It is a common misconception that only people with oily skin suffer from acne. Even though it is true that oily skin types are more susceptible to acne breakouts, people with dry skin can also suffer from acne breakouts. But, how can you treat dry skin and acne when most acne products contain ingredients that are known to cause irritation?

First of all, dry skin can flake and crack allowing acne bacteria to enter the skin. Harsh products can make your skin even drier. So, keeping your skin moisturized is the key to keeping acne under control.

Your daily cleansing routine should be modified to include the following steps:

Step One: Cleanse with Oil

Try to avoid using soapy cleansers on dry skin because it may cause irritation, instead try using oil. You may believe that oil can promote more acne breakouts, however, a natural acne remedy can actually help prevent acne if it is a non-comedogenic oil used to cleanse skin.

Here is a simple home acne remedy you might want to try. Combine 1/4 teaspoon of castor oil with 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil. Apply and massage for 2 to 3 minutes.

You can remove the mask using a warm, moist washcloth on your face for a few minutes. Once the cloth cools, wipe the oil from your skin.

Step Two: Treat Acne with Tea Tree oil

One of the most common acne creams on the market is Benzoyl peroxide. However, it can irritate dry skin. Tea tree oil is an effective and gentler substitute for benzoyl peroxide.

This product can be found in cream form or in oil form. You can purchase it at a health food store or online.

Application is simple. All you need to do is soak a cotton ball in water and add 3 to 4 drops of tea tree oil to the ball. Apply the diluted oil on the areas where your skin is most prone to acne breakouts. Once your skin becomes accustomed to the oil, it can be used without being diluted.

Step Three: Keep your Moisturizer Handy

If you use the proper amount of moisturizer, the oils in the skin can balance out. This can help you reduce the frequency of acne breakouts. Try using an oil-free, non comedogenic formula to control the amount of oil you are applying to your face.

If you find that your skin dries out during the day, go ahead and apply more moisturizer. You needn't worry if you apply more moisturizing cream, dry skin is known to withstand being moisturized more than twice a day.

Other Ways of Treating Acne

You may decide that traditional products designed for oily skin types or better suited for your skin problem. If this is the case, it is recommended that gradually increase the use of this type of product until your skin becomes accustomed to it. If you'd like, you can also try following with a thicker moisturizer.