Did you know?

Did you know?

• Exercising regularly can help reduce stress and increase blood circulation and oxygen penetration to the skin

• Drinking 2 litres of water daily helps nourish the skin and remove wastes

• You may be surprised to learn that scientists are yet to confirm the influence of diet on acne. In fact to date there is no evidence that chocolate and greasy foods effect the development or course of acne in most people

• However, it is important that acne sufferers understand that whilst diet may not be the ‘cause’ of the acne, a change to a healthy diet can lead to faster healing and resistance

• It may be best to start a food diary and note if your acne gets worse after eating certain foods. If you suffer from any food sensitivities or allergies, avoid those particular foods

• The myth exists that acne is caused by poor hygiene. Generally a person with acne tends to wash their skin more frequently so as to wash away the excess oil. In fact over washing can dry the skin out and make the condition worse

• A pH balanced cleansing bar or wash is a good start, used only twice a day. Look for a cleanser that is not alcohol based. Tea tree oil cleansers help soothe the skin whilst fighting the acne. Also shampoo hair regularly, especially if it is oily and try to avoid hairspray and gel touching the skin

• Look for moisturizers, and sunscreens that are labelled "non-comedogenic". Avoid products containing the following: alcohol, lanolin, sodium lauryl sulphate, sodium laureth sulphate, propylene glycol, isopropyl myristate, caprylates, mineral oils and some wax products such as bees wax should be avoided

• Scrubs help to clear dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, and they cleanse the pores. Ideally the scrub should be mild, harsh scrubs will irritate and stimulate the skin so that cross infection may occur. Avoid vigorous scrubbing, which may worsen acne

• Anti-spot topical products based on anti-inflammatory herbs and healing vitamins E are useful or neat tea tree oil direct on the spot.