a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist. While over-the-counter options are effective for many, some forms of acne require a more targeted medical approach. Specialists can assess your condition thoroughly and may prescribe stronger treatments not available over-the-counter. For instance, Botonics is a clinic that offers advanced solutions, including medications like Roaccutane (isotretinoin), which is a powerful prescription-only treatment for severe, persistent acne that has not responded to other therapies. Roaccutane therapy requires careful medical supervision due to its potency and potential side effects.

Dry skin

Your skin feels tight, rough, or flaky when it lacks moisture. But dryness isn’t just about hydration; it’s also about protecting your skin barrier. When this protective layer weakens, moisture escapes, leaving your face vulnerable to irritation.  

To fix this, focus on barrier repair. Use a creamy, fragrance-free cleanser that won’t strip your skin, and follow with a moisturizer rich in ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin. Lock in hydration by applying products to damp skin, and never wash with hot water, as it depletes natural oils.

At night, consider applying a thin layer of occlusive ingredients like petroleum jelly or shea butter to prevent overnight water loss.

Eczema

Eczema stems from an overactive immune response, often triggered by allergens, harsh products, or environmental factors. The key to controlling it is consistency. Switch to a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic routine with gentle cleansers and rich emollients, like colloidal oatmeal or shea butter. Keep showers short and warm, not hot, and apply a thick moisturizer immediately afterward. If itching becomes unbearable, use a hydrocortisone cream sparingly or consult a dermatologist for prescription-strength options.

Sun damage

Sun exposure accelerates aging, causing wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and loss of elasticity. Once UV damage sets in, reversing it takes patience. Start with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 (or higher) every morning, even on cloudy days. To fade dark spots and improve texture, introduce vitamin C for its antioxidant protection and a retinoid to boost cell turnover.

Exfoliate once or twice a week with an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) like glycolic acid to brighten dull skin. For deeper damage, professional treatments such as chemical peels or laser therapy can stimulate collagen and fade sunspots.

Rosacea

Persistent redness and sensitivity signal rosacea, a condition triggered by heat, alcohol, spicy foods, and stress.

To calm irritation, use a sulfate-free, fragrance-free cleanser and a soothing moisturizer with niacinamide or green tea extract. Mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide can protect the skin without aggravating redness. If your rosacea worsens, talk to a dermatologist about prescription treatments like azelaic acid or laser therapy to reduce visible blood vessels.

*This is a collaborative post. For further information please refer to my disclosure page.