Tips and treatments for skin care and acne

Very few of us are blessed with a perfect skin. Most people have to struggle with a variety of skin problems ranging from common conditions such as acne vulgaris, cellulite, dry or oily skin and sun damage to serious skin issues which include dermographism, keratosis, skin cancer and impetigo. And those who have been lucky enough to escape everything else have to inevitably put up with the signs of ageing that include wrinkles, crow’s feet, fine lines and sagging facial skin. Acne, in particular, is one of the most commonly experienced skin conditions that usually occurs during teenage years but is known to persist or recur even during adulthood. The following tips can help you make your skin care treatments more effective.

Tips for better skin care

• The treatment of any other skin condition begins with good skin care.
• Most dermatologists advise washing sensitive skin with a gentle, alcohol-free and non-abrasive cleanser no more than twice a day. The cleanser needs to be thoroughly washed off with lukewarm water.
• Oily hair can also aggravate skin problems, so it is essential to shampoo your hair regulary
• Using skin care products or cosmetics on your skin is okay as long as you use products that are suitable for your skin type.
• Moisturizers help in soothing irritated skin, so use an oil-free noncomedogenic moisturizer if you have dry skin.
• Avoid using mesh sponges, washcloths or anything that is likely to irritate the skin and cause acne breakouts.
• Scrubbing too can irritate your skin and make your condition worse.
• Rubbing alcohol, astringents and tanning will not clear your acne or reduce blemishes.
• Many people use exfoliators, astringents, toners and masks to get rid of skin problems but these products will not only worsen your case but also cause adverse reactions against prescription medications.
• The use of greasy hair and skin care products is not recommended during acne treatment because they tend to seep into the skin and clog pores.
• Popping, picking or squeezing pimples is a strict no-no since it prolongs the healing process and leads to scarring.
• Do not touch your skin frequently to avoid breakouts.
• Protection from direct sunlight is essential to control most skin conditions. Dermatologists recommend the use of sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30, even on cloudy days.
• Never try to shave off acne as it will only aggravate your condition.

Acne treatment for better skin

Mild cases of acne can be treated by washing the affected area twice a day with a gentle cleanser and applying an over-the-counter medicated cream. Your dermatologist might recommend vitamin supplements for improved skin tone. Treatment for moderate acne consists of physical treatments such as light or extraction therapies as well as prescription treatments like Retin a cream or BenzaClin topical gel. Oral contraceptive pills are often prescribed for moderate acne. Treatment for severe acne includes oral antibiotics, drainage techniques and surgical incisions. Your dermatologist may even prescribe corticosteroid injections, depending on the severity of your case.