Expert: Linda Gearke - 9/16/2009

Question
Hello my name is Stephanie and I am 20 years old. I've been suffering from acne for a very long time.
I have a lot of whiteheads and small pimples.
What can I do to help reduce whiteheads?
is there a particular product that you recommend?

Also, What kind of makeup should I be wearing?
I've used bare escentuals  but i feel that it wears off too quickly. I would like to start using foundation. Is there a makeup that wont make me look too cakey but with a nice coverage?
Please get back to me Thank You.

Answer
Dear Stephanie~

Here is the common response I give to teens wanting to clear up their breakouts. The main things that contribute to breakouts are diet, bacteria and pore-clogging make-up. Here are some common tips I offer anyone with breakouts....

1) Diet. Drink 8 eight ounce glasses of water daily to help keep your skin clear.  A diet of fried foods, processed foods or one that's sugar-laden could also be a contributor.
2) Bacteria.  Proper cleansing with an exfoliating cleanser twice daily (such as Olay Smooth Skin Exfoliating Scrub) can make a huge difference.  Touching your face excessively (talking with your hand propping up your chin, for instance) will contribute to breakouts.     
3) Look for non-comedogenic make-up products - they are less likely to cause breakouts. Most brands of make-up are non-comedogenic, which means they won't clog your pores. Since your skin is prone to acne try to find products that are non-comdeogenic, oil-free (water-based), hypoallergenic (unlikely to cause an allergic reaction) and fragrance free.

Try Loreal's Mineral Make-up and concealor. Their powder is great as well.  

On the higher end, you might like Lancome's 16 hour wear liquid foundation. It stays put all day.

If you have a Sephora's in your area, I encourage you to go to visit and have one of their representatives help you select the best make-up for your skin...they can help to color match to your skin tone as well.

Keep applying a drying agent, such as peroxide to a pimple daily/nightly to make it go away quickly. But, do not pick at it!  

Good luck!

Linda Gearke
Strictly Personal - The Personal Care Marketing Experts