Dealing With Acne

• In treating acne, start with the mildest medication, such as a 2.5 percent solution of benzoyl peroxide. Check the label to make sure the product does not contain lanolin or mineral oil. If the skin tolerates this mild solution but the acne does not improve, try 5 percent strength. When using any benzoyl peroxide, avoid the area around the eyes. Persistent acne may require a prescription medication; consult a dermatologist.
• check your medications. Dilantin, cortisone, and other steroids, and hormone preparations, including birth control pills and estrogen, commonly trigger acne. If you are taking any of these drugs, pay extra attention to your skin.
• Iodides and fluorides (found in kelp, spinach, seaweed, shellfish, and iodized salt) may worsen problem skin.
• Although some foods can aggravate acne, chocolate is not one of them. Numerous studies show that even large amounts of chocolate will not provoke outbreaks!
• Working out may also mean breaking out, especially at the start of an exercise program, when the skin is not used to increased sweat and oil. Remove makeup before exercising, change out of damp clothes afterward, and spritz your face with water or toner if you can not shower right away. Wipe off a communal gym mat (with alcohol if possible) before using it.
• Cosmetics may contribute to acne problems. Buy products labeled "noncomedogenic" which means that they are free of oil and other ingredients that can clog pores.
• Noncomedogenic moisturizers and sunscreens are also available. Always use moisturizers sparingly.
• certain hair-care products (mousses, conditioners, sprays) may lead to skin outbreaks. Stay away from those that list oils among the ingredients.
• Dirty makeup brushes can harbor bacteria and germs. At least twice a month, soak brushes for 10 minutes in a dish of warm, soapy water (use a liquid, antibacterial soap). Then rinse them thoroughly and blot them dry with a clean towel. Stand brushes, handle ends down, in a glass until they are completely dry.
• Does your chin, check, or forehead break out? Notice whether you tend to rest it in the palm of your hand (or with the chin, against a telephone receiver). If so, change this habit.
• Lip balm can cause acne or blackheads around the mouth. Check your brand; if it cintains mineral oil, buy another kind without that ingredient.
• Men with acne should shave as seldom as possible and always use a sharp blade. A translucent, rather than opaque, shaving gel will help you to see sensitive areas.