Problem with pimples or acne? Get rid of them!

Acne is the medical word used to describe anything from the occasional blemish through the entire spectrum of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, nodules and large cysts. Acne is a skin condition that occurs when excess oil (sebum) production combined with dead skin cells clog your pores. Then, bacteria forms in the clogged pores resulting in red inflamed pimples, pus filled whiteheads, or blackheads.

Youthful skin is especially susceptible to skin eruptions and blemishes. Hormonal changes accompanying puberty tend to cause an overproduction of sebum (skin oil). It's more frequent among teenagers and young adults in their late 20's but can affect people all the way into their 40's. Acne can clear up on its own but may take several years and lead to scarring.

Many acne sufferers tend to isolate themselves from society and purposely chose not to socialize with their friends. Why? Because acne sufferers are plagued with feelings of depression, embarrassment and have a poor body image. Although acne is not considered to be a life threatening disorder, its psychological effects can be quite profound.

The good news is you can get rid of that acne. Here are some simple ways:
1. Don't ever pinch, squeeze or pick at a pimple. This only causes it to become more red and inflamed, and will spread the bacteria and oils that caused it in the first place, to other parts of your face! It can also lead to scars.
2. Every 30 minutes, apply an ice pack to the pimple and hold it there for about 2 minutes. This will decrease the swelling and redness and help shrink the inflammation and pain that sometimes comes along with it.
3. If you're in need of a quick fix, a dab of toothpaste on the affected area right before bed can help soothe irritation and reduce redness. Pressing and holding a wet tea bag or a cotton ball with a dab of lemon juice against the blemish for five minutes can also reduce swelling and redness.
4. Cleanse your skin 2-3 times a day with mild, unscented soap or a specialized acne cleanser that has no harsh chemicals. Scrub skin gently with an exfoliating pad or washcloth, but don't rub too hard, otherwise you'll sap your skin of its own natural oils, which help to repel buildup naturally.
5. Apply a cream or ointment containing benzyl peroxide or salicylic acid (many over-the-counter acne medicines contain these ingredients) to the blemish or around the entire facial area. Note that these ingredients both have a tendency to dry out skin if used too much and are not recommended if you have sensitive skin.
6. Wear oil-free makeup whenever possible. These types have less of a tendency to cause the pore build up that result in blemishes. Remove your makeup nightly and cleanse with mild, unscented soap or specialized acne cleanser that has no harsh chemicals to remove dirt, oil and makeup from deep within the skin.
7. Try rubbing your skin or face with a slice of papaya or tomato and wash it off as soon as it dries completely. Papaya and tomatoes contain exfoliating substance that penetrates into the deep layers of the skin effectively making a deep cleansing within the pore. It also provides an anti-wrinkle and anti-aging benefits to the skin.
8. Apply juice of mint leaves at bed time & leave overnight. Wash off with warm water next morning. It is an effective anti-acne solution.
9. If you prefer a natural astringent, you may use a skin of cucumber (inner layer) over the face. Stroke it in circular motions as you would on a cotton soaked with manufactured astringent. Allow to dry and rinse.