Advice Information

Acne Prevention Tips for Day to Day Skin Care

May 28, 2007 on 7:07 am | In Advice |

Any treatment for your acne should be accompanied by a healthy skin care routine.

• Wash the affected area twice a day with mild soap. Use soap such as Dove, or one that contains benzoyl peroxide, such as Oxy-5. Wash as often necessary to keep the area clean. Do not scrub.
• Shampoo the hair regularly.
• Keep long hair off the face and shoulders and wash it daily.
• Avoid shaving as much as possible; while shaving take care to avoid nicking the pimples.
• Use a fresh shaving blade to minimize the chance of spreading the infection.
• Avoid use of make-up or cosmetics in areas prone to acne. If you have to wear make-up, use only the hypoallergenic or fragrance free kind.
• Don’t pop, pick, scratch, or squeeze your pimples. This may cause infection and scarring.
• You may use an over-the-counter treatment that contain substances such as benzoyl peroxide (gel or cream) or salicyclic acid. Start with the lowest strength and apply once a day about half an hour after washing. Never use more than 5 percent strength without consulting a physician.
• Food and Nutrition Recommendations for Acne: Many doctors believe that acne is not a food related problem. Some alternate practitioners use diet as a basis for their treatment of acne. They recommend that acne patients should eat foods high in beta-carotene, such as carrots, pumpkin, cantaloupe and other yellow-orange fruits and vegetables. They should also avoid fatty foods.