Oily/Acne Prone Skin:

When the pores are open, the skin is prone to spots and blackheads. Using a daily astringent to remove excess oil that is produced will lessen the chance of pimples arising. Astringents will contract the skin, which closes the pores so dirt and oil do not get in. When moisturizing the skin, it is vital to pay close attention to the ingredients in the product. A label that says water-based, oil-free and/or noncomedogenic is best because they will not clog the pores.

Makeup:

• For those who use foundation, you should choose an oil-absorbing product. It is best to use sunscreen gels because they are less greasy than lotions.
• Makeup should only be applied where it is needed to avoid clogging pores all over your face.
• Unclean tools and dirty hands when applying makeup can spread bacteria and lead to a breakout. You can clean brushes with regular shampoo.
• Foundation and powder puffs/sponges should be replaced on a regular basis.
• Blushes and eye shadow containers should be closed tightly so that dust cannot enter.
• Makeup should be kept away from warm, moist environments to avoid attracting bacteria.

Treating Blocked Pores:

• You can wash your face twice each day with a pore-refining cleanser.
• You can alter your diet - for example, by eating good fat found in fresh fish, extra virgin olive oil, and eating fruits and vegetables, you can help prevent blocking your pores.
• Retin-A is used to unclog pores. Retinoids/Retinol is derived from Vitamin A, and helps the skin function normally by regulating the oil generated.
• Geranium oil is an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and astringent that treats oily skin.

Removing Blackheads:

Preventing acne means controlling blackheads. They can appear on the face, chest, back and any other oil rich body part. Blackhead extraction is a professional job. They should never be picked because that could damage the skin by destroying the inner layer. Keep the skin clean to avoid getting blackheads. To do so, you can:

• Use an oatmeal or almond mask, leaving it on the face for 15 minutes.
• Rub undiluted lemon juice on the affected areas two or three times per day
• Combine 1.5 cups of hot water with ½ Tbs of boric powder and dip a washcloth in the mixture and press to your face. Repeat twice. Using a blackhead remover or Q-tip, remove blackheads. Treat skin with astringent.
• Put a warm honey mask on face and wash off after 10-15 minutes
• As a last resort, contact a qualified dermatologist or beautician.

Reducing the Appearance of Acne Scars:

Never pick pimples because the bacteria can get into the pores and cause an infection. Scars can also result. When treated quickly and appropriately, the scar formation can be greatly reduced. Keep in mind that it takes six to eight weeks for a noticeable difference with any treatment. After eight weeks, you may want to consult a doctor who can prescribe a more effective treatment.

• Bleaching creams used in combination with glycolic acid-based lotions will help clear up mild scars.
• A dermatologist can prescribe a hydroquinone-based bleach that, when used in conjunction with a retinoid, can prevent future acne breakouts. It works to exfoliate the deep layers of skin where scars form.
• For more severe scarring, a series of chemical peels are used. It requires three to four months of treatments. A salicylic acid peel will clear up an acne breakout while fading scars.
• Pigment scars are best treated with chemical skin peels and retinoids. Darker skin does not respond well to laser treatments because it can lead to hyper-pigmented spots (discoloration).
• Ice Pick scars (more common in people with fair skin) must be treated immediately to avoid a depression in the skin. Dermabrasion is a method of manually smoothing out scars. More severe scars may have to be surgically removed. Laser treatments burn away scar tissue. You will experience red, sore skin for only a few days.

When making a choice, it's best to confer with a qualified dermatologist.