There is no instant way to clear acne or blemishes, but strategies that can help include avoiding touching the skin or popping pimples, washing frequently, and using products suited to the specific problem and the person’s skin type.
In general, people with acne or blemishes have skin that is dry, oily, or a combination of the two. Numerous skin care tips exist for different skin types, and there are also general tips that people can try.
Anyone uncertain about their skin care routine should consult a dermatologist for additional advice.
Read on to discover general skin care tips, as well as tips for people with dry, oily, or combination skin types.
Avoid popping pimples
A pimple indicates trapped oil, sebum, and bacteria. It is also a sign that the body’s natural healing mechanism is working.
Popping the pimple disrupts this healing process. Additionally, the released liquids expose the surrounding skin to similar bacteria, increasing the risk of additional pimples forming.
The exposed pimple may also lead to permanent scarring. Whenever possible, avoid popping pimples. If they drain, keep the area clean.
Wash twice daily, and again after sweating
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that people wash twice daily and then again after sweating.
Leaving sweat on the skin and allowing it to dry can make acne worse, so it is best to wash the skin as soon as possible after sweating.
Avoid touching the face
Touching the face with the hands can deposit dirt, oils, and bacteria onto the skin and lead to breakouts. Avoiding touching the face can help prevent this.
Moisturize
All skin types can benefit from moisturizing after a daily face wash. Keeping the face moisturized may help control sebum production and prevent damage from the outside elements.
The most effective moisturizer will vary in each case, depending on the person’s skin type. Anyone uncertain of what moisturizers will work for them should contact a dermatologist.
Some types they may recommend include oil-free moisturizers and moisturizers that are noncomedogenic, which means that they do not clog the pores.
Always wear sunscreen
The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays damage the skin. Wearing sunscreen whenever outdoors can help protect the skin from these harmful rays.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, it is best to wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when spending time outdoors. Wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 15 daily can also help reduce damage to the skin.
If spending time outdoors, it is best to apply sunscreen around 30 minutes before going outside, and then reapplying it every 2 hours.
