Tips For Acne Control

Before getting into acne control, let us look at how it is formed. Oil (called sebum) is secreted normally from hair follicles which travel up to the pores where it lubricates and protects the skin. Sometimes, there are oil glands which enlarge and produce too much sebum, which then gets trapped in the hair follicle. Thus the pores will get clogged, forming either blackheads or whiteheads. This allows bacterial overgrowth, namely by Propionibacterium acnes.

Acne control

Including a variety of seeds, nuts, vegetables and fresh fruit in your diet can be a good foundation for alleviating acne. Drink plenty of water, and make sure you apply a good moisturiser to your skin after cleansing. Dry skin loses its protective function, and is more prone to being affected by the environment.

Most skin care products contain chemical ingredients that can aggravate acne. If you use make-up, try products that are non-comedogenic. Keeping stress levels low can also reduce the release of stress hormones and help control the intensity of acne. Dairy products can cause acne, particularly if you are intolerant to them and don't realize it. Heavily tanned skin can lead to blocked pores, as the thick layer formed does not exfoliate very quickly.

Some of the acne control guidelines recommended by The American Academy of Dermatology are as follows.

Do not squeeze, pop or pick at the acne lesion. This can spread the inflammatory chemicals and worsen the acne.
Wash your face twice a day gently with mild soap or sulfur soap. Just pat your face dry and do not rub it with a towel.
Avoid oil based products.
Avoid acne irritants such as airborne grease from fast food restaurants, rubbing or friction from sporting equipment etc.
Give anti-acne products time to clear up the lesions. This can mean several weeks or even months.
Some acne products increase the skin's photosensitivity. When in the sun wear a hat and use sunscreen and avoid tanning booths while using these products.