Getting rid of acne

Washing is important to remove grime and surface oil, make-up and dead surface cells. Ideally this should be done twice daily with a mild soap and water or a non-oily soap substitute. The proverbial `good scrub' will only irritate the skin. Abrasive cleansers, cleansing granules and abrasive sponges are not generally recommended. Because there is always a background of overproduction of oil in acne, most external applications rescribed are in the form of non-oily or alcohol-based lotions or gels which tend to dry the skin. If, in addition, the skin is over-washed or scrubbed excessively the result is uncomfortable flakiness.

Anti-bacterial soaps are not necessary because the bacteria involved are part of the skin's normal `flora' and are furthermore located deep in the oil ducts where soap will have little effect. These types of cleansing agents are generally too irritating. Sometimes it is appropriate to use special cleansing agents, for example those containing a weak mixture of salicylic acid, which encourages shedding of surface cells by producing a

mild peel. Other cleansing agents contain benzoyl peroxide, which counteracts acne by penetrating the follicle and reducing bacterial activity as well as causing a mild peeling effect.

These types of cleansers might be introduced to supplement mild soap and water washing in a treatment program. Because soaps and cleansing agents are rinsed off immediately after being applied, they can only have a limited therapeutic effect as their contact time with the skin is so short.

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