With all the pimple treatment information on Cosmetic Answers related to the various chemicals and procedures that can be employed to get rid of spots, we felt it was wise to also explain some of the basic issues relating to the condition, and how to set up a 'clear pores' routine in your life.

First of all, let's talk about spots come about and how to get rid of them. Many people think it is related to poor hygiene or dirty skin, and is aggravated by stress and diet. Well, there is no clinical support for this. All the clinical research so far point to hormone changes in the body as the root cause of acne.

Hormone changes that take place as young people go through puberty also cause the sebaceous glands of the skin to produce more sebum, or oil, (that is normally produced to keep the skin supple and protected) through an opening called the sebaceous follicle.
During puberty, the skin cells lining the follicle begin to shed more rapidly. These cells can plug the opening of the follicle. The sebaceous glands continue to produce oil, and the follicle swells up with sebum.

In the meantime, a skin bacteria called P. acnes, multiplies rapidly in the clogged follicle. These bacteria cause the familiar inflammation and redness.

Washing regularly can help reduce acne by removing some of the dead skin that might otherwise clog the follicles, and also reduce any excess build up of oil that might cause dead skin cells the attach to one another and create a blockage in a follicle ? remember, it's all about maintaining clear pores. But you must wash you face carefully and not scrub your skin as this can cause further irritation. Here is our washing recommendation, particularly if you are preparing to apply any acne preparations:

1. Only use facial cleansers labelled as being "oil-free" and "non-comedogenic" (non-acne aggravating). Many acne cleansers also include other chemicals used in acne treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid (for people who are allergic to benzoyl peroxide). We have spoken to a number of dermatologists and all recommend avoiding cleansers with these substances as they may also be included in the preparations you are about to apply. Layering one chemical on top of another may be harmful. The point of a cleanser is to do just that, cleanse the skin.

2. Wash your face twice per day, morning and evening. Washing more frequently can cause irritation.

3. Wash only with your hands as a wash cloth can also irritate the skin. And be gentle. Remember that dirt is not the cause of your acne and scrubbing will only irritate your skin further and can in fact make things worse.

4. Gently pat your skin dry. Do not rub as this can irritate the skin. Ok, now you are done and ready to apply whatever treatment you have either bought over the counter or have been prescribed by your doctor.

One more thing ? always follow the instructions with whatever treatment you buy or are prescribed. And be particularly careful with some of the stronger over-the counter products such as Proactiv and those containing Glycolic Acid. Particularly with the latter it is possible to buy concentrations of 10% to 70%. Using too high a concentration can cause skin damage and pain. We recommend going through a dermatologist, but if you want to go it alone, start with test patches on your skin at the lowest concentrations and work you way up until you feel you are receiving the benefit you seek. Go no higher in concentration once you reach this level. And remember that the skin of you face may be more sensitive that a test patch on your leg so find a limit on one patch and work you way up to that level on your face or wherever you seek acne relief. Many of the over the counter products will cause your skin to become dry. Be sure to have some "oil-free" or "non-comedogenic" moisturizer on hand and apply as per the instructions. And if you have any indication of irritation or feel any pain as a result of using these products, stop immediately and see a dermatologist.

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