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Generally speaking, oily skin is more prone to acne than other skin types. However, this does not mean that combination and dry skin can be thought of as acne-free skin types because while combination skin can withstand the same treatments for acne that oily skin can, dry skin most definitely requires another approach.

When acne affects dry skin it appears under the surface of the skin creating itchy and painful nodules. As with any type of skin, do not pick at your lesions as this can lead to more widespread infection and inflammation.

Instead, use a moisturizer to alleviate your acne. This may seem senseless to most people, but when treating dry skin it is quite effective, and here's why:

Dry skin lacks moisture. If it is not properly hydrated, it will lead to cracks in the skin through which acne bacteria enter. By moisturizing your skin properly, you are actually keeping it safe from bacterial intruders and safe from acne formation.

Another way to keep your skin moisturized is to use oil as a cleanser. Not just any oil will do, however. You can use a non-comedogenic oil, like olive oil, and massage it gently into your skin.

Remove it with a moist washcloth and apply your moisturizer as you would normally do. This can help balance out the natural oils in your skin. In fact, it is especially helpful for people with extremely dry skin.

Following a proper cleansing routine that includes a good acne cream will also help prevent acne and treat acne lesions. You shouldn't use products designed for oily skin because these types of acne treatments are usually too harsh for dry skin.

A regular cleansing routine will help you deal with mild and moderate acne. However, you will need to rely on a medical professional if you have severe acne. Avoiding proper treatment of acne will only worsen the problem and lead to acne scarring which often requires serious acne scar removal.

Dry skin is too sensitive to withstand products that contain retinol, salicylic acid, and sulfur. Instead of these ingredients, try looking for products that are made with tea tree oil or vitamin B complex. Or if you'd like, you can use products that contain AHAs but do so wisely because they are known to cause irritation in some people.

Tea tree oil should initially be used once a week to allow your skin time enough to adjust and become accustomed to it. It can also be diluted with a couple of drops of water or by using a few drops of your usual moisturizer. It doesn't matter which method you use, both will help reduce its irritating power.

AHAs are excellent exfoliators and can reduce the level of flaking that accompanies dry skin. You can either find a creamy moisturizer made with AHAs or mix them into your moisturizer.