Skin Facts
The Skin is the body's largest organ, measuring 2 square yards and accounting for 15 percent of body weight. It is thickest on the back of the palms and soles of the feet and thinnest on the eyelids. The skin serves several functions- it protects the body from the external environment; expels waste and regulates body temperature.

Skin Problems

We face several types of skin problems, no matter the skin type. Today we will deal with the most common of all skin ailments in teens namely, acne. Yes, the dreaded acne!

Teen skin at one time or another will face issues ranging from simple pimples to its more severe cousin: a barrage of pimples - acne!

Lets first deal with what causes acne.

There are several factors that can contribute to breakouts- heredity, fluctuations in the levels of hormones caused by puberty or menstruation, improper cleaning, use of incorrect skin care products, and stress, to name a few.

There is no proof that food products play a role in acne, but it makes sense that induction of excessive oily food is bound to have an effect on your skin. Food allergies can also cause rashes resembling acne.

Now, the name of the game is to be aware of your skin, and not be so wrapped up in other things whilst totally ignoring skin care.

Acne will not appear overnight, so learn to read the signs. Deal with that first pimple and take precautions.

For starters clean your skin twice a day with a soap-free face wash, Ponds/Johnsons Ph 5.5, etc. Use clove cream or neem paste on you pimple. Don't press or squeeze as this can cause scarring. Apply the following pack twice or thrice daily:

1 tsp neem leaves paste (boiled and pureed)

Pinch of turmeric

1 tsp cucumber puree
If you are already suffering from acne here's what you should do. Contrary to popular belief it is not necessary to scrub acne prone skin with harsh soaps or abrasive cleansers. Scrubbing can irritate your skin and worsen the situation. Gentle cleansing with a soap free cleanser (Neutrogena) and washing with neem water (boil lots of neem leaves in few liters of water and store) twice a day is needed.
Apply the following pack every other day:
1 tsp aloe vera gel
4-5 mint leaves (paste)
2-3 cloves (paste)

Wash with neem water. Apply anti-acne cream containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid only on the spots before bedtime. Drum plenty of water.

Avoid facials. Steam is a complete no-no. Salons offer acne treatments but they cannot and should not include prolonged massage on steam. If your skin does not respond to these steps do not hesitate to see a dermatologist.

Photo: Zahedul I Khan
Makeup and styling: La belle