What is an Acne?
Acne is a skin condition that causes pimples or "zits." This includes
whiteheads, blackheads, and red, inflammed patches of skin.
SELF-CARE
Steps you can take to help your acne:
* Clean
your skin gently with a mild, nondrying soap (such as Dove, Neutrogena,
Cetaphil, CeraVe, or Basics). Remove all dirt or make-up. Wash once or
twice a day, including after exercising. However, avoid scrubbing or
repeated skin washing.
* Shampoo your hair daily, especially if it is oily. Comb or pull your hair back to keep the hair out of your face.
What NOT to do:
* Try
not to squeeze, scratch, pick, or rub the pimples. Although it might be
tempting to do this, it can lead to skin infections and scarring.
* Avoid wearing tight headbands, baseball caps, and other hats
* Avoid touching your face with your hands or fingers.
*Avoid
greasy cosmetics or creams. Take off make-up at night. Look for
water-based or "noncomedogenic" formulas. Noncomedogenic products have
been tested and proven not to clog pores and cause acne.
If
these steps do not clear up the blemishes, try over-the-counter acne
medications. You apply these products directly to your skin.
* They may contain benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic acid.
* They work by killing bacteria, drying up skin oils, or causing the top layer of your skin to peel.
* They may cause redness or peeling of the skin.
A
small amount of sun exposure may improve acne a little, but mostly it
just hides the acne. However, too much exposure to sunlight or
ultraviolet rays is not recommended because it increases the risk for
skin cancer.
