Stop Acne: Prevention is the Best Medicine

Are you tired of your acne? Of course you are, it's time to finally stop acne.

Stopping acne can't be done over night, but with a long-term approach and mindset, you can prevent it from coming back. Having clear skin is a huge boost to your self-esteem and view of yourself.

Traditionally, there are two approaches to stop acne: Diet change and medication. Both methods have their own merit and when combined, they will stop acne dead in its tracks. Outlined below are some simple ways to start the process of clearing your skin and things to consider when talking with your dermatologist about acne medication. First, lets take a look at what causes acne.

Acne is due to follicles producing too much sebum. In the most common types of acne this sebum builds up under the skin with other bacteria (whiteheads) or at the surface with dirt and dead skin cells (blackheads). There are many other types of acne and skin irritations, but these two are most prevalent. The treatment for all of them is similar. Depending on the severity of your acne the time it takes to overcome it will vary.

Severe acne can lead to acne scarring later on, so it's best to stop acne it now. Also, whiteheads and blackheads shouldn't be popped. When the pressure is put onto your skin that way it can damage the tissue underneath, increasing your chances of acne scars. Popping pimples is also not sterile so you are much more susceptible to infection.  Read on to learn how to stop acne.

Take a close look at what you eat and drink every day. If much of your diet consists of greasy, unhealthy, and processed food, it is likely contributing to your acne. Your skin's health starts from the inside of your body. If you are putting crap into it, your skin will reflect it.

Changing your diet from fast food and junk to a diet based around fruits and vegetables will help clear your skin and stop acne. You don't have to be vegan, but do your best to eat twice as many veggies as you do meat. This keeps lots of toxins and saturated fat out of your body that contribute to acne.

Drinking water is key to keeping your skin hydrated and to stop acne. If your skin and pores are properly hydrated they will have a harder time clogging up and making more acne. Water also flushes toxins out of your body that can end up in your skin. Drink at least a half gallon of water a day. The best way to make sure that you drink enough water is to carry a water bottle with you all day and keep track of how many times you fill it up. The average reusable water bottle is between 20-32 ounces, so three refills a day will cover your water needs.

With a healthy change in your diet your acne will begin to clear up. That may not be enough though, and a trip to the dermatologist is necessary. Eating healthy and drinking lots of water can stop acne, but many times not all of the way.

There are many options available through the doctor. Keeping a record of everything that you have done to keep your acne under control will help your dermatologist determine the best course of action for you. Most prescriptions available are topical creams that treat acne on your skin, but there are new options that come in a pill that will help from the inside out.

Doing research about the medications that are available for you will help you make your decision with your doctor. If you have a certain prescription to stop acne in mind, let your doctor know and discuss what it's benefits are.