How Can I Treat Dry Skin and Acne?

Dry skin and acne can both be prevented through a daily skin care routine geared towards rehydrating the skin. A basic regimen of cleansing, toning, and moisturizing is the most commonly-recommended treatment for dry skin and acne. Complimentary treatments designed to restore moisture and prevent further irritation, such as topical creams and diet supplements, can help achieve quicker and better results. Individuals with dry skin and acne problems should also consider avoiding environmental factors that aggravate dryness, such as hot showers and anti-pimple medication.

Contrary to popular belief, problems with dry skin and acne can occur at the same time. All skin types are prone to pimples because the causes of acne are due to clogged pores rather than excess oil. When the skin is dry, the top layer starts to flake and slough off, which can clog up the pores and trigger acne. The body responds to the dry skin by producing extra oil to moisturize it, which inadvertently contributes to the development of more acne. Experts believe that treating the dryness problem by nourishing the skin can prevent acne in the long run.

Basic treatment for dry skin and acne begins with cleansing the skin. Aestheticians recommend using a specially-formulated facial wash and warm water to get rid of dirt in between pores; soap can dry the skin and worsen the problem. Toner should then be applied to the skin to remove any remaining traces of dirt, makeup, or oil missed by the cleanser. The skin care routine is topped off with a moisturizer to rehydrate the freshly-cleaned skin.

Treating dry skin and acne involves more than applying moisturizer on a regular basis. The skin is best hydrated from within; drinking plenty of water and eating skin-friendly foods rich in vitamins A, C and E effectively replenishes moisture from beneath the skin's surface. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil supplements are also known to help the skin retain moisture, improving skin quality and acne problems.

Acne can also be treated with home remedies such as toothpaste and apple cider vinegar. Harsh anti-pimple medications can dry out and eliminate pimples, but it will also strip the skin of its moisture, causing the cycle of dry skin and acne to repeat itself. Hot showers and baths should also be avoided, as the heat can dissolve the protective oils that cover the skin. If these oils are removed, the water in the skin can escape, exacerbating the dry skin problem.