Acne Prevention

 

Acne Prevention: Keeping It Under Control

Acne Prevention is an important step in keeping this embarrassing skin condition under control – and keeping you from feeling negative about your appearance. Severe acne in the form of inflamed pimples can often make you want to hide away from the world and avoid social situations. But with a bit of extra care and attention to your daily skin care routine and lifestyle habits, you can help reduce the number of breakouts.

Acne Skin Care: Cosmetics

It is a natural tendency to try and hide acne when it appears. But too much makeup of the wrong kind can actually make the problem worse. Certain ingredients, such as carmine, creams, and coal tar derivatives are those you want to avoid. Opt instead for noncomedogenic and hypoallergenic products.

Stay away from shiny, shimmery, and metallic finish cosmetics. Be sure to apply makeup with clean fingers or a clean sponge to prevent the bottle from becoming contaminated with the bacteria in pimples.

Skin Care: Cleansing

It is important to keep your skin clean, but don’t overdo it. Scrubbing the skin and excessive cleansing are both no-nos. This will irritate the condition and dry out your skin – or cause the hair follicles to produce even more of the oil that causes acne in the first place. Gentle cleansers instead of harsh soap or those containing alcohol are best.

Skin Care: Shaving

For teen acne in young males, shaving the face can be beneficial. Shaving is a manner of exfoliating and promotes open pores. It can also help remove whiteheads and blackheads. Take care using a razor on inflamed pimples, however. Always use a sharp blade and gentle strokes that follow the flow of hair growth. Electric razors are better at helping with acne prevention.

Skin Care: Acne Products

There are a number of over the counter and prescription medications that are designed to prevent acne and lessen the severity of breakouts. Look for ointments or cosmetics that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids. These are available in day formulas or a night cream. A doctor can prescribe antibiotics, oral contraceptives, Accutane, or anti-androgen medications.

Lifestyle: Exercise

Exercise has many benefits. For the person suffering from acne, it is a great way to de-stress and develop good self-esteem. Just remember to wear loose clothing made from cotton or other natural materials to wick away sweat and always wear clean clothes each time you exercise.

Lifestyle: Diet

There is really no evidence to suggest that chocolate or fried foods are acne causes. However, it is recommended that you stick to a diet that gives your body the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutritional value to promote overall good health. Foods high in Vitamins C, B, A, and E may even be beneficial in preventing acne.

Acne Prevention is an ongoing process. It takes into account all areas of a skin care regimen and healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a good diet. Acne need not be debilitating once you take the steps to keep it under control.