Keeping Acne at Bay
Various treatment options, including prescription products and other therapies,
are available to manage acne. In addition to medical treatment, there are
some guidelines you can follow to help keep acne at bay.
Nonmedical ways to help keep acne at bay
In addition to medications you take by mouth or apply to your
skin, you can also try some nonmedical approaches to help keep acne at bay.
Cleanliness: Although acne is not caused by dirt, it is important
to wash your face every day. Use a mild cleanser and warm
water. Don't scrub. Gently dry your face by patting with a
soft, clean towel.
Food/Diet: Some people believe that certain foods may cause
acne, though this has not been proven. Nevertheless, it is important
to pay attention to your body. If you notice that your acne
gets worse when you eat certain foods, you may want to avoid or
limit your consumption of that food or consult with your doctor.
Cosmetics: You should wear as little makeup as possible.
Many cosmetics contain oil. This oil can cause your acne to get
worse. If you wear cosmetics, choose products labeled as
"noncomedogenic" (should not cause whiteheads or
blackheads) or "nonacnegenic" (should not cause acne).
Be sure to remove makeup every night by washing it off
with a mild soap or cleanser and warm water.
Picking: Don't pick or squeeze your acne. Squeezing or picking
pimples or lesions speeds the breaking down of follicle walls and forces the
dead cells and other material contained within deeper into the skin. This can
lead to more inflammation and scarring.