Acne can be very embarrassing. Even mild cases can cause redness that might make you feel like Rudolph the Red-Faced Teenager. Adults can also get acne, which may be even more embarrassing. Following a proper skin care regimen that minimizes skin irritation will reduce redness and clear up acne. Touching your face, pinching zits and wearing tight clothing may cause skin to become red, so discontinuing these behaviors can reduce redness.
Step 1
Use a facial soap twice a day to clean oils of your skin and clear up acne. Wash your face gently with a mild cleanser and warm water. Do not use a harsh pad or cloth to clean your face or you may irritate your skin. Use the same soap on your body in areas that you get acne breakouts instead of a regular body cleanser, as recommended by Acne.org.
Step 2
Dry your skin carefully by patting it, or better yet, allow it to air dry. Rubbing your skin to dry it can cause irritation, according to Acne.org.
Step 3
Use a topical cream that you can purchase over the counter to fight acne. Some creams may irritate your skin. Apply the topical medication less frequently to cut back on irritation and redness if these conditions occur. Be aware that the use of these creams can make rosacea conditions worse.
Step 4
Stay out of the sun. Tanned skin may make acne redness become less noticeable for a while, but it will not make acne go away, according to KidsHealth.com. Protect your skin by covering up with clothing, wearing a hat and sunglasses, and applying a sunscreen with a minimum of 15 SPF. Use a sunscreen that is noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic, as these are less likely to clog your pores and cause more acne.
Step 5
Ask your dermatologist for an oral antibiotic to treat moderate or severe acne, as recommended by the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Do not stop taking the antibiotic unless told to by your doctor.
Step 6
Shave carefully. Shaving can cause red bumps and acne, according to Acne Treatment Bulletin. Warm up your skin prior to shaving in the shower, bath, or with warm water. Spread a shaving cream onto your skin so the razor will operate smoothly without irritation. Make sure your blade is sharp. Use a toner or antibacterial gel after shaving to fight acne-causing bacteria, but do not use one with alcohol. Alcohol can irritate your skin.
Tips and Warnings
- Some oral contraceptives may reduce acne caused by hormones in teenage and adult women, according to Kids Health. Ask your doctor about this option. It is helpful to see a dermatologist to ensure that the redness is from regular acne and not a skin condition like Rosacea.
Things You'll Need
- Face soap
- Topical acne medication
- Toner
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