Getting rid of acne without using over-the-counter or prescription treatments involves taking care of the skin and reducing the number of acne triggers in your life. It may be possible to get rid of mild to moderate acne in this manner. However, if you suffer from severe acne or acne that doesn't respond to these measures, visit a dermatologist. Failing to treat acne can lead to permanent scarring, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Step 1
Wash the acne-prone area once or twice per day using a gentle cleanser and warm water. If you wash the area more often than that, you may irritate it more, causing acne blemishes to worsen or form.
Step 2
Keep cool. Medline Plus states that sweat and humidity are acne triggers. If you must go into situations that may cause you to sweat or if you are exposed to high humidity, rinse your skin with cool water as soon as you can.
Step 3
Limit the stress in your life. Deep breathing exercises and meditation are two methods of stress relief, according to Harvard University.
Step 4
Stay out of the sun or wear clothing and hats that will protect your acne-prone skin from the sun.
Step 5
Wear loose clothing that allows your skin to get air. Friction, heat and sweat are acne triggers. If you wear tight clothing or clothing that traps heat near your skin, you may aggravate your acne.
Step 6
Shampoo your hair to control oils in your hair that may transfer to your skin and make acne worse. Additionally, avoid oil-based hair-care products, such as pomades, if the hair comes into contact with your skin, according to AcneNet.
Step 7
Apply noncomedogenic or water-based skin-care products to your skin, according to MayoClinic.com. Other products may clog the pores and irritate acne-prone skin.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't pick at the blemishes, which may cause the blemishes to get worse and lead to scarring.
Things You'll Need
- Gentle cleanser
- Shampoo
- Noncomedogenic or water-based skin-care products
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