Acne - Some Simple Steps To Help You Manage It

Moderate to severe acne can affect the young and old alike, treating it properly involves diligence and patience.

A few simple tips to help you get started, the things you will need include:

A mild face cleanser or toner
Some Warm water
Acne medication
Sunscreen or sunblock
Determination and lots of patience


Each day begin by washing your face with a mild cleaner when you wake up morning and at night just before bed. Don't use harsh cleansers, they will just irritate the acne further.

Next pat dry your face with a soft towel, don't rub too hard or you'll remove too much moisture. Be careful not to wash your face too much, it can irritate your skin.

Apply an acne medication, either one prescribed by a dermatologist or an over the counter product Benzoyl peroxide reduces bacteria and salicylic acid helps to unclog your pores.

Protect your skin with a non-clogging sunscreen/sunblock and avoid excess sunlight exposure. This is especiaslly important when you are using topical or internal acne products that may increase your skin's photo sensitivity.

Use only noncomedogenic (non pore clogging) water-based cosmetics that are free of any tyope of oil. There are moisterizers and make-up that are specially formulated for acne-prone skin.

If shave, do it carefully. Shaving can irritate your skin so only shave when and where it is necessary and only in one direction. Some creams contain benzoyl peroxide so be sure to check on the label.

Don't squeeze acne, it can often lead to further inflammation.

Avoid prolonged or repetitive contact with the acne-affected area. This could include holding a phone to your face or resting your chin on your hand for prolonged periods.

Make sure that your hair is kept clean and away from your face. Your hair's natural oils can worsen acne, as well as hair products that contain oil.

If you still have breakouts, meet with a dermatologist or doctor. Different types of acne may require varying treatments.

Follow the doctor's instructions carefully, when prescribed a medication, remember to take it regularly.

When treating acne keep in mind that it will involve time and patience. Treating it is often a slow process with no quick fix. But sooner or later you will win the battle and your skin will thanks you for it!

Remember that acne is one of the most common skin conditions affecting both young and old in the US and almost 100% of those affected first suffer in their teens.

Hang in there and you can win the fight!

David Mitchell writes for numerous online health-related blogs. His website Acne Scar Removal explains the latest on quick, safe and effective acne treatments. His site also lists many great home remedies for acne and various types of acne medication.