Common Acne Triggers

This guide helps you become more aware of things that may be triggering your acne.

Rest and Stress

Prioritize rest and manage stress daily. Elevated stress hormones can increase oil production, leading to clogged pores and acne flare-ups.

Fabric Softener

Liquid and dryer-sheet softeners leave residue on fabrics that touch your skin. Switch to anti-static dryer balls to reduce buildup and prevent irritation.

Detergent

Fragranced detergents can irritate skin and contribute to breakouts. Choose fragrance-free options and always check ingredients against Face Reality’s Pore-Clogging list.

Pillowcases

Change your pillowcases frequently to prevent oil and product buildup. Clean pillowcases help minimize clogged pores and support clearer skin.

Water Softeners

Some water softeners contain potassium chloride, which may worsen acne. If you notice more breakouts after installation, consider using a shower filter.

Swimmers

Pool disinfectants often contain chlorine and iodides that irritate acne-prone skin. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or barrier cream before swimming.

Sun Exposure and Acne

Too much sun can inflame acne and cause long-term skin damage. Always wear non-comedogenic SPF, even when it’s cloudy or raining.

Hand lotions

Comedogenic hand lotions can transfer to your face and clog pores. If you rest your face on your hands, use only non-pore-clogging products.

Breakouts around your mouth

Lip balms, toothpaste, and face tissues often contain pore-clogging ingredients. Opt for petroleum jelly and SLS-free toothpaste to help prevent breakouts.
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Food and Supplements That Can Affect Acne

This is a general guide, not a strict rulebook. We don’t recommend completely eliminating foods—just becoming more aware of what may affect your skin. Triggers vary from person to person.
Trigger Replacement
IODIDES: IODIDES IRRITATE THE PORE AND MAY CAUSE ACNE FLARE-UPS
Iodized salt Sea salt, uniodized salt, celtic salt, himalayan salt
Milk (including organic and especially nonfat) Almond milk, coconut milk, rice milk, oat milk
Cheese Nut cheese
Whey or soy protein shakes and protein bars, creatine Pea protein, egg white powder, hemp – still check for iodides and biotin before buying (Vega Sport Performance Protein and Perfect Fit are a few safe ones.)
Seafood, shellfish: cod, scallops Fresh water fish: lake trout, bass, catfish
HIGH ANDROGEN: FOODS HIGH IN ANDROGENS MAY CONTRIBUTE TO INCREASED SEBUM
Peanuts, peanut butter Almond butter or other nut butters
Peanut oil, corn oil, canola oil Olive oil, coconut oil

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Caring for Your Skin After ProCell Microchanneling

ProCell Microchanneling is one of my favorite advanced treatments because it works with your skin’s natural healing process to stimulate collagen and improve overall skin health.
What to Expect After Your Treatment

After your ProCell treatment, it’s completely normal for your skin to feel slightly tight, warm, or sensitive, similar to a mild sunburn. You may also notice redness, dryness, or light flaking over the next few days. These are all healthy signs that your skin is healing and producing fresh collagen.

  • Avoid touching your face or letting your phone come in contact with your skin.
  • Don’t apply any products (unless provided at your appointment).
  • Avoid direct sunlight for the first 24 hours. After 90 minutes, you can apply sunscreen if needed.


This short window allows the micro-channels to close naturally and minimizes the risk of
irritation.

  • Focus on keeping your skin calm, hydrated, and protected.
  • Skip any retinols, exfoliants, or acids (AHA/BHA) for 7 days.
  • Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer for the first few days.

Start your Procell Post-Care Serums 24 hours after your treatment:
1. Apply Cellular Renewal Serum (Step 1)
2. Wait 30 seconds, then apply Healing Accelerator (Step 2)
3. After one minute, follow with your moisturizer and daily sunscreen

Continue using both serums until they are finished. They’ll help boost collagen production and speed up healing.
By day 6 or 7, you can gently exfoliate to remove any texture or dry skin buildup. (If you don’t have a scrub, I’m happy to recommend one or provide a sample at your next appointment.)

By now, your skin should feel smoother, stronger, and more balanced. Continue supporting your results by keeping your routine consistent and gentle.

You can start slowly reintroducing your normal skincare products, but continue avoiding strong exfoliants or active treatments until your skin feels completely back to normal. Stick with nourishing, hydrating formulas and avoid anything that causes sensitivity.

At this stage, your skin is actively rebuilding collagen and looking more refined.
Keep your routine consistent, and don’t forget to schedule your next Procell session.
For best results, these treatments are done in a series—about once every four weeks.

Tips to Maximize Your Results

Hydrate

Drink plenty of water daily to help your skin heal from within.

Moisturize

Keeping your skin hydrated supports collagen formation and a healthy barrier.

Maintain your glow

Continue using professional-grade skincare consistently between treatments for lasting results.

Simple skin tips to support healthy, clear skin

Clear skin isn’t about perfection — it’s about consistent habits that support your skin barrier, reduce congestion, and keep inflammation under control. These daily practices are simple, but they make a noticeable difference over time.
Clean Space, Clearer Skin

Bacteria can easily transfer to your face. Keeping the things that touch your skin clean helps prevent congestion and breakouts.

  • Change pillowcases 1–2x weekly
  • Wash makeup brushes and sponges regularly
  • Sanitize your phone screen daily
  • Avoid touching or picking at your skin
  • Use a clean towel or washcloth every cleanse

A proper cleanse sets the tone for everything else you apply. Slow down and let your cleanser do its job.

  • Cleanse for 60 full seconds
  • Remove cleanser thoroughly with a clean washcloth or disposable facial towel
  • Pay extra attention to the hairline + jawline
  • Use cool or lukewarm water, never hot
  • Double cleanse every night when wearing makeup or SPF

A healthy barrier = less irritation, fewer breakouts, and clear, happy skin.

  • Moisturize morning + night (yes, even acne-prone skin)
  • Look for acne-safe, non-comedogenic formulas
  • Hydrate throughout the day
  • Avoid over-exfoliating or using harsh scrubs
  • SPF is non-negotiable — every single morning

Sweat isn’t the issue — it’s what’s left behind that can cause irritation and breakouts.

  • Wash your face right after workouts or sweating
  • Keep a travel cleanser or hypochlorous acid spray in your gym bag
  • Avoid heavy makeup before workouts

Your skin reflects what’s happening internally.

  • Prioritize whole foods, protein + healthy fats
  • Reduce high-sugar and high-dairy intake if breakout-prone
  • Prioritize your sleep — that’s when your skin repairs itself
  • Stress management is key for calm, clear skin
Your daily habits lay the foundation - targeted facials and expert guidance take your skin to the next level. If you’re ready for personalized care or help choosing the right products, I’d love to support you.
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