Acne is a problem that millions of people have to deal with every single day; and contrary to common beliefs, it is hardly a problem restricted to teenagers. Huge numbers of adults have to deal with it too, either daily or at certain times of the month. Luckily, with a little care and know-how, acne can be overcome.
Probably the most important step in overcoming acne, as so many body imbalances, is adjusting your diet. Many of us, especially in America, do not eat nearly enough fresh fruits and vegetables, and far too many artificial ingredients - including things that might appear 'natural' at first, like hydrogenated oils, a huge contributor to acne problems. Including plenty of water, fresh fruits and veggies, and the essential vitamins your body and skin need will go a long way towards reducing acne breakouts. Avoid large amounts of meat and fried foods. Unfortunately, hand-in-hand with this is a reduction in the intake of caffeine, sugar, and refined carbohydrates. Avoid caffeinated coffee, tea, and sodas whenever possible. Reduce the intake of bread, pasta and potatoes.
The more obvious places to stage your attack on acne is in your daily skin care regime. Avoid artificial and harsh ingredients in your skin care. Such things as alcohol, isopropyl myristate, lanolin, sodium lauryl sulphate, sodium laureth sulphate, propylene glycol, mineral oil, benzoyl peroxide and parabens are far more damaging than helpful.
And don't be afraid of using something just because 'it's an oil'! Certain oils which are close to your skin's natural, healthy oil are wonderful for problem skin. These include coconut oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, and evening primrose oil. There are also a large number of essential oils that are beneficial, including lavender, tea tree, rose, carrot, eucalyptus, thyme, geranium, juniper, lemon, and orange.
Be sure to remove all makeup from your skin every night. Using 'acne friendly' makeup products can help, but you still have to be sure to remove them.
And of course, especially in adults, reducing stress is hugely important. Exercise, especially things like yoga and tai-chi - and of course simple aerobics, like walking - and stress-reduction techniques like meditation and deep-breathing exercises, can make a big difference.
Another big helper for this is simply spending time out in the sunshine and fresh air. Sunshine helps stimulate your body to create vitamin D, a vitamin essential for healthy skin. A good 15 minute walk outside can accomplish both this and the exercise you need. Don't let your skin burn though! Sunburnt skin creates a thicker outer layer, which can further block your pores.
And one tip that most wouldn't think of: wash your sheets, and especially your pillowcase, frequently. In the case of the pillowcase, as often as every other day. Both your skin and your hair deposit oils on your pillowcase all night, redistributing it onto your skin, potentially causing more breakouts!
For more information, see my article on Simple Recipes for Blemished Skin
Also of interest is my article, An Overview of Vitamins for Healthy Skin.
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