How To Clear Up Skin

Today’s acne treatments are better than ever and the following tips will show you how to clear up skin. Most men assume their acne problems are behind them once they grow out of their teens and into their twenties. But acne can be a problem for adults, too.

Some blame it on job stress, poor diet or lack of sleep. Anabolic steroids used by athletes and bodybuilders are known to cause acne. And a close shave can produce tiny nicks that allow bacteria to enter the skin and cause infection. Doctors usually can’t pinpoint a specific cause for each patient, but the result is the same for everyone--ugly, inflamed spots on the face, back or chest.

Adult acne is not as severe as teenage acne. But it can be just as distressing and it can leave lifelong physical and emotional scars. So how can a guy clear up his skin? Doctors at Mayo Clinic and WebMD offer the following suggestions.

1. Over the counter products. Basic acne products are available at grocery stores or drugstores. They usually contain cleansers that exfoliate the skin to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores and keep hair follicles open. Non-prescription creams, gels and lotions usually contain the ingredients benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid.
2. Prescription medications. If drugstore products don’t help, doctors can prescribe other acne treatments. Oral or topical antibiotics help control bacteria. Injections of corticosteroids, or anti-inflammatory medications, can tame acne eruptions. And retinoids, derived from Vitamin A, will unclog pores and keep hair follicles open.
3. High-tech treatments. Blue light therapy can kill bacteria that causes acne and laser treatments can repair acne scars. But these high-tech solutions are expensive. Men should talk to a doctor or dermatologist to discuss other options before pursuing high-tech alternatives to clear up skin.
4. Electric shavers. A common acne-like problem for men is folliculitis, caused by a too-close shave. Men with follicular pimples on the face should switch from razor blades to electric shavers. While an electric shaver doesn’t shave as close as a blade, it causes less irritation and inflammation around the hair follicles.
5. Gentle cleansing. Daily cleansing and shaving can take a toll on a guy’s skin. Men should treat their skin gently by limiting shower time, using lukewarm water, avoiding strong soaps and blotting skin dry. A moisturizer is good idea for men and women alike.
6. Healthy foods. A healthier diet will clear up skin and keep it looking healthy. Daily meals should include fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole grains. Researchers cannot pinpoint an exact link between diet and acne, but studies show that vitamin C promotes healthier skin. The same goes for diets low in carbohydrates and fats.
7. Stress management. Stress makes skin more sensitive and vulnerable to acne and other skin problems. Guys who learn to manage their stress tend to have clear, healthy skin--not to mention a clear and healthy state of mind. More sleep and better time management skills will help keep stress and acne under control.