The Best Acne Treatments

As the myth may suggest, acne is NOT caused by dirt but instead by the combination of oil and dead skin cells trapped in pores. Proper daily skin care is an important factor in helping to prevent acne, however, when done alone this is not enough for most acne suffers. To obtain a healthy complexion and avoid acne outbreaks we have composed a guideline of simple steps to assist you. Remember though, proper diet and the correct amount of sleep are not only good for your body but also for your skin.

Cleansing – To maintain clean pores wash your skin twice daily. Use a gentle non allergenic soap and warm water to remove excess oil and dead skin cells. Many acne suffers tend to over compensate when washing but remember dirt is not the cause of acne. Treat your skin with kindness and avoid over scrubbing or using harsh exfoliants which will only cause irritation and could stimulate the oil glands to producing more. If you choose to use an exfoliant use only once a week with a product that has small granules.

Astringents – When using astringents avoid products with alcohol. Alcohol is a drying agent and astringents containing it can strip the top layer of your skin, leaving your glands more vulnerable. When this happens your glands will produce more oil. Astringents are designed to constrict pores thus creating a protective layer of firm tissue on the skins surface.

Facial Masks – If you are inclined to using a face mask make sure that the main ingredient is honey. You can even try a homemade honey mask recipe. Honey is a disinfectant with medicinal properties that heal minor blemishes and also helps to destroy bacteria. The antioxidant and anit-microbial properties in honey enable it to absorb impurities from the pores.

Benzoyl Peroxide – This is an antiseptic used to cleanse the skin and will reduce the number of blocked pores. Benzoyl peroxide destroys acne causing bacteria. Available over-the-counter at your local pharmacy there is no need to consult your physician for a prescription.

Vitamin A – Vitamin A is a great natural way to reduce the production of oil. Not only does it slow down the renewal of oil in the skin it also helps the skin function as a barrier to bacteria. Vitamin A is most used to prevent and fight infections, including acne. Consult your physician regarding your proper daily dosage.

Blemishes – As tempting as it may be – Do Not – squeeze or pick at blemishes. Each time you pick, poke or prod at your face you are also forcing bacteria deeper into the hair follicle. This bacteria mixed with you natural oil and dead skin cells will only increase your blemishes. Squeezing and picking may also result is scarring.

Fighting acne is about good health, including a well balanced diet, proper sleep and a daily skin care regimen, as well as, regular exercise that enables the body to reduce stress and increase circulation resulting in more blood and oxygen flowing to the pores. The extra flow of blood and oxygen helps to cleanse the pores by flushing out oils and toxins. Mild acne can usually be cleared up with over-the-counter medications. At the first sign of acne start your treatment for a better chance of avoiding larger or more severe outbreaks. Do not get discourage, there are a wide range of products available to help acne suffers including one that will work for you.