The Following Could Be Making You Breakout.
Here are some very simple things that can be done to be proactive in avoiding breakout.
Change Your Pillowcase Often.
Most of us have a favorite pillow on our bed that’s our go-to for sleeping. I would recommend changing this particular pillowcase every other night. Why? Our pillowcases harbor our sweat, drool, hair products, pet dander and partner dander. Would you put on the same dirty clothes over and over? Probably not. So why expose your skin to the same dirty pillowcase night after night? Additionally, if you are experiencing persistent body breakout, consider changing your sheets more often too.
Wash Your Makeup Brushes and Avoid the Use of Makeup Sponges.
I would advise washing your makeup brushes every 2-3 weeks. Antibacterial soap is best. Once the brushes have been washed, allow for them to completely dry before using again.
Sponges hold onto everything, including moisture, bacteria and fungi. If you must use sponges, I suggest using each sponge no more than 3 times, then start with a fresh one. There are popular, preferred, pricey sponges on the market, like the Beauty Blender, priced around $20 ea. Obviously, this is not a sponge that you want to discard and repurchase every 3 days. However, if you are someone who struggles with acne or any skin infection for that matter, I would strongly suggest considering a cheaper alternative, as this skin is at high risk for spreading and exacerbating existing infection when reusing sponges.
Dirty Glasses.
When was the last time you cleaned your frames and nose piece? I see a lot of superficial, easy to avoid breakout right where glasses frames and nose pieces touch and sit on the face. This happens because your frames collect oil, makeup and sweat. I recommend keeping a spray bottle of rubbing alcohol on hand and cleaning the frames every few days.
Not Washing Your Face (and Body) After You Workout.
Heat and sweat combined is an ideal breeding ground for fungal acne. If you exercise regularly and are experiencing breakout on the face, in particular the hairline and the sides of the neck, make it a point to thoroughly wash your face and neck immediately after working out. If you are experiencing body breakout, particularly on the upper chest and upper back, promptly get out of your gym clothes and shower right away.
Making Out with Your Dog (or Cat).
Animals, dogs and cats specifically, have similar bacteria and fungi on their skin as humans do. If you are kissing your animal or allowing them to lick your face you are exposing yourself to bacteria, including staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Additionally, you are exposing yourself to potential viral and fungal infections through their infected saliva. (see related: Zoonosis)