Acne is a fact of life most people deal with at some point and in some form. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports it is the most common skin disease in the United States, with between 17 and 45 million people affected. Acne is caused when the sebaceous glands produce too much oil, which then blocks hair follicles and causes inflammation and blockage. Treating acne properly is critical to minimizing breakouts and preventing it from spreading or worsening.
Step 1
Wash your face with a mild cleanser once or twice a day; don't wash more frequently unless you've been perspiring heavily. Splash water on your face, then gently apply the cleanser with your fingertips. Rinse your face with lukewarm water and pat dry with a towel.
Step 2
Apply a topical acne treatment five to 15 minutes after washing; since wet skin is more absorbent, applying the treatment immediately after washing can cause irritation. Use products that list benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid as the active ingredient.
Step 3
Keep your hands away from your face. Picking or popping pimples may seem to help eliminate them, but this can cause acne to worsen and lead to scarring.
Step 4
Visit a dermatologist if over-the-counter treatments are not having an impact on your acne. A dermatologist can prescribe more potent medication or additional treatment that can be used in conjunction with or in place of other methods. Follow the dermatologist's instructions on exact use.
Tips and Warnings
- It can take six to eight weeks to see an improvement and six months to see clear skin. Don't stop using medication as soon as your acne clears up--the American Academy of Dermatology suggests using at least one acne medication to continue keeping your skin clear.
- Toners, astringents and facial masks can irritate skin and make acne worse, so it's important to stick with a gentle cleansing method. Some acne medications can make skin especially sensitive to sunlight, so avoid spending time in the sun when possible, and wear proper protection when outside. Makeup, moisturizers and sunscreen with oil in them can clog pores and make acne worse. Look for noncomedogenic, or oil-free, products.
Things You'll Need
- Mild facial cleanser
- Topical acne medicine
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