Home | Health | Skincare & Skin Conditions | Acne Care | How to Care for My Acne Complexion

How to Care for My Acne Complexion

by Anne-Marie Monroe

  • Overview

    For many people, the effects of acne are more than just skin deep; it also hinders their self-confidence. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is the most common skin disease in the United States affecting 40 to 50 million Americans. Yet there are many ways to combat acne and emerge from it with a clear, healthy face.

  • Instructions

 

  • Step 1

    Select an over-the-counter cleanser with the acne-treating ingredients benzoyl and salicylic acid. Both have anti-bacterial properties and can easily be incorporated into your daily face-washing routine. The cleanser also can be applied for spot treatments. Treat blackheads with an exfoliating microgranular scrub several times a week.

  • Step 2

    Use a moisturizer that is non-comedogenic. These types of moisturizers will not clog pores or irritate skin. Oily, acne-prone skin works well with Clinique's Superdefense Triple Action Moisturizer SPF 25, and Aveeno Ultra Calming Daily Moisturizer SPF 15 caters to sensitive skin.

  • Step 3

    Minimize your stress levels. Stress causes hormonal imbalances that often worsen an acne problem. According to a study conducted by the Stanford School of Medicine in 2002, the students who experienced the most stress during exam time suffered from the worst acne.

  • Step 4

    Visit a dermatologist for a gentle extraction or try an at-home glycolic peel to unclog pores and reduce acne. If you suffer from cystic, scarring acne, ask your dermatologist about accutane. Over-the-counter products might not be enough to resolve your condition.

  • Step 5

    Avoid any foods that are rich in sugar, fats, chemical additives and colorings. They might aggravate your acne breakouts. If you have persistent acne, you might also want to pass on drinking milk; research studies have linked dairy to causing acne in teen-agers, according to New York City dermatologist Dr. Sapna Westley.
  • 2
  • Cleanser Moisturizer Oral contraceptive (if female)
  • Cleanser
  • Moisturizer
  • Oral contraceptive (if female)
  • Try tea tree oil if you are looking for a natural remedy. It is also anti-bacterial and can help clear up acne when applied three times a day for fast results. Women can consider using an oral contraceptive as part of their acne treatment. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, there are several brands that effectively combat acne and have received FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) approval. Get a cortisone shot from your dermatologist if you develop a large painful pimple or cyst. This will help to shrink the cyst quickly and eliminate scarring.
  • Try tea tree oil if you are looking for a natural remedy. It is also anti-bacterial and can help clear up acne when applied three times a day for fast results.
  • Women can consider using an oral contraceptive as part of their acne treatment. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, there are several brands that effectively combat acne and have received FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) approval.
  • Get a cortisone shot from your dermatologist if you develop a large painful pimple or cyst. This will help to shrink the cyst quickly and eliminate scarring.
  • Proceed with caution when using do-it-yourself extractions because they may lead to scarring and inflammation if you are too aggressive.
  • Proceed with caution when using do-it-yourself extractions because they may lead to scarring and inflammation if you are too aggressive.

References & Resources

     
     
 
 

Popular Topics