Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, affecting between 17 and 45 million people. Acne develops when the skin overproduces sebum, which is trapped in pores clogged by dead skin cells. Overproduction of sebum can be genetic, hormonal or related to diet. Pores become clogged when skin cells turn over more quickly than they are exfoliated. Acne typically responds well to treatment, and you should see results within weeks.
Step 1
Wash your face, back and chest with an acne-clearing cleanser. Look for a product that contains salicylic acid, which speeds cell turnover, unclogging pores.
Step 2
Apply a topical cream directly to acne. Choose a product that contains either salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which kills bacteria on the skin.
Step 3
Use a moisturizer with SPF every morning. Some people avoid moisturizers, believing they will worsen acne. Choose a moisturizer that is non-comedogenic, meaning it will not clog pores. Protecting your skin from the sun reduces your risk of developing permanent marks from acne.
Step 4
Spread on a moisturizer containing retinol each night. Retinol unclogs pores and may also fade old acne spots. Retinol products can be expensive. You may want to invest in a separate retinol lotion for your chest and back and save the more pricey moisturizer for your face.
Step 5
Wear loose-fitting clothes. Tight-fitting clothes that rub against the skin can cause acne on the chest and back, particularly in the warm summer months. Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothes instead.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't scrub your face vigorously, or over wash. Washing twice a day is enough to keep skin in good condition. Washing too frequently or too vigorously strips oils from the skin. Your skin will over-produce oil to compensate, leading to additional acne. Watch for signs of irritation from acne-clearing products, such as redness and irritation. If you develop these symptoms, apply the products less frequently until symptoms subside. If you do not notice an improvement in four weeks, contact your health-care provider. He may prescribe an oral antibiotic or Accutane.
- Avoid picking at your skin, which will not clear it up quicker, but can lead to scarring.
Things You'll Need
- Acne-clearing cleanser
- Acne-treating lotion
- Moisturizer containing SPF
- Nightime moisturizer
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