Acne is a skin condition that leads to the formation of bumps on the skin. These bumps, referred to as blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, pimples or zits, appear on the face and body. The pores of the skin become clogged with a mixture of sebum, a natural oil produced by the skin, dead skin cells and bacteria, according to the book Breaking Out: A Woman's Guide to Coping with Acne at Any Age.
Don't Pick
Although it may be tempting, avoid squeezing, scratching, scrubbing or rubbing the pimples caused by acne. The short-term effects include increased redness and inflammation due to poking them. There is also a possibility of infection if they open, as stated by Acne for Dummies. Your hands also produce oils, which may exacerbate the existing problem. The American Medical Association Boy's Guide to Becoming a Teen cautions that the long-term effects of picking at acne are much more permanent: Popping pimples can lead to permanent scarring.
Avoid Foundation
For those embarrassed by their condition, foundation makeup may seem like an ideal choice, but covering your face with beauty products may make acne worse by clogging the pores and reducing the air flow to the inflamed site. If you can't forgo makeup altogether, try using a concealer paired with a tinted moisturizer or powder. Look for products labeled "oil-free," "noncomedogenic" or "nonacnegenic." These products are less likely to clog pores and contribute to acne breakouts.
Follow a Routine
A good skin care routine is crucial to preventing and reducing the effects of acne. Wash your face two times a day with warm water and a mild soap to remove sebum, the oil your skin produces that clogs pores. Avoid scrubbing your face or subjecting it to harsh products. Scrubbing the skin worsens irritation to the skin and pores, according to the TeensHealth website. There are a number of over-the-counter products available to help reduce the appearance of acne, most of which contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Some of these products contain pigments to cover pimples or reduce the appearance of acne. If you decide to use a product or soap with one of these ingredients, follow the manufacturer's directions. The Beauty Prescription suggests that using more of an acne-fighting product than recommended may dry out skin, leading to an overproduction of sebum, which worsens the condition.
See a Professional
If your acne is severe and basic skin care or over-the-counter products are not working, speak to a licensed dermatologist about the treatment options available. Acne is painful and can have lasting effects on your skin. A dermatologist can prescribe treatment or offer suggestions tailored to your skin type and lifestyle. Acne For Dummies states that for professional advice about which beauty products to use with severe acne, seek out a medical esthetician. A medical esthetician is a skin care professional trained to work with a variety of medical conditions.
References
- Breaking Out: A Woman's Guide to Coping with Acne at Any Age; Lydia Preston, Tina Alster; 2004
- Acne For Dummies; Herbert P. Goodheart; 2006
- American Medical Association Boy's Guide to Becoming a Teen by American Medical Association; Kate Gruenwald Pfeifer. Amy B. Middleman; 2006
- TeensHealth: Why Do I Get Acne?
- The Beauty Prescription: The Complete Formula for Looking and Feeling Beautiful; Debra Luftman, Eva Ritvo; 2008
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