Speaking in general terms oily skin is more prone to acne than other skin types. However, this does not mean that combination and dry skin are acne-free. In fact, while combination skin can withstand the same type of treatments for acne that oily skin can, dry skin requires a whole other 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, you should never try and pick at these acne lesions are it will lead to a widespread infection and inflammation.

Instead, treat dry skin acne with a moisturizer. 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.

You can also use oil as a moisturizer for dry skin. However, not just any oil will do. Try using a non-comedogenic oil, like olive oil, and massage it into your skin.

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

Proper cleansing and a good acne cream or product will also help you prevent acne and treat acne lesions. Don't trick yourself into thinking you can treat dry skin acne problems with the same acne treatments used to treat oily skin. These types of treatment 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. Not taking acne seriously will only worsen the problem and lead to acne scarring that will most often require acne scar removal.

Dry skin is too sensitive to withstand products that contain retinol, salicylic acid, and sulfur. Instead of these ingredients look for products that contain 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.

If you decide to use tea tree oil you should use it once a week so that your skin can 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. Either way will help reduce its irritating power.

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