Tips for managing pimples for the African skin

Sometimes it may seem like your face is impossible to manage, especially when you wake up and find a huge zit on your nose or a cold sore at the corner of your mouth. The good news is that there are ways to prevent and treat common facial problems — read on for some tips.

§  Wash your face twice daily. Use a mild soap made especially for people with pimples, and warm water. Do not scrub the skin.

§  Don't try to burst the pimples. You may push the infection further down, causing more blocking and worse swelling and redness. Popping pimples makes scarring more likely.

§  Try to refrain from touching your face with your hands. When you are on the phone try not to let the receiver touch your face - there may be sebum and skin residue on it.

§  Keep your hands clean, wash them regularly.

§  Always wash your hands before touching your face. These includes before applying lotions, creams or makeup.

§  You skin needs to breathe. If your pimples is on your back, shoulders or chest try wearing loose clothing. Tight garments, such as headbands, caps and scarves should be avoided - if you have to wear them make sure they are cleaned regularly.

§  Don't go to sleep with makeup on. Only use makeup that is nonceomedogenic or nonpimplesgenic - you should be able to read this on the label. If you cannot find it, ask the shopkeeper or pharmacist. You should use makeup which does not have oil and does not clog up the pores.

§  Hair collects sebum and skin residue. Keep your hair clean and away from your face.

§  Too much sun can cause your skin to produce more sebum. Several pimples medications make it more likely that you will be sunburned.

§  If you shave your face, do it carefully. Use either an electric shaver or safety razors. If you use a safety razor make sure the blade is sharp. Soften your skin/beard with warm soapy water before applying the shaving cream.