How to keep your skin pimple-free

Pimples, medically known as Acne Vulgaris, is the most common skin problem which affects virtually 100 per cent teenagers in many forms. Nowadays, a good number of adults in their late 20s or 30s are faced with the same problem. A good knowledge and a few lifestyle tweaks can help one prevent acne or reducing its severity.

• Keep your scalp oil free and try to shampoo often. As acne occurs due to excessive oil production by the glands over our faces and head. We must also avoid oiling our hair as that would lead to dandruff and acne precipitation or exacerbation.
• Wash the face gently at least twice daily. This will not only reduce the oiliness of your face, it will also keep it clean and this helps combats the bacteria which causes acne production. For this, a non-oily soap or face wash should be used. Remember to stroke your face gently while washing as excessive scrubbing might increase the inflammation.
• Try to use minimal cosmetics over the face as this blocks facial pores and causes acne. Always use ‘non comedogenic’ products or consult a dermatologist when in doubt.
• Avoid getting waxing on the face or massages or facials with oily comedogenic products. Always ensure which products are being used and ask your doctor if they are suitable for acne prone skin.
• Avoid smoking; smoking is directly linked with the intensity of acne.
• If you wish to make dietary changes, you can reduce the intake of dairy products such as milk products which have been known to increas acne production. This must only be done after consulting a dietician.
• A strict NO to the use of steroid creams over the face when you have acne! Seek the advice of a dermatologist before applying any cream recommended by your friend or family as they may contain steroids.
• Avoid stress and stay happy, as a happy face is a beautiful face.
• Acne maybe associated with hormonal problems in the body, the most important being PCOS, in which acne usually occurs with weight gain, irregular menstrual cycles and thick facial hair. If you experience such symptoms, you must visit a dermatologist right away as this would need weight reduction and some medicines to treat the disorder.

If despite these recommendations; your acne persists, then  you must visit a dermatologist and do not use any product without consulting a skin specialist. In this era of technology, you can also make use of phone reminders and other devices to help you remember these simple hacks.

Dr. Manjul Aggarwal, Consultant with Department of Dermatology, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, India

PUNCH.