How to Treat Acne and Blemishes

How to Treat Acne and Blemishes
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Acne blemishes are a common skin condition that affects people of all ages and skin types. There are many different skin care products on the market, and it can be confusing to know which products will clear your skin in the most effective manner. Fortunately, there are a few skin care products that are known to be especially skin-clearing, without causing the skin to become irritated or inflamed. Following a routine that flushes out the pores, medicates the skin properly, and keeps the skin hydrated will allow the skin to clear.

Step 1

Cleanse the skin with a non-comedogenic oil, such as castor oil. Gently rub 1 tsp. of castor oil into your skin using small, circular finger motions. After three minutes, drape a steaming washcloth over your face. Leave the washcloth there until it cools down completely, then use it to wipe away the oil. Repeat twice per day.

Step 2

Apply a low concentration benzoyl peroxide cream to clear acne breakouts. Squeeze a pea-sized amount of benzoyl peroxide cream onto your fingers, and spread it onto your face using gentle strokes. Glide your fingers over your skin until it has completely soaked into your face. Repeat twice per day after applying the oil cleanser.

Step 3

Hydrate your skin with an oil-free lotion. Squeeze a dime-sized amount of oil-free lotion onto your fingers, and spread it onto your face. Gently massage the lotion into your skin until it has been absorbed. Repeat twice per day after applying the benzoyl peroxide cream.

Tips and Warnings

  • Castor oil is a highly purgative oil that can be used on the skin without clogging the pores. When applied to the skin, castor oil connects to the impurities within the skin, allowing them to be pulled out once heat is applied. Although it may seem logical to use the highest strength benzoyl peroxide cream to clear acne, it can actually be too irritating on the skin, and can cause peeling, burning and redness. To clear the skin effectively, without irritating the skin, it is important to only use the 2.5 percent benzoyl peroxide cream. Keeping the skin properly hydrated will prevent the skin from becoming too dry, which can cause the skin to overproduce oils in order to compensate. It is important to use a facial lotion that is oil-free, which will soften the skin without clogging the pores.

Things You'll Need

  • Castor oil
  • Water
  • Washcloth
  • 2.5 percent benzoyl peroxide cream
  • Oil-free facial lotion

References

Article reviewed by JPC Last updated on: Aug 24, 2010

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