Acne sufferers really want only one thing - clear beautiful skin. They'll try all kinds of products - from lotions, washes, preparations and ointments to pills, supplements and alternative therapies, in the hunt for acne-free skin. But the key to obtaining that perfect skin starts out with a solid understanding of the causes of acne. Eradicate the causes of your acne and you can say goodbye to pimple woes and hello to beautiful, clear and glowing skin.

There are a lot of commercial, herbal, and homeopathic treatments for acne available on the market today, and many fail to deliver on their promises of super-model skin. It is wise to ask your doctor or dermatologist before using any of these for the first time, or at the very least, take the time to research the ingredients on the label.

Common Treatments:

Herbs are great for reducing redness as well as preventing the development of scars which can remain after the acne heals. Echinacea and poke root can be used for their anti-inflammatory attributes to reduce redness. Witch hazel has been used for many years due to its ability to act as an astringent.

Retin-A and alpha hydroxy acids have been utilised to treat acne as well as to heal and prevent future acne outbreaks. Two common ingredients in over-the-counter acne medications are glycolic and lactic acids, which act to get rid of dead skin cells. You should always check the label and read any directions about a product prior to using it. Some acne products are not safe to use during pregnancy, therefore be cautious about preparations you are applying if you are pregnant or believe that you may become pregnant while taking the treatments.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) may be applied on all skin types and are effective cleansers to use for healing and for acne prevention. They're natural acids which come from fruits, milk sugars and plants. AHAs work by getting rid of the dead layer of skin so that you can experience the newer layer of skin underneath - very much like facials.

An unnatural rate of oil production which can result in big irritated bumps that conceal pustules underneath the surface of the skin is a condition called cystic acne. This ailment can last for a very long time. If you suspect that you could have cystic acne, please make an appointment with your doctor or dermatologist.

Harsh and/or abrasive skin products can actually make your acne worse so keep your distance from any skin product that you cannot pronounce. Natural remedies are becoming far more popular mainly because they are mild and cause no harm to the skin.

Take a good look around your place of employment to make certain there are no air-borne irritants which might be causing your acne.

Healthy skin is sustained by a diet which is rich in fruits, whole grains, plenty of water and fresh vegetables. To be healthy, your skin needs you to get plenty of rest, exercise and make every effort to cut down the stress in your life. Doing all you can do to help your skin remain healthy will also allow it to be acne free.

While you're waiting to heal, you can hide acne breakouts by using a complementary-tone foundation (makeup) that is oil-free or water-based. Be sure that you take off this makeup prior to going to bed.

If you would like to regain and maintain acne free skin you should follow a daily skin regimen. This regimen should include: cleansing your skin at least twice a day (more if really oily) with a mild cleanser and clean water, pore unclogging techniques (strips, facials), getting rid of oil from your face with an astringent or by cleansing, staying stress-free, and eating a nutritious diet which includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plenty of water (at least 8 - 8 oz. glasses each day).Regular exercise is also important for healthy skin.

Take these steps for good skincare and you'll minimize the occurrence of acne and discover clearer, more beautiful skin.