Oily Skin

Remember, there is no way to completely prevent oily skin from occurring, but hopefully these tips will help keep the oil and acne under control:

• Although dirt and oil on the surface of the skin do not cause acne, excessive oil on your skin may exacerbate the clogging of pore openings, so proper washing is often a good way to keep the situation from becoming worse. Most topical acne medications have a drying effect on oily skin.
• Try a mild cleanser that cleanses without drying.
• Do not use any oil-based cosmetics, which will only aggravate oily skin.
• Use water-based, non-comedogenic cosmetics.
• Remove your makeup before going to bed, but avoid cold creams and lotions.
• Eat a healthy well balanced diet.
• Reduce stress. Doctors have seen a connection between stress and acne for a long time. Studies have shown that the body produces more androgens when a person is under stress. The increase may trigger acne flare-ups by stimulating the sebaceous glands to pump out more sebum. Even physical stresses, such as colds, allergies, surgery, or menstration, can trigger break-outs.

None of the above is intended as medical advice. If you have a medical concern, please consult your doctor.

Dry or Sensitive Skin

Dry skin in the fall or winter is a common problem. There are some steps you can take to get your skin into shape after the summer sun and water exposure have depleted precious moisture and nutrients.

Dermatologists fall and winter mantra is "moisturize, moisturize, moisturize". Here are a few helpful tips to make the most of your moisturizing experience:

• Don't over bathe
• Add bath oil
• Moisturize immediately after washing
• Carry extra hand cream with you
• Switch to a créme based skin care regimen
• Use an active ingredient if necessary
• Humidify your environment

None of the above is intended as medical advice. If you have a medical concern, please consult your doctor.

Acne Prone Skin

Acne is a skin condition that affects individuals with oily skin especially teenagers and young adults. It is characterized by cysts or pimples such as blackheads and whiteheads. Acne results when skin oils accumulate below keratin plugs in the openings of the hair follicles and oil glands. These plugs get clogged with irritating secretions and bacteria.

Acne can be treated or avoided in one or more of the following ways:

• Using topical medication for mild acne.
• Avoiding oily greases and creams on the skin.
• Men should soften their beard before shaving and not shave against the grain.
• See a doctor about prescribing an antibiotic.
• Light and/or laser treatments have led to excellent improvement in acne.
• Women can frequently benefit from the birth control pill.

None of the above is intended as medical advice. If you have a medical concern, please consult your doctor.