Acne is generally the result of increased oil production that happens during puberty combined with blockages in your pores. Bacteria gets trapped in the skin and acne is produced, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Washing your face and areas of your body that are prone to acne, washing your hair, and even using acne creams can eliminate acne. Mild to moderate cases of acne can be treated with proper skin care, but if this doesn't work you should see a dermatologist. He or she may advice certain treatments for your acne such as intralesional corticosteroid therapy, surgery, or taking Accutane. Accutane is a prescription medication that you can only get from your doctor.
Step 1
Wash your skin with a mild, antibacterial face soap two times a day, as recommended by the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Wash your skin after you exercise as well as sweat can cause acne. Avoid cleansers that feel abrasive or irritate your skin. Skin irritation leads to further acne. Use this mild facial cleanser on your back, neck, chest, buttocks, and shoulders too if those areas are also effected by acne.
Step 2
Shampoo your hair. Use shampoo every other day if it is dry or normal, and every day if your hair is oily, as recommended by both the National Institutes of Health and the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. You should also keep your hair off your skin so the oils in your hair do not cause acne.
Step 3
Try an acne cream or gel that contains 10 percent alpha hydroxy acid and/or benzoyl peroxide if simple washing of your skin doesn't eliminate acne alone. These products should be used on your face or body if you have existing acne, but the products are mainly helpful in preventing acne so use the cream all over the areas prone to acne and not just on the blemishes you already have, as advised by the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Start with applying the cream once a day, and increase per instructions for that product.
Step 4
Cut back on the frequency of usage for your topical acne product if your skin becomes irritated, dry, red, or feel tight. Use the product every other day or even every three days to see if that reduces the irritation, as recommended by the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology.
Tips and Warnings
- Astringents should only be used on oily skin and only in the areas that are oily, as advised by the National Institutes of Health.
Things You'll Need
- Face wash
- Shampoo
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