Here are a few things to consider if you don't want
to see those pimples pop up.
DO:
= Clean your face twice a day. Use a cleanser that is
designed for your skin type and avoid harsh and
irritating products. When cleaning your skin and rinsing
it with water (make sure to use plenty!), move from the
neck to the hairline - that way you are not likely to
spread hair build up over your face, as it can aggravate
acne.
= If you work out and sweat, clean your face after you
exercise.
= Use a moisturizer for your skin type. Even if your
skin is oily, don't ignore this important part of your
daily routine. Your skin needs protection. Overdrying
your skin will not do any good: on the contrary, the oil
glands will start working even harder.
= Choose cosmetics made for your skin type.
= Use products with fruit acids. They help to shed old
skin cells and prevent pore clogging. You are not likely
to see the results overnight, but be patient and stick
to the treatment - you will be pleasantly surprised.
= Protect your skin from wind and harsh environment as
they make skin prone to infections.
= Shampoo your hair regularly. Oil glands on your scalp
produce the same sebum as those on your face. Add hair
care products residues and environmental elements that
stick to your hair - and you have a super-effective acne
causing solution.
= Drink lots of water to clean your body of toxins and
keep your skin hydrated from the inside.
= Take vitamins and eat a healthy diet. People who
suffer from acne often don't get enough vitamin A in
their diets (you may want to consult your doctor about
that since large doses of vitamin A can be toxic). Zinc
supplements are known to fight acne outbreaks. Healthy
eating is good for all parts of your body. While diet
changes alone won't spare you of acne, they will help
your skin look better.
= See a doctor if your acne is severe.
DON'T:
= Don't use drying cleansers and harsh scrubs. They
destroy the protective barrier and alter skin pH, making
skin vulnerable and prone to infections. Astringents
should be used on oily areas only.
= Don't squeeze zits. This is the worst thing to do, and
for many the hardest to avoid. Still, if you don't want
to aggravate the condition, don't pick on your pimples.
You can, however, drain them with a sterilized needle
once they are mature.
= Don't scratch or rub your skin. Sometimes rubbing can
cause zits on otherwise clear complexion. You may want
to experiment if you are brave enough, otherwise try to
keep your hands off your face and avoid wearing hats,
helmets or bands that may cause unpleasant surprises.
= Don't tan. Even though tan will mask the blemishes,
the effect is temporary. Excessive sun exposure can
aggravate acne. Many over-the-counter and prescription
acne products make your skin sensitive to sun. In
addition to causing skin dehydration and premature
aging, UV rays destroy cells responsible for skin's
immunology
