If you are prone to acne, we already know you’ve spent years (and YEARS) researching the deepest pre-cleanser, the gentlest cleanser, the most perfectly-exfoliating toner, the most lightweight moisturizer that won’t clog pores, the most pimple-busting spot treatment, and the sunscreen least likely to make you breakout.

Yes, it’s exhausting, but you’ve done everything right and you’re still breaking out. *Screams silently in front of the mirror*

It’s time to take a look at hair products and how they affect our skin. 

Most hair products (shampoo, conditioner, gel, mouse, and more) are filled with silicones, colorants, and preservatives that are meant to coat our hair. That’s fine as long as they stay there – but they usually don’t. These by-products end up coating our skin and clogging pores.

Not only do these hair products drip down our skin while we’re in the shower, but hair that is medium-length or longer can continue to impact your skin throughout the day as your hair comes into contact with your face, neck, shoulders, chest, and back. 

What to Do About It

1. Hair First. Everyone has their own shower routine. Many people prefer to let their conditioner “set” while getting their body squeaky-clean. That can be problematic because that means you likely won’t wash your conditioner off your body when you’re done rinsing your hair. Instead, take care of your hair first – then thoroughly cleanse your face & body to wash all your hair products off your skin.

2. Limit Hair Products. Leave-in conditioners are notoriously bad for causing unnecessary breakouts. Avoid them if possible, or at least use them less frequently. If you are really suffering from breakouts, try avoiding extras like leave-in conditioner and styling products for a month or so and see how your skin reacts.

3. Switcheroo. Specifically skin-friendly hair products are increasingly more common. Try switching out your old hair products for new ones that are silicone free.

4. Be Style-Wise. We aren’t here to tell you to rock a pony every day of your life, but the more you keep your hair off your face, neck, shoulders, chest, and back, the better.

Keeping your skin breakout-free is TOUGH sometimes. Don’t make it harder with the wrong hair care routine.