Acne refers to pimples, blackhead and whiteheads which appear on the face as a result of oil clogging the pores on the skin. Bacteria in these pores can trigger an immune response in the body, causing inflammation. The result is acne.

How can you keep acne away? Here are a few tips:

• Eat a healthy diet which contains plenty of fruits and vegetables. They contain antioxidants which slow down skin aging. The nutrients present in a healthy diet can boost the immune system and flush away toxins. Combine a healthy diet with exercise. A good and healthy lifestyle is the first step towards combating acne.

• Don’t keep touching your face and don’t ever try to burst pimples. This will only promote the growth and spread of bacteria, worsening your acne.

• If your hair brushes against your face, trim it or tie it with a hair band or secure it with a hair clip. Hair also contains oil and when hair brushes against your skin, it will add on to the oil content of your skin. Combine this with the oil already present on your skin and bacteria and the result is acne.

• If you notice pimples beginning to break out on your skin, apply an ice pack to it and hold it there. This will help reduce the redness and inflammation.

• Choose water based make-up over oil based ones. The cosmetics you use should be hypo allergenic. Reduce the use of cosmetics as much as possible. Light make-up is fine but not heavy make-up. At night, remove all traces of make up using a good cleanser.

• Wash your face thoroughly using a mild soap. Use unscented soap designed especially for acne prone skin.

• Skin exfoliation is also essential. Use a gentle face scrub to remove dead skin cells and dirt. You can buy a scrub from the market or make one yourself. For instance, a scrub made from oatmeal and honey can work wonders for your skin. You can also use an exfoliating pad or wet washcloth to scrub your skin.

• Get rid of blackheads by doing a steam facial. The stem will help open pores and you can squeeze out the oil and dirt clogging those pores.

• If you are using medications as part of your acne treatment regimen, stay out from the sun as much as possible. Many acne medications can cause adverse reactions when exposed to sunlight.

• Use astringent or toner to rid your skin of excess oil.

• Over the counter medications for acne usually contain benzyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Apply these creams to the blemish and the area surrounding it. Don’t use these creams too much because they can dry the skin.

• Relax. Stress is a big contributor to acne outbreaks so; stay as calm and relaxed as possible.

• Sleep well. Your body relaxes and heals when you sleep so; make sure that you get all the sleep you can.

Jonathan Pitts

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