How to Keep Breakouts at Bay this Back-to-School Season

Back-to-school season is full of new beginnings, including fresh school supplies, new clothes, and a reset on routines. For many teens (and even college students), this time of year can also mean an unwelcome return of breakouts. Stress from classes, sports, and social life, combined with changes in weather and diet, can wreak havoc on skin.

The good news? A consistent, effective skincare routine built on proper cleansing and targeted serum treatments can help keep acne under control. Here's how to get ahead of back-to-school acne and feel confident walking into every classroom.

Why Does Acne Flare Up?

Before we dive into the solutions, let's talk about why acne may flare up during back-to-school.

Acne, during this season, can stem from several triggers:

• Stress and Hormones: Balancing homework, extracurricular activities, and social commitments can increase stress hormones, potentially leading to increased oil production and clogged pores.
• Sweat and Sports: Fall sports mean helmets, pads, and sweaty practices, which are prime conditions for breakouts on the face, chest, and back.

• New Routines: Shifting from a summer schedule to early mornings and late nights often means less sleep and more processed foods, which can show up on your skin.

Now that we know the culprits, let's tackle the solution: a simple, strategic skincare approach.

Consistent Cleansing Is Key

When it comes to fighting breakouts, cleansing is your first line of defense. Not all cleansing routines are created equal. The goal isn't to strip your skin of every drop of oil. Instead, it's about creating balance.

Here's what to keep in mind:

Cleanse Twice a Day

Morning cleansing helps remove sweat and oil that build up overnight. In contrast, evening cleansing clears away makeup, sunscreen, dirt, and bacteria from the day. Skipping either can lead to clogged pores and more breakout.

Choose a Gentle, pH-Balanced Cleanser.

Harsh, foaming cleansers might feel like they're "deep cleaning." Still, they can dry out the skin, triggering more oil production to compensate. Opt for a gentle cleanser that leaves your skin feeling fresh, like our Lemon Gel Cleanser. This lemon-powered gel cleanser was designed to gently clear oil, unclog pores, and calm acne without stripping your skin.

Don't Forget the Hairline and Neck

Products and sweat can collect around your hairline, jawline, and neck, which are common areas for breakouts. Make sure you're cleansing these spots too.

Double Cleanse if Needed

If you wear makeup or heavy sunscreen, start with an oil-based cleanser to break down residue, then follow with your gentle cleanser. This ensures you're starting with an immaculate canvas before applying any treatments. Before cleansing with water, consider trying our Micellar Cleansing Water. It lifts away makeup, dirt, and oil, and leaves skin calm and hydrated.

Targeted Serums for Acne-Prone Skin

Once your skin is clean, applying a serum may deliver concentrated ingredients to where they're needed the most. Unlike moisturizers, which focus on hydration, serums are designed to penetrate deeper and tackle specific concerns like acne, oiliness, and inflammation.

Why serums make a difference:

• They're lightweight and fast-absorbing so that they won't clog pores.

• They contain active ingredients that fight bacteria, regulate oil, and calm redness.

Key serum strategies for back-to-school breakouts:

Incorporate a Balancing Serum

Look for serums that include ingredients like Niacinamide to help regulate oil production and strengthen the skin barrier. This keeps skin calm and reduces the likelihood of future breakouts. We love using the Courtney Mask as a serum (and bonus makeup primer!) It's designed to soothe, hydrate, and refresh, and may be used at any time for any skin type.

Soothe with Hydrating Serums

Acne-prone skin still needs hydration. Look for lightweight serums with Hyaluronic Acid or aloe-based formulations to maintain moisture balance without adding excess oil. Our Algae Serums are the perfect dose of hydration. For those who are hoping to reduce the look of inflammation and irritation, chose our Rose Algae Serum. 

Spot-Treat Strategically

For sudden flare-ups, consider a targeted Infusion with bacteria-fighting properties that can be applied directly to blemishes. Our Acne & Blemish Infusion is the perfect remedy. Target stubborn breakouts with this natural spot treatment. It calms irritation, clears congestion, and restores balance without harsh chemicals.

Tips for Clearer Skin

Wash Pillowcases and Towels Regularly

They collect oil, dirt, and bacteria that can transfer back onto your skin.

Hands Off

Avoid touching or picking at blemishes, as this may worsen the issue.

Consistency is Key

The best results come from sticking to your skincare routine (even when you're tired after a long day).

Here's the good news: Back-to-school acne doesn't have to define your year. By focusing on consistent cleansing and incorporating targeted serums, you can keep your skin balanced, clear, and healthy.