Coping With Acne

1. Keep the affected area clean, but do not wash the skin more than twice a day (preferably just once at the end of the day if you are not wearing make-up): excessive washing may actually precipitate acne.

2. There is no reason not to wear make-up provided that you remove all traces of it at the end of each day. Choose a light cleanser, preferably a lotion, unperfumed if your skin is sensitive. Follow up with a mild toner (too much alcohol in a toner may cause irritation and drying), preferably lightly medicated (antiseptic).

3. Ointments, creams, lotions and gels may be of some help in mild cases of acne, but can cause irritation because their action is normally abrasive of peeling to prevent blockage of the sebaceous glands. Use sparingly, only on affected areas. The types which have been found to be most effective contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or retinoic acid (vitamin A).

4. There is no very good evidence that diet effects acne. Some individuals, however, are adversely affected by some foods such as chocolate: experiment for yourself.

5. Natural ultraviolet light usually benefits acne sufferers: acne is usually better in summer. Sunray lamps may be helpful, but should be used carefully, with exposure time being built up gradually. The dangers of over-exposure to ultraviolet light should not be forgotten. The required effect is mild peeling, not burning: too much sunlight can be bad for the skin.

6. Antibiotics suppress acne successfully without curing it completely. Tetracyclines are most widely used, often over several months, ranging from 8 weeks to 6 months or more, in small doses. Their effectiveness suggests that bacteria may play a significant part in the development of acne. It is important to take these drugs on an empty stomach, half an hour before meals, with water, for maximum absorption. Do not take during pregnancy.

7. Synthetic hormones, usually in the form of the contraceptive pill, can be used. The female hormone oestrogen in the combines pill can reduce sebum production. Anti-androgens are a new hormonal treatment which can be helpful in resistant acne. The anti-androgen cyproterone acetate, is combined with oestrogen in a pill which is both an anti-acne and a contraceptive pill.

8. Dermabrasion and chemical peeling can be used to help remove scarring as a result of severe acne which is no longer active. Dermabrasion is used in selected cases, chemical peeling particularly for pitted and 'icepick' scars. Rarely, severe scars can be used to plump up depressions left after acne has gone.

9. Try Oriyen Phyto Essence.It is a range of skincare using proven Chinese herbs for smooth, clear, porcelain skin. Enhanced with natural fragrances, these formulas have been tried and tested with good results. 

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