Acne is an extremely common skin problem, particularly in teenagers. The American Academy of Dermatology states that each year 85 percent of American teenagers suffer from acne. Clearing up pimples can be difficult, particularly if you have moderate to severe acne. You can make lifestyle changes and use over-the-counter products to help clear up many blemishes, and a dermatologist can often help when those methods fail to control your acne adequately.
Step 1
Wash your face with warm water and a gentle, unscented cleanser twice a day. This helps to remove excess oil, which can clog pores and lead to pimples. Scrubbing and washing too often can irritate your skin and make acne worse, explains the Mayo Clinic.
Step 2
Apply a medicated acne cream or gel on your face or anywhere else you get pimples once or twice a day. Look for medicated products that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur or lactic acid to help to clear up mild acne.
Step 3
Use a moisturizer after washing your face and applying topical medications if your skin is extremely dry. Purchase a water-based moisturizer that will not clog your pores and make pimples worse.
Step 4
Avoid cosmetics as much as possible. If you must use them, look for products labeled "noncomedogenic." This means they will not clog your pores and cause pimples.
Step 5
Talk to your dermatologist about prescription-strength acne treatments. Prescription topical creams and gels contain higher concentrations of acne-fighting medications. Oral antibiotics or contraceptives can help some individuals. A strong prescription medication called isotretinoin, or Accutane, can help to clear up severe cystic acne, though it does have the potential to cause serious side effects.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep your hair away from your face and shampoo it regularly to prevent your hair oils from clogging your pores. Wash cosmetics off before going to sleep and wash makeup applicators regularly to help prevent breakouts, recommends the Mayo Clinic.
- Stop using over-the-counter acne products if you develop a rash or severe skin irritation. While some drying is normal, your skin may be too sensitive to these products. Do not combine more than one acne medication at a time unless directed to do so by your doctor or dermatologist. Do not pick or pop your pimples. This can make your problem worse and cause scarring, warns the American Academy of Dermatology. Many topical acne medications can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Always use sunscreen with a high sun protection factor, or SPF.
Things You'll Need
- Gentle facial cleanser
- Acne cream or gel
- Moisturizer
- Noncomedogenic cosmetics
- Sunscreen
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