Simple Steps to Care for Your Skin
In addition to talking to a doctor, there are some healthy, at-home habits you can build to take care of your skin:
Step 1
Cleanse:
Use a gentle, soap-free cleanser in the morning and evening. Washing frequently or with a harsh cleanser can irritate your skin, possibly making your acne worse.
Step 2
Dry:
Gently pat skin dry with a soft cloth. Don’t scrub your skin dry—you could irritate the skin.
Step 3
Moisturize:
If your skin feels dry, use a non-comedogenic moisturizer—apply while skin is still a little damp to lock-in moisture.
More Ways to Take Control
Manage Triggers:
Pay attention to the toll your environment and lifestyle are having on your skin—be aware and adjust accordingly.
Makeup Tips:
Use products that are labeled non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic. Don’t forget to wash off makeup before going to bed.
Hair Care:
Avoid getting hair sprays, gels or pomades on your forehead and face because they may clog pores.
Protect:
Use sunscreen every day, year-round, to combat the damaging effects of the sun. Multitask your non-comedogenic moisturizer—look for formulas that include sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection.
Hands Off:
Never squeeze or pick at your pimples, since that will only contribute to infection, inflammation and scarring.