Spots, pimples, whiteheads, blackheads and cysts - all names we use to describe acne. Most are caused by blocked skin pores. There is no one fool proof method to clearing up acne. We all have different skin types and different reactions to our food intake, environment and cleansing routines so successful treatment can be a case of trial and error.

Treatments can be divided into two approaches. The first is opening any pores that are blocked. This is great for small pimples and irregular occurrences. The second method of treating acne focuses on treating what caused those pores to block in the first place. The second method is essential if you have bad acne or repeated occurrences of acne.


The following are the most common cures. Not all will work on you so try each and mix and match until you find something that works.

Cleanliness
Wash your face thoroughly with warm soapy water. Change the type of soap you use as you may be having a reaction to ingredients within the soap. Washing helps open pores and allows our skin to breathe easier. Never overwash the affected areas - this removes essential oils and your body may go into overdrive producing more. Meaning more clogged cells and further acne. Washing two times daily is recommended - irregardless of how oily your skin may be.

Don't pick
Spots can be great fun to pick. But doing so can spread the bacteria and cause scarring.

Picking spots
If you absolutely must pick one the best method is to apply a hot wet towel until the pimple becomes a whitehead. Carefully prick it with a needle (sterilize the needle first!) and then squeeze it. Remember to wash the area afterwards!


Water
Drink plenty. Water helps our bodies to flush themselves of toxins which helps keep skin healthy.

Creams
Moisturizers and facial creams can contribute to acne. Avoid using creamy, greasy or thick products.

Exfoliate
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells - meaning our skin and pores can breath easier. Use an exfoliate that has 1-2% hydroxy acids (Salicylic Acid or BHA).

Eat right & exercise
The old myths that fatty foods and chocolate cause spots has long been disproven. But a bad diet means your body has more work to do to stay healthy. Eat properly and exercise. The increase in your bodies ability to look after itself is well worth the effort. Avoid Alcohol, smoking and drugs.

Hormonal drugs
Its not just women that get hormonal. Hormones are responsible for the maturation of the oil glands in our skin. Which for men makes puberty a prime time to get an outbreak of acne. If you have tried everything else in the book and suspect your acne may be hormonal then see a doctor for advice. Most treatments for hormonal acne require a prescription. Prescription creams may contain benzamycn, Benzaclin, Erythromycin, Duac,  Sodium Sulfacetamide, and aazelic acid creams. Asides from puberty, stress can also increase hormone activity leading to acne. Needless to say stress relief may prove a useful treatment to the root cause of acne! Caffeine can also stimulate hormone production.  

Over the counter treatments
The treatment for acne is a multi-billion dollar industry. So the amount of products out there can be confusing. Lets stick with the basics. Most good acne creams contain Benzoyl peroxide. It kills the bacteria and spots fail to develop a resistance to it. Also look on the label to ensure that the cream is non-comedogenic - meaning it won't block the pores. Tea tree oil is a popular remedy and can be less irritating than Benzoyl peroxide. Salicylic acid is another treatment that operates by unclogging the pores and helping to get rid of the dead skin cells.

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