A Guide To Acne: Home Care Advice

Although it may be tempting to use strong agents to de-grease the oily skin caused by acne vulgaris, products containing a strong detergent or de-greasing action will only dry and irritate already sensitive skin. As a result, skin will harden and thicken over the mouth of the hair follicles making any blockages extremely difficult to remove while increasing the formation of whiteheads and blackheads.

Acne vulgaris cannot be cured but it can be controlled by following my simple home care advice:

• Ensure that the skin is kept thoroughly clean by removing excess sebum and the dirt it attracts and holds on the skin's surface.
• Never pick spots or squeeze blackheads. This not only increases the risk of scarring but will cause a secondary infection by allowing bacteria to invade through broken skin.
• Do not use harsh products on the skin. In the long term, the chemicals these particular products contain will only have an adverse reaction to acne vulgaris. Alternatively, opt for a gentle pH-balanced soap to cleanse the skin without over stimulating or increasing the risk of excessive drying.
• The face must never be dried with a towel. This provides the perfect harboring ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection and irritation. Instead, opt for a flannel which is used once prior to being washed.
• Gently steam the face twice a week. This will open pores to successfully eliminate waste which has collected in the follicles. For added restorative properties, add a few herbs in the form of chamomile and sage to the water.
• Diet should be altered to ensure that foods high in fat and sugar are removed. As a replacement, plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables should be consumed as these contain the vitamins and nutrients essential for maintaining healthy skin. It is also vital to include plenty of fibre in a balanced diet to aid the elimination of waste from the body.
• Exercise regularly in the fresh air. This will not only help to increase circulation but bring essential nutrients to the skin, removing waste more quickly.