Acne is a notorious cosmetic concern, especially for teenagers, though it's not uncommon for the problem to linger into adulthood. In fact, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, 85 percent of teenagers experience some level of acne outbreak. Acne is attributable to four contributing factors: excess sebum (skin's oil), clogged pores, bacteria and inflammation. Teenagers are the most commonly afflicted because puberty boosts levels of hormones called androgens, which fuel sebum production. Numerous preventative and treatment steps can provide acne relief.
Step 1
Wash your face gently twice a day with a mild soap and warm water. The American Academy of Dermatologists points out that further washing can irritate skin and promote acne outbreaks.
Step 2
Use a facial cleanser after washing. The AAD recommends products made with benzoyl peroxide. Rub the product in gently, rinse your face, and pat it dry.
Step 3
Keep your hair and items that touch your face (such as eyeglasses and phones) clean. This minimizes extra oil from other sources.
Step 4
Remove makeup before going to sleep, as leaving it on clogs pores. The Mayo Clinic also suggests opting for powdered cosmetic products over creams, as they are less irritating to the skin.
Step 5
Try over-the-counter medications for relief from mild acne outbreaks. The Skin Care Physicians site of the AAD recommends looking for products made with any of the following active ingredients: benzoyl peroxide, the combination of acetone and alcohol, resorcinol, sulfur or salicylic acid. The Mayo Clinic adds lactic acid to this list.
Step 6
Ask your dermatologist about prescription acne treatments if over-the-counter products don't suffice. Skin Care Physicians outlines the following options: isotretinoin, interlesional corticosteroid injections, oral antibiotics, oral contraceptives for women and prescription topical applications including antimicrobial agents and retinoids.
Step 7
Ask your dermatologist about cosmetic procedures that can treat acne and its resulting scars if necessary. There are numerous options available to acne sufferers today. They include laser or light therapy, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, dermabrasion, comedo extraction, drainage, surgery and soft tissue fillers.
Tips and Warnings
- The AAD recommends using makeups, sunscreens and other cosmetic products labeled non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic. These won't clog pores like other products.
- Refrain from popping pimples. Teens Health points out that doing so can push bacteria further down into the skin, increasing inflammation and potentially leading to scarring. Skin Care Physicians cautions against over-the-counter acne treatments labeled "natural," "organic" or "herbal." The safety and efficacy of these products are unproven. The idea that eating greasy foods causes acne is a myth. However, individuals may find that certain foods precipitate breakouts. Note yours so you can avoid them.
Things You'll Need
- Facial cleanser
- Over-the-counter acne medicines
- Prescription acne treatments
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