Cosmetic cures

Bridgette Jones has the most effective make-up tricks up her sleeve

I am a young woman. I have been suffering from acne ever since I was a teenager. No matter what I do — from using lotions and creams suggested by dermatologists to using anti-acne products — pimples keep reappearing. What should I do?

Name and address withheld

Jyoti khaitan designer I have three to four almonds, soaked in water overnight, first thing in the morning. I eat a lot of yoghurt, fruits, vegetables and juices throughout the day. Apart from this, I cleanse, tone and moisturise my skin. And I get a hair spa done once a month. Pix by Rashbehari Das

Teenagers are not the only ones who can get acne. Adults, at least 50 per cent of them, suffer from blemishes and acne. Sometimes adult acne is due to genetics or hormones that create excessive oil and this clogs the skin pores. Some cosmetics can block the pores which will create pimples.

To keep your face acne-free, try some of these tips....

It is important to maintain an acid environment in the skin. Do not wash the skin with soap, which is too alkaline and strips the acid mantle of the skin. Instead, use a gel based facial wash and warm water. Do not use products that contain alcohol.

The best defence against acne is to treat your skin gently. No picking, squeezing or rubbing it. Avoid heavy oil based cosmetics and creams that will clog the pores.

There is no conclusive evidence that diet is the culprit in acne, but eating chips, nuts, pizzas and other greasy foods don’t help. Drink at least 10-12 glasses of water.

After washing your face, avoid using a towel. Instead use a facial tissue to mop up dripping water from under the chin and allow the rest of the face to dry naturally.

Before going to bed clean your face thoroughly.

And finally, get a good night’s sleep. This is very important because your skin repairs itself most during your sleep.