1. DON'T TRY TO WASH IT AWAY
Acne isn't caused by dirt. In fact people with oily skin have
cleaner skin than average because they wash it more often. But it's
a fact that washing too much can make acne worse because it makes
the skin dry and sore. So, wash no more than twice a day, using mild
soap and water. If you have patches of dry skin, don't worry about
putting moisturizer on. It won't make your acne worse. If you're
still concerned, use an oil free moisturizer.
2. DON'T NUKE 'EM
There are lots of over the counter creams, gels, lotions and
potions. Most contain a powerful bleaching agent called benzoyl
peroxide. You'll find the strength written on the label. You might
be tempted to go straight for the highest sort, working on the
'let's nuke 'em principle. The likely result is that you'll irritate
your skin like mad. It may also go all dry and scaly on you. But if
you still are willing to bleach then use the mild one.
3. MAKE A DATE - THE TWO MONTH RULE
If you have been using over the counter remedies for two months and
there is no real improvement in your spots, this is the moment to go
and make an appointment with your doc.
4. YOUR DOCTOR - THE TWO MONTH RULE
The thing you are most likely to be given by the doctor is a
prescription for antibiotics. These will either be topical (which
means something you put on your skin) or tablets you have to take
every day. Whatever treatment your doctor or pharmacist recommends,
follow the instructions carefully and keep using for at least two
months. There should be a noticeable improvement by this time. If
not, go back to discuss other possible treatments Antibiotics are
perfectly safe to take. You should take them for at least two months
and then go back to your doc. If they seem to be working, he will
probably tell you to keep taking them and give you some more. If
they aren't doing their stuff, don't despair - he has loads of other
spot busters in his black bag.
5. YOU ARE NOT AN ALIEN - BUT JUST BE PATIENT
Hundreds of thousands of teenagers seek help for acne. You are not
alone. You are not an alien. And if people really care about you,
they don't even notice your acne, however bad you think they are.
But you will need to be patient. Most treatments take time to work.
At least two months. And some treatments, like antibiotics will work
well but may have to be taken for months, or even years.
6. THE MONTHLY CURSE... OR EXAMS
Acne does tend to get worse just before a period. It's because there
is a surge in hormone levels at this time. But boys don't get away
lightly either. Being hot and sweaty (particularly after sports like
football) makes acne worse. And for everyone, stress - particularly
at exam times - is a cue for a mega breakout. This is normal - and
of course, even more reason for feeling stressed. Go chill. They'll
get better - promise.
7. WATCH WHAT YOU PUT ON YOUR SKIN AND HAIR
Some beauty products are big no-nos. These include pomades and
defrizzing agents for hair that tend to cause an outcrop of
blackheads along the hairline and some of the heavier cosmetics. And
be wary of suntan oils. Not all will make you break out, but some
may. Try a friend's first before you buy. By the way, the sun might
dry up acne and a tan might hide them, but your skin is still
vulnerable in the sun and needs protection.
8. CARRY ON KISSING
You can't catch acne during kissing - go for it!
9. CARRY ON EATING CHOCOLATE
It's a myth that eating chocolate and fried foods causes acne.
However, eating a good diet improves your general well-being and
this is reflected in your skin.
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