1. Wash daily using a product made especially for gently exfoliating dead skin cells. Removing dead skin cells, everybody has them, is very important because these skin cells are a big part of what plugs skin pores and allows the acne bacteria to grow.
2. Also, use a soap designed especially to kill the acne-causing bacteria, P. acnes. These bacteria breed in the plug material trapped in your skin's pores. An anti-bacterial soap will help a lot to stop the bacterial infection.
3. Try to not wash more than twice a day. Too much washing can irritate the skin and remove essential skin oils. Yes, you do need some skin oil. It is only excessive oil that contributes to acne.
4. If your skin feels really oily or greasy, so greasy that you feel like it's dripping off of you, then wash gently.
5. Use warm water to wash your skin. Never use hot or cold water as extreme temperatures can damage your skin. Damaged skin is more susceptible to infection.
6. To avoid irritating your skin, use a soft towel to dry off. Towels hold bacteria in so be sure to use clean towels when you wash. Dirty towels can spred bacteria back onto your skin.
7. Don't roughly scrub your skin. You will irritate it and spread the acne-causing bacteria, P. acnes all over your skin.
8. Having healthy skin begins on the inside. Drink lots of clean, fresh water. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables and whole grains in your diet everyday. Helping your body rid itself of toxins with healthy eating and drinking habits will make it easier to avoid plugged pores and ultimately acne.
9. Remember that exercise increases blood circulation which also helps in waste removal from your body. Wash the sweat off quickly, though, because bacteria love it.
10. Take note of the ingredients of any products you put on your skin, including make-up, as some ingredients can contribute to acne. Avoid anything with alcohol or oils (except herbal extract oils like tea tree oil). Watch for any bad reactions on your skin after using any product. It's always best to use water-based products when possible.
Kirstie MacKinnon is a freelance writer who is particularly interested in the afflictions that affect physical appearance and their solutions. If you want top notch advice to clear up your acne and see more tips, resources and remedies visit her website at Acne-Counsel.