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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.

People with dry skin tend to suffer from "invisible" pimples. What this means is that when acne affects dry skin it does so by creating itchy and painful nodules that appear underneath the skin. 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 is synonymous of an absence of moisture which will lead to invisible cracks that allow acne bacteria to enter and proliferate. By keeping skin moisturized you are actually keeping it strong, healthy, and protected against bacterial intruders.

Another great way of moisturizing your skin naturally is using an oil. Not just any oil will do, however. Use non-comedogenic oils, such as olive oil, and massage it into your skin.

Remove it with a warm, moist washcloth and apply your moisturizer as usual. This change can help balance out the natural oils in your skin. It is especially helpful for people with extremely dry skin.

You can also help prevent acne and treat acne lesions by following a proper cleansing routine that includes a good acne cream. You should not try products designed for oily skin, however. Acne treatments that are designed for oily or combination skin are far 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 salicylic acid, retinol and sulfur. Instead of using products that contain these ingredients you should look for products that contain tea tree oil or vitamin B complex. AHAs can also be used even though they can also cause irritation.

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

AHAs are great exfoliators and can be used to help reduce the level of flaking that accompanies dry skin. You can find a creamy moisturizer that comes with AHAs or you can add them yourself.