Acne is a very common skin condition, affecting women and men of all ages. Also known as pimples, acne can appear on the face and neck, back and shoulders. Although a serious problem, few people suffering from Acne Vulgaris seek medical advice. Usually they either try to fight acne with traditional means, such as well-known cosmetic creams (Pro Active, PhytoMe Acne Gel,DDF BP Gel 5% with Tea Tree Oil) and home remedies, or don't do anything, waiting for the pimples to disappear in time. Unfortunately severe acne leaves scars and it is very unpleasant especially for older people, because in old ages the skin cures slower after acne outbreaks.

The best therapy is to take care of the skin before the acne outbreaks even occur. Don't skip breakfast and don't waste too many nights partying. Yes, it's always fun to party, but when you have severe acne, the next morning's spectacle offered by the appearance of some new pimples is often too high a price to pay. Still, if you have no other choice and have to waste nights (let's say you are a DJ or simply employed in a club) consider cleaning your face daily with chamomile tea instead of soap and water. It will relax and deeply clean your skin. And always have some Tea Tree Oil close at hand - Tea Tree Oil is in many countries a popular pimple remedy.

If you are a smoker, it's time to quit. It's bad for your skin, bad for your lungs and quite an expensive habit. Reduce the quantity of chocolates (or any other chocolate-based products) you eat. Try to drink less coffee as well. Both chocolate and coffee are natural excitants. It is important to have a proper diet when you fight severe acne.

Some home remedies work pretty well. For example a mask made of oatmeal mixed with water works wonders on problem skin. Try this home remedy twice a week. Keep the mask over the affected portion of your skin for 20 minutes and you'll soon notice your skin becomes cleaner and less oily.

If you enjoy eating oranges, don't waste the peel. There's nothing better against swelling than a paste of freshly ground orange peel and water. Let it work for at least half an hour and then gently wash it off with lukewarm water. Whatever you do, don't stress your skin more. Peel, don't rub. After you wash, use a soft towel to dry, or better still, let your skin dry naturally. Next, put on a tonic. A concentrated basil tea is an excellent tonic for problem skin. Apply it gently with a cotton ball, twice a day if possible.

Whether you opt for home remedies or cosmetic products, remember that being consistent in your efforts is what will really hasten the cure.

And one last special tip for women: you can use contraceptive pills to treat acne. You can try this when nothing else works. However, be aware of the fact that contraceptives are not for every woman and seek medical advice before proceeding into this venture on your own. Ask both your dermatologist and your gynecologist whether the pills are a good choice for you or not.