Skin Care

Acne is one of the most common skin complaints affecting many people at some point in their lives. Severity can vary from a few annoying spots and pimples through to serious outbreaks that can require specialist medical attention. Unfortunately there is no outright cure for acne, just treatment to alleviate the break outs.

There are many factors that can contribute to acne breakouts. One commonly held belief is that greasy food is a major contributor. This not actually true but diet is an important element to consider. The human skin needs a balanced range of vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, vitamin E, Zinc and Selenium. A healthy, balanced diet should provide these but many busy people don’t eat a healthy diet. A dietary supplement that provides all of the minerals and vitamins that your skin needs can help enormously. One thing to bear in mind is that caffeine, in tea, coffee and various energy drinks, can influence acne breakouts.

Another contributory factor is stress. Stress prompts the human body to release hormones leading to a hormonal imbalance. Fatty secretions increase at times of stress and these can lead to blocked pores. Stress relief and management techniques can serve to level any hormonal imbalance and help promote a healthy skin.

The most significant factor influencing whether you get acne, its severity and how long it lasts is genetics. If your parents or other members of your family have experienced acne then you will stand a higher chance of having an outbreak at some time. The precise genetic mechanism that causes problems with acne have yet to be identified.

Although many people believe that cleanliness is an important factor no direct link has been found showing that acne can be provoked by poor hygiene. That doesn’t mean that it is OK not to wash.

Treatment for acne can vary depending upon the severity. Many people find that cleansing the facial skin with a suitable cleansing agent like the Elemis Lime Blossom Cleanser, is all that is needed for good skin care to keep the acne under control. Herbal remedies and modern prescription medicine works well for many people.

A consultation with a dermatologist is always a good idea if you suffer from acne. They should be able to provide advice regarding the best regime for your condition.

There are some excellent skincare products in the Aromatherapy Associates range and Elemis range that can help control acne.