AnnieCoop | 
08 25th, 2011| 
I have delayed writing about acne and acne products because so many other websites cover the topic and there is such an abundance of acne products available through online stores. I also feel that anyone with acne should first see a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis.
Before going over our recommended skin care routine using recommended acne products for people with acne, some background information will be provided. Acne is a continuous cycle consisting of:
(1) excess oil and dead skin cells and clogged pores;
(2) acne bacteria grow and flourish behind the blocked pore;
(3) inflammation and swelling result.
This is what occurs when you have a breakout. The acne cycle starts 2 to 3 weeks before you can actually see the breakout.
Types of acne
There are different types of acne from mild to severe. The non-inflammatory acne states are whiteheads and blackheads, which are not dirt, but instead the effect of oxidation and light refraction.
The inflammatory acne conditions are: (1) Papules – small, firm, pink bumps that may be tender to the touch; (2) Pustules – small, round bumps filled with white or yellow pus in the center; (3) Cystic Acne or Nodules – large, inflamed, pus-filled and painful cyst-like nodules.
I am not going to discuss over-the-counter (benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid) and prescription acne medications (e.g., Tazorac, Avage, Avita, Retin-A, Renova) in this article. The purpose of this article is to discuss a daily skin care regimen that will give your skin what it needs to control the acne cycle. You should go to your doctor or a dermatologist to discuss your acne and s/he may recommend a prescription medication you apply to your skin or take by mouth.
Fighting the causes of acne can help get rid of pimples. Things you can do to help prevent acne breakouts are:
- Reduce oil on the skin
- Exfoliate to prevent dead skin cells from clogging pores
- Disinfect to kill bacteria on the skin
The above ways of fighting acne are addressed in our recommended skin care regimen. You need to follow these steps:
(1) Cleanse your face to remove excess sebum from the surface of your skin. Gently wash your face with a mild cleanser. Use a soft circular motion with your hands. Do this in your morning shower, if possible.
(2) After cleansing, either exfoliate or go straight to disinfection. Many people skip exfoliation. Gently exfoliate your skin 3 times a week. After cleansing and/or exfoliating, gently pat your face with a towel. Allow 5-10 minutes for your skin to dry. Then apply a 2.5% benzoyl peroxide product. Neutrogena On-The-Spot Acne Treatment is a good product for disinfection. If you choose to exfoliate, be sure to read the blog article, Exfoliate Your Facial Skin – A Vital Part of Your Skin Care Routine (January 18), for instructions.
(3) The final step is to moisturize. You must moisturize because the benzoyl peroxide will dry your skin. Some people get dry and flaky skin which is almost as bad as the acne. You have to be careful which moisturizer you choose because many contain heavy oils that can cause or worsen acne outbreaks. Also, use a non-medicated moisturizer.
Gently apply it and you should see and feel that is has a good water content. It glides over your skin and is quickly absorbed without leaving any greasy feeling. Remember to apply a thin layer of moisturizer to your face, concentrating on your cheeks. Don’t rub your skin because rubbing can irritate the skin and make it worse. Be gentle.
You can can purchase an acne products kit with sample sizes products for oily or acne prone skin.
(Click product to get details)
Murad Anti-Aging Acne Starter Kit – 4-piece set – Murad Skin Care Products
Now you are ready to apply make up.
And practice good hygiene. DON’T put your fingers on your face. Keep your hands away from your face. Pull back your hair from your face too. Change pillowcases often.
