Over 80 percent of people between the age of 11 and 30 have trouble with acne, making it one of the most common skin problems on earth. Because acne is influenced in great part by your hormones, it is nearly impossible to avoid ever having a pimple or blackhead. However, that is no reason to suffer through regular breakouts -- and it is no reason to put up with the discomfort and embarrassment that frequently accompany breakouts. Whether you have mild, moderate, or severe acne, there are steps you can take to reduce the amount of acne you experience. (Of course, if you would classify your acne as severe, or even moderate, then it is likely in your best interest to get in contact with a dermatologist, who can better understand the causes of your problem and prescribe a powerful and personally-fitted solution.) Here are a few steps you can take from home that should help reduce your acne.
1. Establish a Cleansing Routine. Regularly cleaning and exfoliating your skin can help prevent the harmful buildup of dead skin and natural oils that tends to cause infection. Cleansing too often, however, is not helpful, and can even cause excessive dryness and irritation, which will lead to more, not less, acne. This is why establishing a routine (and sticking with it) is the best way to go.
2. Use Makeup and Beauty Products Wisely. Leaving makeup on overnight is bad news for your skin, so be sure to remove makeup before going to bed. (As difficult as this may be after a long day, your skin will thank you!) Also, if your skin is easily irritated, consider purchasing a hypoallergenic makeup set.
3. Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices. Getting enough sleep, eating right, and exercising regularly all boost your immune system and reduce stress -- two positive factors that will in turn reduce your risk for a breakout.
4. Find an Effective Acne Treatment Product. There are a number of distinct acne products out there: benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are two of the most well- known and highly-effective over the counter acne treatments out there.
5. Moisturize. Many acne treatment products can cause dryness, which is why most dermatologists recommend accompanying an acne treatment plan with a moisturizer.