Tips to keep your face free of zits

Acne does not spare anyone and for men it sometimes takes on the severe form. Debarati S Sen gets the experts to tell you how to deal with it... No one is really spared of acne - a few lucky ones get away with one or two spots, while others have to deal with a face full of zits! Not just women, men too face this problem. Dr Swati Srivastav, dermatologist says, "Acne erupts in the peak of any hormonal surge or imbalance, in both males and females." Skin specialists say that there's a difference between the acne pattern of males and females. Dr Srivastav says, "In males, acne is more severe and nodular. This is because of more amounts of androgens and testosterone in males." She says that for men, acne typically spreads over from face to chest and back while women rarely get breakouts on their chest and back. Dr Satish Bhatia, dermatologist says, "Men suffer from the severe form of acne which is nodular and cystic, and this may lead to acne scarring." Combating acne requires some smart lifestyle changes and a proper line of medication under the guidance of a dermatologist. Men believe that washing their face again and again will help in removing the zits but excessive washing only leads to drying and dehydration of the skin. Dermatologist Dr S S Trasi says, "The problem of breakouts in men is fairly common in this season because of the hot and humid climate. To combat these ugly zits one should consult a dermatologist, especially if one has pus-filled acne." Men should be extra careful while shaving so as not to break open the pus-filled nodules. This may enhance the scarring process. Experts say that rather than washing the face with just water or any soap, it is advisable that men should opt for non-comedogenic facial cleansers. Also, it is important to choose skin products according to one's skin type. Doctors advise that one should use face washes that contain salicylic acid and beta hydroxy acids to gently exfoliate their skin and remove the sebum. Staying away from dirt and pollution also helps. One should consult a dermatologist who may then give prescription medicines (antibiotics) to remove the bacterial build-up. It is essential to dry out the zits as well and this can be done by applying home-based packs containing Fuller's earth or Multani mitti.