Treating Oily/Problem Skin
You've probably seen alpha hydroxy acids in most anti-aging products, but did you know that they help treat acne (and the oily skin that comes with the acne) too? Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) come from fruit or milk and have the ability to penetrate deep into the skin.

There following are five types of AHA's:
- Glycolic Acid which comes from sugar cane
- Lactic Acid which comes from milk
- Malic Acid which comes from apples
- Citric Acid which comes from oranges and lemons
- Tartaric Acid whihc comes from grapes

How AHA's work:
Your skin sheds millions of skin cells every day, but the rate of shedding is faster than usual on some people. So, the skin cells come off when they aren't even ready to yet and clog pores, causing acne. AHA's are exfoliants that "unglue" the skin cells and slough away dead skin cells, leaving room for new skin to grow. With regular use, AHA's can reduce the look of wrinkles, discolorations, sun damage, and blemishes.
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Alpha hydroxy acids aren't the only things that help oily/acne prone skin. What comes after alpha? Beta! That's right, there's just one beta hydroxy acid (BHA) which most of you know as salicylic acid. BHA's actually do the same thing as AHA's.
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Benzoyl Peroxide is another product that treats acne and controls oil production. This stuff kills bacteria that can clog pores and cause acne.
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Sunscreen Alert!
You should always use sunscreen whenever you use AHA's (actually, you should use it everyday, no matter what you use).
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Step by Step

1. Wash your face with a cleanser that contains both alpha and beta hydroxy acids, like Neutrogena Pore Refining Cleanser. Make sure to lather for at least one minute so that ingredients actually penetrate the skin and go to work.

2. (Optional) Use an alcohol free toner that contains glycolic acid and or salicylic acid.

3. Apply a thin layer of benzoyl peroxide acne treatment, like Zapzyt, to skin.

4. Most acne treatments, including benzoyl peroxide, dry the skin up. So, be sure to follow with a good moisturizer.

Tip: During the day, a good sunscreen can be your moisturizer. Coppertone Ultra Sheer Sunscreen has collagen, elastin, vitamins, and antioxidants that protect your skin from environmental damage. The best part about this sunscreen? It's inexpensive and non-greasy!
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Follow these steps and you'll be on your way to clear skin in no time!