How to Reduce Acne Problem
- You shouldn ’ t squeeze, pick, scratch, or rub your skin as it makes the problem worse, and it might even cause scarring.
- Regularly shampoo your hair, and try to keep it off your face if possible - especially at night.
- Keep a food diary to work out if you are one of the few people whose acne gets worse if they eat certain things.
- Exercise regularly to get the old blood flowing, and make sure you get a wash as soon after as possible.
- Avoid unnecessarily touching your face.
- If possible, try to minimize your stress levels.
- Avoid getting sunburned.
- Change your wash cloth every day, as bacteria can grow on damp cloth.
- Wash your face twice a day with a gentle soap like Dove or Lever 2000.
- Always rinse really well with lots of water.
- Only wear makeup on special occasions, and then make sure you remove it completely.
- Granular facial scrub can make acne worse by aggravating the skin.
Medication for Extreme Cases
Oral antibiotics
Oral antibiotics have a high success rate, and can be safely used for up to a year. It can take up to six months to fully take effect, but there should be a noticeable difference within six weeks. Oral Antibiotics include erythromycin, minocycline and tetracycline
Antibacterial cream
Benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria which causes inflammation. It is available over the counter in 2.5%, 5% and 10% creams and lotions. It is available in gels in the same percentages but only by prescription. Clinically, there’s not much difference between the effectiveness of the various strengths and types used.
NOTE: Unfortunately, there can be some side effects of the use of Benzyol peroxide, including hypersensitivity, irritation, and contact dermatitis (although these are very rare). Remember to always keep Benzoyl peroxide away from clothing as it has a bleaching effect.
