Active acne is caused when sebum and dead skin cells block the hair follicles or pores in the skin. As the body continues to produce sebum, the blockage increases and can result in infection and inflammation.
Dehydrated skin is unable to shed dead cells effectively, and as a result, can produce more blemishes. The excessive production of sebum in acne-prone skin often leads affected people to use skin care products that are too harsh and strip the skin of its natural moisture. The skin responds by producing more sebum, although the skin can also start to scale and flake.
There are two ways to ensure that skin remains hydrated:
• Drinking between one and a half and two litres of water a day will keep your body sufficiently hydrated.
• Using a moisturiser will also help to keep skin nourished and hydrated. A lighter, oil-free moisturiser will help skin to face the events of the day without creating an oily sheen. Night-time moisturiser needs to be richer; this is the time the skin repairs itself. Choose skincare products that are designed to be gentle on acne-prone skin; some are made using harsh chemicals that can do more harm than good.
