All acne is a disorder of the pilosebaceous unit, which is made up of a hair follicle, sebaceous gland, and a hair. These units are found everywhere on the body except on the palms, soles, top of the feet, and the lower lip. The number of pilosebaceous units is greatest on the face, upper neck, and chest. Sebaceous glands produce a substance called sebum, which is responsible for keeping the skin and hair moisturized. During adolescence sebaceous glands enlarge and produce more sebum under the influence of hormones, also called androgens. After about age 20, sebum production begins to decrease. Here are some tips that may help reduce acne.
Eating right
Unhealthy and oily diet is not ideal and can cause acne. Liberal intake of water, green leafy vegetables and fruits by cutting fat in diet is suggested. Detoxify the body inside out.
Cleansing Your Face
Oil free and comedogenic medicated facial washes are good for acne prone skin. Wash the skin gently with mild cleanser with luke warm water twice daily.
Exfoliating
Pick the right scrub, exfoliants and masks from the wide variety available in market. They help to remove outer layer and open the pores. These are available in gel or granules form with salicylic acid in different concentration and works as peeling agent.
Reducing Oil
Toners and astringents wipe off that extra oil. Excess oil could be sucked out with alcohol-based toner. Though in most of the cases it is not suggested due to drying effect of alcohol, in extremities it works magically.
Using the Right Product
Products with Alpha –Hydroxy acids and glycolic acids clears the skin.
Masks with sulphur and other components also absorb oil. Benzoyl peroxide pads wipe off the superfluous oil. Creams and topical lotions with retinol, retinal, azeleic acid and retinoids could be used under the consultation of dermatologists. Moisturizer should not be acnegenic.
Use Sun Block
Sunscreen should be oil free (noncomedogenic).
Night Care
Remove make up and Wash the skin gently before going to sleep. The skin is a living tissue and needs air to breathe. Never use emollient over acne areas.
Do Not Pick Your Face
The basic rule of prevention is not to irritate acne. For cleaning and removing outbursts go to dermatologists or beauty clinic. Never pinch, rub or squeeze, as it will enhance infection leading to scarring.
Avoiding Stress
Resolve stress by right eating, chatting and mingling with friends. A good night sleep is also essential.
Exercise
Exercising helps to de-stress and increases blood circulation in the body. The oxygen penetrates to skin, which prevents acne from further developing. Shower after a workout session is obligatory to shed sweat and dirt.
Clean Cosmetics
Old contaminated makeup should be thrown away. As old expired products could be bacteria ridden. Also keep the combs clean and wash them regularly in soapy water. Remember also to clean your make up applicators on a regular basis.
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