by January Johnson
Thankfully, your awkward phase probably ended years ago. Even if you’re well past the pimple-popping stage, you might still have to deal with zits. The zit-junk-food myth was put to rest a long time ago. But there’s another cause and it’s something you may not have expected before – your pillow!
Before you spend hundreds on special skin care treatments, shine a black light on your pillow case. See anything? Your pillow looks innocent, but it could be a direct cause of your skin care problems.
Dirty pillowcases cause acne. It’s a fact. Don’t go into denial and blame bad genetics or your chocolate- and-pizza diet. Start changing your pillowcases regularly.
Your pillow collects bacteria from your eyes, nose, and mouth. As you lie there helpless, these toxins seep into your pores and clog them. This is to blame for your new zit in the morning.
Pillows don’t clean themselves (yet), but they’re really good at getting dirty. Bacteria from your eyes, nose, and mouth get trapped in your pillow and on your pillow case. And as you lie there helpless, that bacterium clogs your pores, causing breakouts.
Your hair and skin type are good indicators of how much you should wash your pillowcase or pillow protector. If you have an oily skin type, get those bed linens in the laundry twice per week. Those with normal-to-dry skin should wash their bedding at least once a week. Keep a clean pillow protector on hand, so you can cover your pillow between washings.
Here’s the solution: let your hair and skin dictate your bed linen washing schedule. If you sweat profusely or your hair is oily – get those linens in the laundry at least twice a week. Those with normal-to-dry skin should wash their sheets and pillowcases once a week – no less! Keep a clean pillow protector on hand, so you can cover your pillow between washings.
Invest in a good pillow protector to protect your pillow from dust mites, allergens, and bacteria. Or get a pillow with allergen protection built-in. The main difference between pillow protectors and pillowcases is that pillow protectors have a zip closure, so your clean skin won’t come in contact with your dirty pillow during the night.
Washing your pillow cases or investing in a pillow with allergen protection is your first step to healthy skin. Although it’s yet another household chore, its painless compared to a second adolescence.
