Should you stop moisturizing your skin when you have acne break-outs? It may be tempting to try to dry out your skin but this is not a good idea. Moisturizers are needed for ALL but the most oily skin types. group of teen high shcool students

Moisturizers will:

  1. Help to keep the skin’s protective, outer barrier intact and minimize irritation (redness).
  2. Counter the drying effects caused by many acne treatments, including over-the-counter products and prescribed medications.

When choosing a moisturizer, look for products that are:

  • Oil-free, free of mineral oil and petrolatum.
  • Non-comedogenic, containing ingredients that do not clog the pores.
  • Fragrance-free. Fragrance is a common skin irritant.

And may contain:

  • Ceramides. These are manufactured lipids that work by replacing natural lipids, fatty substances that moisturize the skin.
  • Sunscreen if for day use when sun protection is needed.

*Note: If you are using an acne treatment, apply this first and follow with a moisturizer.