About 90% of all teens suffer acne on the face to some degree.  The most severe inflammatory type is oftentimes referred to as cystic.  The large boils or nodules can appear on the buttocks, in the armpits and anywhere else that sweat collects in the hair follicles or pores .

Although it was at one time believed that bad hygiene caused breakouts, we now know it is important to avoid cleansing too often .  Over-cleansing strips the skin's natural oils with harsh cleansers and may encourage the oil-producing glands to produce even more sebum . 

Overproduction of sebum by the oil-producing glands is one of the elements that causes inflammation deep inside the pore.  As the pore narrows , oils and dead skin cells become trapped . 

Bacterium by nature present on the skin’s surface and inside of the pores intermingles with the sebum and dead cells to produce the pus that is seen in pimples.  Many people believe there are 3 main factors causing pimples : undue sebum production, overgrowth of bacteria and inflammation. Taking a holistic skin care approach can help with this .

Measuring things like overproduction of sebum or excessive bacterial growth is very difficult .  It is also difficult to figure out how much of a role they play in facial acne.  Conversely, it is much easier to measure the role of inflammation, and it is now known that it if likely the primary factor .

The best strategy for reducing breakouts must then focus on inflammation .  Here are some tips .

Redness and irritation are sure signs of inflammation , at least to some extent.  It’s a good idea to use the mildest cleansers and only when the skin is actually dirty, not as a steady part of your daily skin care regimen . It is important that skin care products contain natural ingredients like phytessence wakame.

Although exfoliation may be helpful for removing dead skin cells, products designed for exfoliation usually contain granules that leave miniature scratches in the skin's surface .  So, they actually contribute to inflammation.  A glycolic peel done at a spa or a dermatologist’s office would be a better choice.  Extrapone nutgrass is also good to help give the skin a more even tone .

The use of a deep cleansing kaolin-based clay mask on a bi-weekly basis can help keep the pores clean and reduce inflammation at the same time.  There are many other tips for reducing facial acne.  Cleaning gently is just the first step.