Acne-prone skin care: tips and tricks

Acne-prone skin is characterized by pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, redness, inflammation and irritation. Acne-prone skin is also prone to residual color traces (hyperpigmentation) as blemishes heal which may take weeks to clear.

When treating acne, remember that acne-prone skin responds well to daily use of exfoliating AHA- and BHA- based products, along with anti-irritants, anti-inflammatories and antibacterials to alleviate excess skin cell buildup, keep pores clear and disinfect.

Best approach to acne-prone skin is to clarify existing lesions and prevent future breakouts while conditioning and protecting the skin.When washing your skin, you should use a mild cleanser once in the morning and once at night. Some people tend to scrub their skin to stop outbreaks, but scrubbing can make your skin worse.

Remember that it is important that you thoroughly rinse your skin after washing it. Using an astringent is only recommended when you have oily skin, and even then the astringent should only be applied to oily spots. Dermatologists also recommend that you wash your hair regularly if it is oily, because the oil can get on your forehead and face, and lead to breakouts.

Tea tree oil, which is derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca tree, has shown some proficiency in reducing the effects of acne. Like benzoyl peroxide, tea tree oil attacks bacteria and limits oil production, but without the adverse side effects such as itching, burning, or peeling.

Some people have also seen success with acupuncture to treat their acne. Better results are usually seen when coupled with nutritional and lifestyle changes. Be sure to talk with your medical provider about treatments you are interested in trying.

For people having acne or very oily skin, a traditional face mask made of gram flour is very useful. It not only exfoliates dead cells without harming the skin, it also dries out the excess oil and relieves the skin of stickiness. In fact, it is good to use natural cleansers on acne skin and oily skin. Orange peels are one such method which makes oily skin glow with its essential oils and drying property. You can prepare it at home by drying out an orange peel and then grinding it to a fine mix. It is especially good in summers to clean skin of excessive oil.