Joe Smith asked:


Acne control has improved leaps and bounds over the years, though we still see that acne plagues teenagers and young adults everywhere. Modern medicine has certainly stepped up as the years have progressed, bringing down the occurrence a bit with prescription and over-the-counter medications.

What is the real cause of acne? As some readers might already realize, dirt, skin oil, and dead skin can all contribute to acne problems, especially for teenagers. Even teenagers with proper hygiene fall victim to acne problems, so don’t feel as though people with acne are naturally “dirty” people. In fact, the opposite is quite true. Skin oils are natural, and everyone, including those who do not have acne problems, have oil buildups regardless of hygiene habits. When oils and dirt build up enough, bacteria begins to grow in your skin’s pores, leading to what we call a “zit.”

Zits (or pimples) can be rather unsightly, so proper care should be taken to cleanse your face and body everyday regardless of how dirty you feel you’ve gotten throughout the day. Even dust in the air can contribute to acne problems, so proper care is needed on a daily basis.

What kinds of products are effective at keeping acne at bay? Certain products may actually contribute to an acne problem, so be aware of what you’re putting on your face. Using all-natural soaps or washes is your best bet, as these won’t contain chemicals or other substances that can cause your pores to clog up further. Try to use these all-natural products at least twice a day, even if you have to take a couple minutes during a school or work break to get it done. Your skin will thank you for the effort.

Other types of acne control products can be found at your local pharmacy, listed as “over-the-counter” medications. These may include chemicals that are specifically designed to unclog pores (unlike the harmful chemicals discussed above), and can greatly aid in reducing breakouts. These over-the-counter medications often come in the form of pads, washes, or creams, and can typically be used safely without a doctor’s supervision unless you’re allergic to any of the chemicals used in the product.

Finally, if your acne isn’t responding to daily washings or over-the-counter products, your doctor may prescribe you a more powerful prescription acne control drug. If you believe that you fall within this category, see your dermatologist.

I certainly hope that this article has helped you consider your various acne control options.