Acne, freckles, boils, whatever they are called, is a skin problem that most people face. Fortunately, there are now many solutions available to control acne, from strict skin treatments, medications and creams, to innovative home remedies. You may have to experiment on your own to find the right solution, but don't worry - this article has a solution for everyone!
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Method 1 of 3: Taking Care of Your Skin
Step 1. Wash your face twice a day
This is very important to keep the face clean so as to prevent acne. Washing your face will remove dust, dirt and any excess oil that builds up on the skin's surface. Ideally, you should wash your face twice a day, in the morning and during the day. At night, use warm water and a mild facial cleanser. Use a clean dry towel to pat your face dry.
- Avoid scrubbing your face with a rough wash cloth, sponge or luffa. This will only irritate the skin and cause the pimple to become more inflamed. Wash cloths can also harbor bacteria, which should be avoided in contact with the face.
- While it may be tempting to wash your face more than twice a day when you're spotty, be aware that this won't always help your skin. Washing your face too often can dry out your skin and cause irritation.
Step 2. Use a non-comedogenic (non-comedogenic) moisturizer
After washing your face, apply a good moisturizer to moisturize the skin and prevent it from drying out and irritated. However, when you are spotty you should use the right type of moisturizer for your skin type. Heavy, oily moisturizers can clog pores and make acne worse. Look for a moisturizer that says "noncomedogenic" on the label - this means it won't cause your skin to become inflamed.
- In addition to looking for a moisturizer that doesn't cause blackheads, you should be careful in choosing products that suit your skin type. For example, if you have very oily skin, you should use a lighter gel-based moisturizer, while for dry, flaky skin, you'll need a heavier cream-based moisturizer.
- Make sure you wash your hands before applying moisturizer. Otherwise, bacteria or germs on your hands can transfer to your face when you apply moisturizer.
Step 3. Avoid touching your face or popping pimples
Your hands come into contact with more dirt and bacteria throughout the day than any other part of your body, which is why you should avoid touching your face. In addition to spreading bacteria and risking infection, touching freckles and pimples can cause irritation and inflammation, making things worse and prolonging healing time.
- Popping a pimple, while satisfying, is one of the worst things you can do for your skin. Popping a pimple will only prolong healing time and may even lead to infection and scarring. Acne scars can be very difficult to get rid of, so you should avoid them.
- It's easy to touch your face without realizing what you're doing. Be careful when supporting your cheek or chin with your hand when sitting at a table, or when you rest your face in your hands at night.
Step 4. Use an exfoliator and face mask once a week
Exfoliants and face masks are very beneficial products for the skin, but should only be used occasionally. Exfoliants will remove dead skin cells and are effective for cleansing the skin, but can dry out and irritate the skin if used frequently, especially on acne-prone skin.
Face masks are great for removing impurities and soothing the skin, and can transform skin care activities just like a spa. However, their use should also be limited to once a week, as masks may contain harsh ingredients that are not for everyday use
Step 5. Avoid using too much product
Too many creams, lotions and gels can clog pores and cause breakouts, so be sure to apply facial products occasionally, and not more often than the package says. The same goes for makeup that is only used occasionally and should be completely removed when using a facial cleanser at the end of the day.
- Hair products that are heavily scented or full of chemicals can also clog pores if hair gets on your face, so avoid using these products as much as possible. Use gentle shampoos and conditioners so they don't irritate your skin in the shower.
- You should also limit your skin's exposure to oils and bacteria that build up by changing your pillowcase at least once a week and by washing your makeup brushes frequently.
Step 6. Protect your skin from the sun
Although the old advice suggested that acne-prone skin be exposed to the sun to dry out acne, modern skin specialists say otherwise. The sun's UV rays can actually cause pimples to become redder and inflamed than they were before.
- For this reason, it is important to protect your skin from the sun by wearing a protective hat and applying a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Note that some sunscreens can be oily and can clog pores, so look for products that say "noncomedogenic" on the label.
Step 7. Eat right
Although chocolate and other junk foods have been shown to not cause acne, avoid oily and fatty foods for the sake of your skin. Acne is formed when excess oil clogs the pores, so limiting the amount of oil that enters the body is the right first step. Plus, a healthy body on the inside will be reflected on the outside.
- Stay away from foods like potato chips, chocolate, pizza and French fries. These foods are high in fat, sugar and starch, which are not good for skin or overall health. You don't have to stop completely, but just limit the intake.
- Eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. Its water content helps to moisturize the skin, while vitamins and minerals give the body the ammunition it needs to fight acne. In particular, eat fruits and vegetables high in vitamin A (such as broccoli, spinach and carrots), as they will help to expel acne-causing proteins from the body. Fruits high in vitamins E and C (oranges, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, avocados) have antioxidant effects and help to soothe the skin.
Step 8. Drink plenty of water
Drinking water has many benefits for your skin and overall health. Drinking keeps the body hydrated, helps skin look firm and plump. Drinking will expel toxins from the body, and prevent skin problems. In addition, water helps ensure proper metabolic function of the skin, and allows it to regenerate itself. You should drink 5 to 8 glasses of water a day for good health.
