Acne is a skin ailment that mostly happens during puberty, because at that time the body tends to overproduce the oil which lubricates the skin and hair. The problem can prolong into adulthood, and both women and men are susceptible. It is an uncomfortable condition for those experiencing it, and so those individuals who are not yet afflicted should find out how to prevent acne.

To be able to figure out how to prevent acne, the nature and reason for the condition needs to be known. Acne is typically seen as pimples, which can be whiteheads, blackheads, or cysts. These arise when the skin pores become clogged from the excess oil secreted by the body, as well as dirt & bacteria. This mixture attracts acne bacteria which multiply and bring about swelling and redness. You can find simple and cheap steps that can be taken to put off the microbial growth.

It is suggested that the face, which is normally where acne is seen most, be washed two times daily with an appropriate cleanser. Cleansing the face too often  tends to cause more oil production, therefore twice is fine! Cleansers should not contain an alcohol or oil base since these make the skin dried out and feel tight. Water-based moisturizers are suggested, and soap containing the right amount of sulphur may be helpful to dissuade the onset of acne as well. Another recommendation is that the hands should be kept away from the face at all times. This is because the hands are likely to be dirty and bacteria ridden. That said, hand-and-face contact will cause the introduction of dirt, and so bacteria into the skin pores. Additionally, hair must be kept out of the face, because hair traps dirt and dust (not to forget the hairs own natural oil) that may be introduced to the pores.

Another piece of recommendation is not to let any perspiration to remain on the skin. During and after exercise, or any other physical activity which produces sweat, the excess sweat must be removed promptly. Again, a mild cleanser needs to be used to remove dirt and dried sweat, as swiftly as possible. Once or twice weekly, a mild exfoliate (sugar based, not salt based) should be applied to get rid of dead skin. It is further recommended that the pimples should not be scratched, squeezed, or pinched. This is because these actions may cause the spots to become inflamed and swell more, besides leaving scars.

Reduced exposure to sunlight should help in the prevention of acne, since excessive sunlight just isn't healthy for the skin. Sunscreens containing high content of oil should be avoided as well. It is believed that acne is a sign of an existing imbalance inside the body. It is also assumed that the body can be empowered to fix this imbalance if supplied with the proper "tools" -- which in this case means food. A proper anti-acne diet can do miracles for stopping acne and keeping it at bay. Is it the quickest or most reliable explanation for how to prevent acne? Certainly not, but that doesn't mean you should not add this particular strategy to your "acne free" plan. After all, the more acne remedies, cures, and treatments you employ, the better off you'll be in your battle against acne.