Skin Solutions

What do you do for these common breakouts? Read on to find some easy remedies.

• Back and Chest Acne. Ugh! White-heads and zits where you'd least expect them! The rememdy? An oil absorbing mask. (You may have to ask someone to help you apply it to your back.) Then apply an over-the-counter five or ten percent benzoyl peroxide medication or wash. It also helps to wear breathable fabircs (cotton or linen) and switch to lightweight, oil-free sun protection.
• A Sunscreen Rash. Some sunscreens can react with sun and cause a form of photocontact dermatitis. The rash usually takes about six hours to develop, by which time it's too late to wash the sunscreen off. To remedy it, take two aspirin to relieve the pain and swelling, and use a cloth soaked in ice-cold milk as a compress for five minutes, two to three times a day. Stay out of the sun and don't use makeup, which can irritate it further. For future use, try two sunscreens, one should be 'chemical-free' with titanium dioxide, and the other should contain oxybenzone or PABA derivatives. Apply one to each arm and use the one that causes no discernible reaction in the future.
• Bikini-Line Folliculitis. Shaving quickly or carelessly--without moistening the area or using a shaving cream may cause tiny red bumps along your bikini line. This happens when you nick yourself and the bacteria get in and cause a mild infection. To remedy use a chamomile tea-bag as a compress to soothe and take out the sting. Apply and over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide cream. Use gel or cream every night to soothe until it goes away.