- Illness can also come from drinking too much water. Therefore, you do not have to drink constantly. Too much water will dilute the blood which is a health risk, and can cause seizures in extreme cases. Stick to about 8 glasses, and you'll be fine.
- You should also stay away from excessive alcohol consumption. Alcohol disrupts hormonal balance, and imbalances in hormones such as testosterone and estrogen are one of the main causes of acne. In addition, alcohol causes damage to the liver, which is the main organ responsible for healthy skin, as it regulates hormones and blood sugar levels, and filters out toxins.
Method 2 of 3: Using Creams, Medications and Treatments
Step 1. Use an over-the-counter cream
If it doesn't go away, you have to do more than just keep your face clean and eat healthy. Fortunately, there are many over-the-counter creams that can treat and prevent more acne breakouts. These creams are usually applied directly to the pimple, and in most cases will show a significant improvement in skin condition, within 6 to 8 weeks. The most common active ingredients found in this cream are:
- Benzoyl Peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide kills bacteria on the surface of the skin, and also slows down the production of oil in the pores. Apart from peeling off the layers, it also helps the skin to rejuvenate itself. Benzoyl peroxide can dry out and irritate the skin, so you should take the lowest dose.
- Salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is an ingredient that helps kill acne-causing bacteria. It also helps to break up blackheads and whiteheads that can develop into pimples once infected. In addition, salicylic acid helps the skin to peel off old and dead layers, prevents clogged pores and allows new skin cells to form.
- Sulfur. Sulfur contains antibacterial properties and helps to break up whiteheads and blackheads, preventing them from getting infected and forming pimples.
- Retin-A. Retin-A contains an acidic form of vitamin A, known as "all-trans retinoic acid", which operates like a chemical peel, exfoliating the skin and opening clogged pores.
- Azelic Acid. Azelic acid minimizes the appearance of acne by preventing oil build-up and reducing inflammation and bacterial growth. It is especially effective for those with darker skin tones.
Step 2. Ask a dermatologist to prescribe a strong topical cream
Some people think that over-the-counter creams are not strong enough to combat stubborn acne. In this case, you can ask your doctor to prescribe a higher dose of topical medication.
- Most prescription creams contain an active ingredient derived from vitamin A. Examples include products such as tretinoin, adapalene and tazarotene. This cream works by promoting cell turnover and preventing hair follicles from becoming clogged.
- There are also prescription antibacterial creams, which work by killing bacteria on the skin's surface.
Step 3. Consider taking antibiotics
In cases of moderate to severe acne, your doctor may recommend a combination of topical creams and oral antibiotics. This will help reduce inflammation along with bacterial growth. Antibiotic treatment will usually last between 4-6 months, although you should see improvement in the skin in about six weeks.
- Unfortunately, many people today easily build resistance to antibiotics, so this form of treatment doesn't always work as effectively.
- Some antibiotics (such as tetracycline) will reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, so women should use other forms of contraception while taking antibiotics.
Step 4. In cases of severe acne, consider an isotretinoin treatment
If all treatments don't work and the acne gets worse, a dermatologist may suggest an isotretinoin treatment. Isotretinoin is closely related to vitamin A and works by reducing sebum oil production and shrinking oil-producing glands. The period of isotretinoin usually lasts about 20 weeks, and during this time patients should be closely monitored, as most drugs have side effects.
- When taking isotretinoin, acne may get worse before it gets better. The inflammation usually only lasts for a few weeks, but sometimes it can last for the duration of treatment.
- Some of the side effects associated with isotretinoin treatment include dry skin and eyes, dryness, chapped lips, sensitivity to sunlight, and less commonly headaches, hair loss, mood swings and depression.
- This treatment is often associated with severe birth defects, so it cannot be prescribed to pregnant women or women seeking pregnancy. Women should take a pregnancy test before a doctor prescribes this medicine.
Step 5. If you are a woman, consider using oral contraceptives
Since many acne problems are related to hormonal imbalances, oral contraceptives can be a great way to regulate hormone production and reduce acne in women - especially those related to the menstrual cycle. Oral contraceptives containing a combination of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol are generally the most effective.
Oral contraceptives in rare cases can produce serious side effects, such as blood clots, high blood pressure. At a higher risk of causing heart disease, so make sure you have discussed this treatment thoroughly with your doctor
Step 6. Find out about professional care
There are many treatments available at spas and skin clinics that can significantly improve the appearance of acne-prone skin, when used with some of the treatments mentioned above. This treatment is a little expensive, but can provide longer-lasting results than other treatments, and helps prevent and reduce scarring. These treatments include:
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Laser therapy.
Laser therapy works by penetrating deep into the skin and damaging the oil glands that produce sebum - the part that causes acne.
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Light therapy.
Bacterial light therapy targets acne-causing skin's surface, reducing inflammation and improving skin texture.
- Chemical peeler. Chemical exfoliants will burn the surface of the skin in a controlled manner, causing the top layer to peel off and reveal fresh, new skin underneath. This treatment is excellent for removing marks or scars that remain after the pimple has cleared.
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Microdermabrasion.
