As the school bell gets ready to ring, it’s time to ace your back to school skincare routine and walk into class with your clearest, most confident self. Whether you’re starting a new semester or heading off to college, these back-to-school tips will help you stay on top of your acne game all year long!
Glow-Up Before You Go
Why not start the semester with your best face forward? Schedule a back-to-school treatment before classes kick off. Let’s clear out any congestion, banish those breakouts, and get your glow on. You’ll be strutting into school with skin as fresh as your new notebooks!
Stock Up on Acne-Safe Skincare
Before you pack your backpack, make sure your back to school skincare stash is fully loaded! Your back-to-school essentials should include the Go Gently Cleanser, toner, clarify serums, Wipe Out, Nutri-Cream, and SPF. These acne-fighting superstars will have your skin ready to shine (in the best way) from day one.
Plan Like a Pro
Skincare success is all about planning. Check your schedule and find out when your practices and activities are. If you’re hitting the pool in the morning, pack a skincare bag to complete your routine post-swim. Got football or volleyball practice after school? Knock out your nightly routine as soon as you get home—don’t wait until you’re falling asleep on your chemistry book!
For college students, the same rule applies. If you’re in for the night by 6 p.m., get your skincare done early so you can hit the books (or Netflix) worry-free. Your skin will thank you!
Makeup Musts: Keep It Acne-Safe
Heading back to school with a fresh face also means making sure your makeup routine is acne-safe. Start by giving your brushes a deep clean—there’s nothing like applying makeup with fresh, clean tools. We recommend washing your brushes once weekly with a non-pore-clogging detergent like Branch Basics. And don’t forget to check out our Acne-Safe Shopping List for makeup and hair products that won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts.
Action Plan for Athletes
Whether you’re on the field, in the pool, or on the court, athletes need a little extra skincare TLC:
- Wipe it Down: Stock up on disposable alcohol wipes to clean your football helmet after every practice.
- Vaseline to the Rescue: Keep a small jar of Vaseline in your swim bag to protect your skin from chlorine and salt water.
- Wash Your Gear: Regularly wash your ball caps and headbands—sweat buildup is no friend to clear skin!
- SPF is Your BFF: Apply acne-safe SPF before hitting the field for soccer, baseball, outdoor volleyball, or swim practice.
Prep Your Pantry
Fuel your body with foods that love your skin back! Stock up on acne-safe snacks and lunch essentials:
- Almond Butter Love: Swap out peanut butter for almond butter—think almond butter toast, almond butter and celery sticks, and almond butter and jelly.
- Pea Protein Power: Choose pea protein shakes and skip the whey or soy versions in a can.
- Ramen Reality Check: Avoid salty noodle pouches like Top Ramen.
- Ditch the Energy Drinks: Skip the Red Bull and other B12-loaded energy drinks.
- Dairy-Free Delights: Keep dairy-free milk on hand for cereal and smoothies, and treat yourself to some dairy-free ice cream!
- Allergan-Free Brands: Choose anything from the Enjoy Life brand. Everything they make is soy-free, dairy-free and peanut-free! A win-win for clear skin!
- Chip In For Clear Skin: Tortilla and potato chips with hummus, guacamole and salsa make a great snack!
- On-the-Go Snacks: We love Boom Chicka Pop individual snack-sized bags for a quick on-the-go choice! Almond butter-filled pretzels are filling and satisfying.
- Sweet Treats: Sweet Loren’s ready to bake cookies make for clear-skin sweet treat!
Pillowcase Prep
Nothing feels better than slipping into bed with a clean pillowcase—and your skin will thank you for it! Stock up on pillowcases and make it a habit to change them every other night. Launder them with a non-pore-clogging detergent like Tide Free and Gentle or Branch Basics. Keep a stack of fresh pillowcases right by your bed so you can easily swap them out. A clean case means a clean face!
This back to school skincare guide will help you start the school year with clear skin and confidence. So, sharpen your pencils, pack your skincare, and get ready to rock the new semester acne-free!
Cheers to clear!
Joyce