Understanding the Steps To Acne Free Skin

Acne sufferers all want one thing - clear beautiful skin. They will try all kinds of lotions, washes, preparations and ointments in the search for achieving acne free skin. The key to getting that perfect skin begins with understanding the causes of acne. Eliminate the causes of acne and you can say goodbye to acne woes and hello to clear beautiful skin. There are a number of commercial, herbal, and homeopathic treatments for acne available on the market today. It is wise to ask your doctor or dermatologist before using any of these for the first time.

Common Treatments:

Herbs are great for reducing redness, and preventing the development of scars that can remain after the acne heals. Echinacea and poke root can be used for their anti-inflammatory properties to reduce redness. Witch hazel has been used for years for its ability to act as an astringent.

Retin-A and alpha hydroxy acids have been used to treat acne and to heal and prevent future outbreaks of acne. Two common ingredients in over-the-counter acne medications are glycolic and lactic acids, which work to remove dead skin cells. You should always check the label and read any instructions about a product before using it. Some acne products are not safe to use during pregnancy, so be careful about any preparations you are using if you are pregnant or think that you may become pregnant while taking the treatments.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) can be used on all skin types and are good cleansers to use for healing and for preventing acne. They are natural acids that come from fruits, milk sugars and plants. AHAs work by removing the dead layer of skin so that you can experience the newer layer of skin underneath very much like facials.

An unnatural rate of oil production that can result in large irritated bumps that hide pustules underneath the surface of the skin is a condition called cystic acne. This condition can last for a very long time. If you suspect that you may have cyctic acne please make an appointment with your doctor or dermatologist.

Harsh skin products can actually make your acne worse so stay away from any skin product that you cannot pronounce. Natural remedies are becoming more popular because they are mild and cause no harm to the skin.

Take a good look around your place of employment to be sure that there are no air-borne irritants that may be causing your acne.

Healthy skin is nourished by a diet that is rich in fruits, whole grains, plenty of water and vegetables. To be healthy your skin requires that you also get lots of rest, exercise and make every effort to reduce the stress in your life. Doing all you can do to help your skin stay healthy will also allow it to be acne free.

While you are waiting to heal, you can conceal acne by using a complimentary foundation (makeup) that is oil-free or water-based. Make sure that you remove this makeup prior to going to sleep.

If you want to have acne free skin you need to follow a daily skin regimen. This regimen should include: cleansing your skin at least twice a day (more if really oily) with mild soap and clean water, pore unclogging methods (strips, facials), removing oil from your face with an astringent or by cleansing, staying stress-free, and eating a nutritious diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plenty of water (at least 8 - 8 oz. glasses each day). Exercise is important for healthy skin.

Take these steps for good skincare and you will minimize the occurrence of acne and see clearer more beautiful skin.