Introduction: How to Treat Acne

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As an acne sufferer myself I have tried pretty much every product on the market to combat my spots once and for all.

If, like me, you can't afford light therapy or micradermabrasion then this is the one for you. It'll be the easiest change to your skin regime.

Below is a pic of me to show that it really does work. No airbrushing or anything!

Step 1: 1. Remove Make-Up

Use a special water-proof make-up remover to do this.

Try not to rub the skin or eyes rigorously. This will cause irritation which can leave you with even more problems.

To remove stubborn mascara or eye liner, soak some cotton pads in warm water with a dash of cleanser and press over the eyes for a few minutes. The heat will help to lift the make-up.

Step 2: 2. Cleanse

Fill your sink with some hot water. If you want you can add a couple of drops of an astringent essential oil such as lavender, tea tree or witch hazel. Make sure you do a patch test first if you're not sure if you are allergic.

Soak a clean square of muslin or a face cloth in the water then ring out.

Hold the cloth over your face and neck for a few minutes. If the cloth cools you can always dip it in the water again to reheat it.

The heat causes the pores to open up a little so that you can remove any hidden dirt.

Step 3: 3. Anti-bacterial Wash

Use a good pore-cleaning bacterial wash such as Clearasil's Deep Cleansing 3 in 1 wash. This product will not break the bank and comes in a sensitive range too. http://www.clearasil.co.uk/range/daily_spot_control/spotControl.php

You may wish to exfoliate at this point. You shouldn't do this any more than once a week if you suffer from acne. The less irritation to the skin the better.

If you suffer severely from allergies you could try soaking some porridge oats, draining and using the leftover liquid to wash your face. Other good natural cleansers include yoghurt and nut milk such as almond or coconut.

Close your pores with a little rinse of cool water.

Pat your face and neck dry after your final rinse. Do not rub with the towel.

Step 4: 4. Tone

You could use Simple's facial toner: http://www.simple.co.uk/products/Soothing-Facial-Toner-200ml-43.aspx

I find that using a spritzer to apply my toner is better than using cotton pads. You've already rubbed your skin during the cleansing stages so give your face a rest with a spray.

A pricier option would be MAC's Fix+. I've never used this product before but I've heard plenty of recommendations.

Step 5: 5. Moisturise

The big secret to my clear skin is in this step.

I use oil to moisturise. When you have oily skin and blemishes, oil may seem like the last thing you want to put on your face. But believe me, this is the holy grail to acne sufferers. It also evens out skin tone and helps reduce scarring.

When I can afford it, I use Dr. Hauschka's Normalising Day Oil:
http://www.drhauschka.co.uk/products/face-care/normalising-day-oil

When money is tight I tend to use macadamia nut oil. You should be able to pick this up at any supermarket.

It really is that simple. Use it lightly and let it soak in fully before putting on make-up or smother yourself in it completely before you go to bed. You'll see an improvement in the morning.

Step 6: 6. Helpful Tips

If you can afford to, stock up on Dr. Hauschka products. Their bio-organic cosmetics are wonderful. They smell great, feel great and make you look great. Not tested on animals and environmentally friendly. This is the way to go. http://www.drhauschka.co.uk

Get outside and enjoy the sun. The sun helps produce vitamin D which is vital for a healthy complexion. Just make sure you wear at least SPF 30.

Swap your old pillowcase for a satin pillowcase. Not only will it tart up your bedroom but it'll cause less irritation to the skin.

Don't overwash. It only makes things worse. If you wash away your natural oil (sebum) your skin will try to make more and more which will clog pores and cause spots.

Eat a healthy diet. Although I'm sceptical whether certain food cause spots other foods definitely help. Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and in a wide variety.

Hydrate the skin by drinking plenty of water. Drink at least 2 litres a day.

Consult your GP and discuss whether taking Dianette is suitable for you. Originally manufactured to treat hirsutism and acne, it is also a contraceptive pill.