November 22, 2024 | 4 minute read
Many teens and adults struggle with acne and find it difficult to be confident in their skin when they have breakouts. Some people may feel the need to conceal their acne under layers of makeup, while others may feel uncomfortable taking pictures of themselves. This blog discusses some of the top tips for managing and preventing acne to help people along on their journey to clearer skin.
How to Treat Acne and Get Clearer Skin
Many people strive for perfectly clear and blemish-free skin. Yet achieving flawless skin can be difficult when acne persists, causing breakouts on the face, neck, and other body areas. If acne prevents you from wearing the clothes you want or lowers your self-esteem, it may be time to take action for your skin’s health. There are some simple steps that you can implement into your everyday routine to help manage your acne and prevent future breakouts from occurring.
1. Cleanse Your Skin Daily
If you’re not already cleansing your skin daily, this is an easy step that can greatly impact your skin. Many dermatologists recommend using a gentle facial cleanser that is fragrance-free and does not contain exfoliants. This is because scented products and harsh exfoliants can irritate your skin and cause more harm than good.
Some people may benefit from washing their face twice daily, once in the morning and once at night. Others, particularly those with dryer skin, may prefer washing their face only once at the end of the day.
2. Find a Skincare Routine That Works for You
Developing a simple skincare routine that you can reasonably use every day can do wonders for managing and preventing acne. If you don’t have an everyday skincare routine yet, you can start by finding a facial cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen that works for you. As discussed in the previous tip, choosing products that are gentle, non-abrasive, and unscented is essential.
Finding the right products for you may take some trial and error; however, when you do find products that work well for your skin, it is recommended to keep using them, as switching out skincare products too often can irritate your skin. Additionally, if you wear makeup, it is important to completely remove all makeup from your face at the end of the day, as leaving makeup on overnight can clog your pores and cause more breakouts.
3. Stay Hydrated
Drinking lots of water throughout the day is a good habit for your general health, and it can also help clear up your skin. The amount of water you should be drinking each day will depend on your weight and how much physical activity you are doing. In general, it is often recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water daily (with each glass being eight ounces).
4. Wear Sunscreen
Sunscreen should be a part of your daily skincare routine. Most dermatologists recommend wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even on colder days when the sun doesn’t appear to be out. Sunscreen is one of the best ways to protect yourself from sun damage and skin cancer. While many people associate sun damage with sunburns, it is important to know that sun damage can also worsen the appearance of acne and cause acne scars to become darker and more apparent.
5. Avoid Touching Your Acne
Refrain from touching your face and popping pimples. Every time you touch your face, you transfer oils from your hands to your face, which can cause more acne. Picking at or popping pimples can also worsen acne and may cause acne scarring.
Have More Questions About Acne Treatment in Scottsdale, AZ?
If you’re struggling with acne, it may be time to consider scheduling a consultation with a dermatologist for a professional evaluation. The Skin & Cancer Center of Scottsdale offers acne evaluations and a variety of treatment options, ranging from non-prescription treatments to surgical procedures, depending on the severity of the patient’s condition.
To learn more about your treatment options or to schedule a consultation, call (480) 596-1110 or fill out our online contact form today.