No Acne ? Prevent it ? or Get it ? Read 10 Tips for Preventing Acne

Acne is a common skin condition in adolescents and sometimes in adults too. It has deep repercussions as being the most important cosmetic issue for the long-suffering persons. Acne can be mild or severe. In any case, it causes emotional trauma and dents one's self-esteem.

How acne is caused?

Our skin consists of several layers of cells. There are tiny glands in the deeper layers that secrete oil to lubricate the skin. The oil spouts out through the tiny pores on the outer layer.

During the robust period of growth noticed in teenagers, these glands work overtime and secrete more oil. These oils tend to clog the pores when the skin is exposed to dirt or pollution. The closed up pores are also prone to infection by bacteria. The result is acne.

Can acne be cured?

Let us be clear that acne is not a disease. It is just a normal phenomenon in growing up. Hence, one does not have to rush for magic potions to cure acne. Any such claims are well, false. Only a healthy diet coupled with proper skin care can prevent acne or at least minimize its impact. Here is a list of 10 tips for preventing acne.

1) Wash your face and upper neck with gentle soap twice or thrice a day, preferably with warm water. You must definitely wash after you get indoors from a stint outside exposed to dust, sun and strong winds. Wipe yourself dry gently and do not rub vigorously as this could irritate the pores.

2) Do not change your soap often. Choose one that suits your skin type and stick to it. Herbal soaps containing basil, neem or aloe are the safest.

3) Keep the use of make up to the minimum. Remove make up as soon as you get back from the outing. Do not leave make up on when you retire for the night.

4) Follow a regimen of cleansing and moisturizing at least twice a week. Exfoliation, which means removal of dead cells, is another name for cleansing. Use a scrub or peel or a lotion for this purpose. Moisturizing should always follow cleansing. You could use natural moisturizers like milk cream or sandal paste.

5) Caring for your hair would go a long way in preventing acne. Keep your hair clean and wash off accumulated dirt with a gentle shampoo twice a week. Massaging with non-greasy oil improves blood circulation to the roots and prevents dandruff. Treat dandruff with a selenium-based shampoo.

6) Small changes in diet can result in impressive results for reduction in acne. Include plenty of green, leafy vegetables and fruits, sprouts and whole grain breads. Cut down on caffeine and alcohol as these stimulate the glands to secrete more oil. Bid goodbye to aerated soft drinks, potato chips and deep fried food. Pastries, cakes and chocolates can aggravate acne.

7) Obesity is also a risk factor for acne. A high fiber-low carbohydrate diet coupled with aerobic exercise can achieve significant weight reduction. Exercise increases heart rate and causes burning of excess fat. It improves circulation and allows the pores to breathe.

8) Drink plenty of fluids, at least 10 glasses a day, in the form of water and fresh fruit juices. Avoid adding sugar or salt to the juices and stay away from tinned juices.

9) Reduce the impact of stress in personal or professional situations. Practice deep breathing exercises or yoga or meditation to relieve from stress. Make positive changes to your working style or in personal interactions.

10) Last, but not the least, develop a positive cheerful attitude. Accept whatever life offers you and make the best of it. When you are happy, it shows - on your face!