What to Do if You Have Acne

Every little thing counts when it comes to fighting acne and keeping it

under control. After all, zits are not that big themselves, they just bug

us in a big way. We don't always realize that seemingly insignificant

things can help us look better (or worse, depending on what they are),

while intentionally following myths, we do more harm than good to the

skin.

Here are a few things to consider if you don't want to see those pimples

pop up.

DO:

= Clean your face twice a day. Use a cleanser that is designed for your

skin type and avoid harsh and irritating products. When cleaning your

skin and rinsing it with water (make sure to use plenty!), move from the

neck to the hairline - that way you are not likely to spread hair build

up over your face, as it can aggravate acne.

= If you work out and sweat, clean your face after you exercise.

= Use a moisturizer for your skin type. Even if your skin is oily, don't

ignore this important part of your daily routine. Your skin needs

protection. Overdrying your skin will not do any good: on the contrary,

the oil glands will start working even harder.

= Choose cosmetics made for your skin type.

= Use products with fruit acids. They help to shed old skin cells and

prevent pore clogging. You are not likely to see the results overnight,

but be patient and stick to the treatment - you will be pleasantly

surprised.

= Protect your skin from wind and harsh environment as they make skin

prone to infections.

= Shampoo your hair regularly. Oil glands on your scalp produce the same

sebum as those on your face. Add hair care products residues and

environmental elements that stick to your hair - and you have a

super-effective acne causing solution.

= Drink lots of water to clean your body of toxins and keep your skin

hydrated from the inside.

= Take vitamins and eat a healthy diet. People who suffer from acne often

don't get enough vitamin A in their diets (you may want to consult your

doctor about that since large doses of vitamin A can be toxic). Zinc

supplements are known to fight acne outbreaks. Healthy eating is good for

all parts of your body. While diet changes alone won't spare you of acne,

they will help your skin look better.

= See a doctor if your acne is severe.

DON'T:

= Don't use drying cleansers and harsh scrubs. They destroy the

protective barrier and alter skin pH, making skin vulnerable and prone to

infections. Astringents should be used on oily areas only.

= Don't squeeze zits. This is the worst thing to do, and for many the

hardest to avoid. Still, if you don't want to aggravate the condition,

don't pick on your pimples. You can, however, drain them with a

sterilized needle once they are mature.

= Don't scratch or rub your skin. Sometimes rubbing can cause zits on

otherwise clear complexion. You may want to experiment if you are brave

enough, otherwise try to keep your hands off your face and avoid wearing

hats, helmets or bands that may cause unpleasant surprises.

= Don't tan. Even though tan will mask the blemishes, the effect is

temporary. Excessive sun exposure can aggravate acne. Many

over-the-counter and prescription acne products make your skin sensitive

to sun. In addition to causing skin dehydration and premature aging, UV

rays destroy cells responsible for skin's immunology