Microdermabrasion uses a rotating wire brush to exfoliate the top layer of skin and reveal new, smooth skin underneath. This can be a little uncomfortable and can make the skin look red and rough for a few days until it heals completely.
Method 3 of 3: Using Home Remedies
Herbal medicine
Step 1. Use tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is one of the best natural treatments. Extracted from the leaves of the Australian Melaleuca alternifolia plant, tea tree oil has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties that effectively fight acne-causing bacteria on the skin. Simply dab a drop or two of pure tea tree oil on the tip of a clean cotton swab and apply it directly to the pimple. Do this twice a day, and the pimples will be gone in no time!
- Tea tree oil is an essential oil and is therefore highly concentrated. If you overuse or apply oil to unaffected skin, it can become dry and irritated, so use it sparingly and only when needed.
- One study found that tea tree oil was just as effective at fighting acne as the chemical in benzoyl peroxide. Tea tree oil has a slightly longer lasting effect, but fewer negative side effects.
Step 2. Apply honey
Honey is an amazing natural healing product. In addition to its antibacterial, antiseptic and hydrating properties, honey makes it an excellent choice for fighting acne, especially if you have sensitive skin. Manuka honey and raw honey are great for reducing inflamed acne.
- You can apply honey as a treatment, or use it as a face mask by applying it all over your face when your skin is clean and moisturized. Honey is non-irritating, you can leave it on your skin for as long as you want.
- One thing to keep in mind is that honey, like other home remedies, works to clear up existing acne (due to its antibacterial properties), but is less able to prevent pimples from appearing (especially those caused by hormonal imbalances).
Step 3. Try lavender essential oil
This oil is well known for its calming properties, and it can also be used to treat acne just like tea tree oil. Lavender oil is often used on burns, because it contains healing properties that make it beneficial for acne as well. In addition, lavender oil contains strong antibacterial properties, helping to clean pores and reduce the appearance of acne.
To use it, apply a drop of pure oil directly to the pimple using the tip of a cotton swab. Be careful not to touch the surrounding skin, as pure lavender oil can be irritating to the skin
Step 4. Use aloe vera
Take a piece of aloe vera, apply it on the pimple. Massage the skin with aloe vera on the pimple area. Leave it for half an hour, then wash it off with warm water.
Cold Medicine
Step 1. Try ice cubes
Pimples often feel red and inflamed, so what's better than cold ice to cool an inflamed pimple? The ice will reduce inflammation and redness, which will significantly improve the treatment of acne. Simply wrap an ice cube in a paper towel or clean cloth, then press gently on the pimple for a minute or two.
Another additional tip is to make ice cubes from strong green tea and use it on pimples. In addition to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, studies have shown that certain antioxidant green teas are helpful in reducing sebum production
Bathroom Medicine
Step 1. Use toothpaste
The idea of using toothpaste on acne has been around for a long time. Although the moon is the most effective treatment, it is very helpful in an emergency. Toothpaste contains ingredients like baking soda and hydrogen peroxide that dry out pimples, helping them heal faster.
Choose a white, fluoride-free toothpaste, if possible, and make sure that you apply it directly to the pimple, not the surrounding skin, as other ingredients in toothpaste can irritate and even burn the skin
Step 2. Apply crushed aspirin
The technical name for aspirin is acetylsalicylic acid which is closely related to salicylic acid, a well-known acne treatment. Aspirin is an anti-inflammatory which when applied topically can help reduce the size and redness of pimples. You just need to crush an aspirin tablet and add a drop or two of water to form a paste, which can be applied directly to the pimple.
Alternatively, you can make a face mask by crushing up to five or six aspirin tablets, and adding enough water to make a paste. Apply it all over your face and leave it on for about ten to fifteen minutes before rinsing it off
Kitchen Medicine
Step 1. Use tomatoes
Tomatoes are a useful home remedy for acne, as most homes have tomatoes in the kitchen. Tomatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, as mentioned above, are key ingredients for acne medications. Tomato juice is also a natural substance that will cause the surface of the pimple to contract and shrink.
To use it, simply chop a fresh tomato and rub it directly onto the pimple. Do this twice a day and you will see the difference
Step 2. Apply fresh lemon juice
Applying fresh lemon juice to pimples is one of the most popular home remedies. Lemons contain high amounts of vitamin C, along with citric acid which helps to exfoliate and dry out pimples. Lemon juice also contains bleaching agents which can significantly reduce the redness of the pimple. A little fresh lemon juice can be applied directly to the pimple before going to bed and left overnight.
- Lemon juice doesn't have to be rubbed on the skin all day, unless you plan to stay indoors. This is because the juice makes the skin sensitive to light, which increases the risk of sun damage.
- Like many other home remedies, lemon juice should only be applied directly to the pimple, and not to the surrounding skin. This is because the citric acid in lemons can burn the skin.
Tips
Remember to be patient. It may take weeks or months to see improvement in the skin after a new medication or skin care activity. However, if several months have passed and there is no improvement in the skin, try other treatment options
Warning
- Stop using medications that irritate the skin.
- Most home remedies are not supported by modern science and will not work for everyone. Natural treatments may be a trial and error process to find out what works for you.
