How to overcome acne at home

I am breaking out in acne all over my neck, back, chest and arms. At least 70% of us have braved acne at some point in our lives. A disorder of the oil glands of the skin, it is manifested by blackheads, whiteheads, pustules, papules and deeper cysts.

The basic cause of acne-no matter where it is located on the body-is a hormonal imbalance along with a genetic susceptibility. This varies from one person to another, but is usually a combination of lack of exercise, high-carb diet, stress, metabolism and genetic predisposition. Body acne takes longer to respond to treatment. There is no fool-proof way of preventing it, but here is what you can do to keep it under control.

1) Exercise regularly. Work out for at least 40 minutes, 5 five times a week. This can include swimming, cycling, dancing, playing sports or even gymming.

2) Check your diet. Avoid refined carbs, found in white bread, white rice, potatoes and junk food. Use your face wash on your body. If you cleanse your face with a formula with salicylic or glycolic acid, also use it for areas on your body where you are breaking out.

3) Use a light sunscreen: Preferably one with an SPF of at least 30. Try topical ointments, use a gel containing salicylic acid at bedtime. If that doesn’t work, try benzoyl peroxide 2.5% gel. (Discontinue if it dries your skin; use an oil-free skin moisturiser). If these steps don't work, visit a dermat who will decide the line of treatment.

4) Check your blood: Depending on the severity of your problem, the dermat may either prescribe stronger ointments or antibiotics and a blood hormonal profile or dermatological procedures. You may also need further investigations to rule out PCOS, which is increasingly being diagnosed in women of all ages, ranging from 10 to 50!