Two major causes of acne are hormones and bacteria on the surface of the skin. As your skin produces oil, it traps bacteria inside the pores and causes breakouts. People who experience hormone surges, such as teenagers, experience acne breakouts because the hormones increase oil production. Individuals who have inherited oily skin may also have more breakouts than others. To effectively treat and manage your acne breakouts, you must control the amount of oil and bacteria on your skin. With proper hygiene you can treat your acne breakouts in five weeks or less.
Step 1
Wash your face in the morning with an acne cleanser containing an antibacterial agent or a drying agent such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Wash gently with your fingers, in a circular motion. Splash warm water on your face to rinse, then follow with cool water to tighten your pores. Pat your face dry with a soft, clean towel.
Step 2
Use a mild astringent to further tighten your pores and remove excess oil from your skin. Use an astringent with benzoyl peroxide, but if you have sensitive skin, use a mild astringent without benzoyl peroxide.
Step 3
Apply an anti-acne cream to the areas where you have breakouts. If you have large patches of clear skin, do not apply the cream to these areas because the chemicals might dry and irritate that skin.
Step 4
Apply a noncomedogenic moisturizer with sunscreen to your entire face. The moisturizer will counteract the drying effects of the acne medication and protect your skin from sun damage.
Step 5
Carry oil-blotting pads with you throughout the day to blot excess oil from your skin throughout the day. You might not need them, but keep them on hand just in case.
Step 6
Follow the same routine before bed, but after washing your face, apply an acne facial mask to the areas where you have breakouts. Allow the mask to dry or leave it on as long as specified by the manufacturer. Gently rinse with warm water, followed by cool water. You may also use a moisturizer without sunscreen at night.
Tips and Warnings
- At the end of the five weeks or when the breakouts have cleared, continue the morning and evening regimens using a face cleanser, astringent and moisturizer designed for oily skin. Omit the acne cream and acne mask. Consult your physician if over-the-counter acne remedies do not work. Stop using the acne medicine immediately if you experience burning, swelling, redness or itching. Do not squeeze, pop or pick at your breakouts. The bacteria and oil on your hands can cause breakouts to spread; do not touch your face if possible.
Things You'll Need
- Anti-acne facial cleanser
- Astringent
- Anti-acne cream
- Noncomedogenic moisturizer
- Oil-blotting pads
- Anti-acne face mask
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