Gentle Exfoliation
Since one of the contributors to acne is the build-up of dead skin cells leading to clogged pores, regular exfoliation (shedding your top layer of skin) can help to maintain clear skin. However, remember to keep your exfoliation gentle on your skin. Exfoliating too frequently or too harshly will only leave your skin irritated and invite acne under the surface.
Exfoliation naturally occurs, but the problem lies in that it does not always occur evenly, leaving clumps of dead cells that can cause skin problems. Some acne medications treat this problem using acids such as Glycolic or Salicylic Acid to burn away the top layer of your skin. However, exfoliating acids can be harsh for many people, and it can be frustrating to find one that works without drying you out (and continues to work down the road). A better solution for those with sensitive skin is simply an exfoliating scrub (St. Ives’ Apricot Scrub is a popular example) that allows you to exfoliate as much or as little as you want, without penetrating too deep beneath your skin. Sure, these scrubs will not prevent acne under the surface, but if you have a mild case of acne due to uneven exfoliation, these products may work where others fail. Following with a moisturizer may still be a good idea.
Exfoliation is not something you need to obsess about. You don’t need to use these types of products every day, and you probably shouldn’t. If you use a scrub 3 or 4 times each week, that is usually plenty. A tricky aspect is treating those areas other than your face, but a good bath sponge with some texture can serve the same purpose just as well for your back and body. Remember that when your pores are bloated with excess sebum, they are more likely to get clogged with dead skin cells, so vitamin B5 can definitely aid in the fight as well.
