The Most Effective Acne Prevention Method

Acne prevention is an ongoing daily battle. But it is a battle that is possible to win. Find out some of the most effective strategies.

What Exactly is Acne?

Acne is a skin condition that involves the hair and oil glands. It is basically plugged pores. These are commonly known as blackheads, whiteheads or pimples. They occur mainly on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms but can occur anywhere on the body. Hair follicles, often called pores, get blocked with sebum (oil), which normally drains to the surface, and a bacteria begins to grow. Both whiteheads and blackheads start out as a "microcomedone" which then become skin blemishes called comedones. Acne can be upsetting, disfiguring, sometimes even leading to permanent scarring.

Thinking acne is a minor problem, some people tend to totally discard the topic of acne prevention. However, the importance of acne prevention should not be overlooked.

Acne Prevention Starts before an Outbreak

Acne prevention can and should really start much before the acne actually appears. Prevention is more about being proactive than reactive. It starts with following daily skin care routines with complete discipline.

Acne prevention starts with being clean. A hot morning shower is one of the most effective ways of keeping the skin clean. A shower before bed is a good idea also (it not only helps in keeping your skin clean but also relaxes your body for a good sleep.) If you are living in a hot and/or humid area, frequent showers are a must. Showers are the first and most effective acne prevention method.

However, while important, showers are often not enough all by themselves. Wearing clean clothes and sleeping on clean sheets and pillows can go a long way toward acne prevention. Loose clothes are good also because tight clothes can cause sweat to accumulate quickly. Comfortable cotton clothes are recommended.

Don't forget to frequently clean or change your brushes, wash rags and any other grooming item you use on your body.

The Most Effective Acne Prevention Method

Always use a mild, water-soluble, soap-free and oil-free cleanser for keeping your face, neck and arms clean. This is the most important part of any acne prevention routine particularly in teenagers and those prone to outbreaks. A good face cleaner is the easiest and the most effective way of removing dirt, grease, pollutants and excess oil from your skin and unblocking your pores. It is also recommended that you remove your makeup using a make up remover before you go to bed (not in the morning.)

If you have an outbreak, do not try to squeeze them. This can lead to permanent scars. Continue to practice your acne prevention regimend of gentle cleansing and cleaning of the affected area using an over-the-counter medication and a clean/soft cotton pad. There are many good acne prevention creams and lotions available (a lot of these acne prevention products are actually cleansers).

If your acne prevention does not work and you have an servere outbreak, you may need to seek further more aggressive treatments.