Acne Skin Care Tips

Although there is no one miracle cure for treating acne, which usually occurs when the skin produces too much sebum or oil, there are, however, several important ways of caring for the body’s largest organ and successfully dealing with troubling conditions like acne.

Choosing the Right Acne Skin Care Products

The first, and very best defense against the ravages of acne is simply knowing your exact skin type and understanding how it plays a role in the development of blemishes, blackheads, pimples, and full blown cases of acne. Avoid using any products that contain chemicals, artificial colorants and dyes, or any harsh ingredients that will aggravate acne. Many people have found success with products containing ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, both of which are used in different concentrations depending on the severity of the acne.

It is rather common for some people with acne to need a moisturizer from time to time, so it’s important to choose one that’s non-comedogenic and won’t clog the pores or irritate the skin further. The same holds true for make-up as women will want to choose products that offer the lightest coverage.

Learning the Proper Way to Cleanse the Skin

While the skin as a whole is generally rather resilient, as after all, it does the job of protecting the entire body throughout our lives, it still does require the right type of care in order to be at its best, particularly if conditions like acne are involved. This includes doing simple things such as cleansing the skin as gently as possible, using the right pressure when exfoliating, and patting the skin dry, never rubbing.

Unless directed by your dermatologist, or if you have a milder case of acne with few outbreaks, or have a cleansing cloth that’s specifically intended for use on acne, always use your fingertips when washing the face. Even the softest of materials may aggravate some acne, causing sores to break open and possibly causing permanent scarring.

Four Tips for Protecting Acne Prone Skin

1. Always Have Protection From the Sun: Even without acne, any exposed skin should always be amply protected from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Unfortunately, the myth that a good "healthy" sunburn, which in itself is actually an oxymoron as no such thing exists, will help improve acne is responsible for doing far more harm than good. Skin that’s sunburned will indeed peel away to reveal a new layer of skin underneath, but this will also greatly accelerate the aging process and increase the risk of melanoma. A gentle exfoliation on a regular basis is definitely the smarter choice.
    
2. Avoid Touching the Face: Although it may be easier said than done, make a conscious effort to avoid touching your face unless absolutely necessary. Oils, bacteria, dirt, and germs are unwittingly transferred to the face from the hands, all of which may either directly contribute toward or exacerbate existing acne.
    
3. Never Use Rubbing Alcohol: Never use rubbing alcohol, or any other harsh astringent, to dry out the skin, regardless of how oily it may be, as doing this will have too much of the opposite effect, drying it to the point of dehydration and causing acne to become even more irritated and inflamed.
    
4. Take Extra Care While Shaving: With plenty of moisturizer and a bit of common sense, it is possible to shave safely with acne. As everyone’s skin is different, and considering the varying degrees of acne, try using both an electric and regular safety razor to see which is the best and most comfortable choice for you, remembering to always use the sharpest blade/razor possible.