How to Prevent Acne Breakouts

Pimples, blackheads, zits, whiteheads, pustules, papules and cysts, are all forms of acne. Acne appears on the skin due to a number of factors such as when there is excess production of sebum by the sebaceous glands, when the person experiences stress, if there are certain hormonal imbalances, or sometimes it may be hereditary too. Once acne appears on the skin, it is very difficult to get rid of it. Thus, nipping acne in the bud. i.e. acne prevention, is a much better option. Here are some methods, followed by a few useful tips on the same.

Cleanse, Scrub and Moisturize
A major cause of an acne breakout could be accumulation of dirt and oil in the skin pores, combined with the dead skin. In order to avoid that, cleaning the skin properly, on a daily basis, and scrubbing it once a week, to get rid of the excess dead skin is very necessary. If you have an oily or sensitive skin, use a mild, herbal cleanser, preferably a neem soap, instead of the ones with strong chemicals. Remember to keep the acne prone skin always well hydrated and moisturized as dry skin can sometimes aggravate acne.

Salicylic Acid
Applying a two percent Salicylic acid solution on the skin, helps in getting rid of the dead skin cells, which might otherwise clog the pores, resulting in an acne breakout. So one of the most effective acne prevention home remedies is to treat the skin with salicylic acid solution, post cleansing.

Medication
If you want to prevent acne breakouts medically, then medicines such as Retin-A and Accutane can be taken with a doctor's prescription. These medicines are very beneficial for the skin, and their regular usage helps in preventing acne, getting rid of fine lines, and delaying the appearance of wrinkles. Application of certain topical creams available in the market, helps in treating the existing pimples as well as preventing the acne in future.

Salon Treatments
Certain salon treatments, such as alpha hydroxy glycolic peels, are especially meant to reduce acne. In this treatment, glycolic acid is applied to the face. Later, it is peeled off the skin, along with the upper dead skin layer. This helps in freshening up and rejuvenation of the skin, preventing all kinds of skin problems, including acne.

Natural Remedies
Here are three very effective natural acne cures. Apply the juice of a grated cucumber on your face, once a week to avoid pimples. Aloe vera juice is equally effective in preventing and curing acne. Applying egg white, once a week will make the skin acne free, as well as prevent dryness.

Acne Prevention Tips

• Do not touch the skin areas which are affected by acne with your fingers, as it can spread the infection to other skin areas as well.
• Maintain hygiene i.e., use clean bed sheets, pillow cases and towels. Dirty towels can be the breeding ground of germs and bacteria, thereby causing severe cases of acne breakouts.
• Dandruff and oil in hair can cause acne too, so to prevent that, avoid doing such hair styles which make your hair touch or fall on your face.
• Exercise everyday as it helps in proper blood circulation, and adequate transfer of oxygen to all the body cells. Exercising will help in both reducing stress and preventing acne.
• Take shower after undertaking any kind of exercise or physical activity to prevent dirt and sweat from getting accumulated in the skin pores.
• Drink lots of fluids and water as it will help in elimination of wastes and toxins from the body, resulting in a blemish free, glowing skin.

Besides these, applying a sunscreen when going out in the peak sun hours, i.e., between eleven a.m. to three p.m. is very essential too. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet with sufficient vitamins, proteins, carbohydrates and fats included in it, is the key to a glowing, fresh, blemish-free, clean skin.