1) STOP popping the spots, also known as pimples and zits. This may
make the pimple look worse due to inflammation and irritation. Popping a
zit can spread infection under the skin and produce even more pimples
than before. If you do pop a spot then immediately clean it with soap
and water or rubbing alcohol in order to prevent infection.
2) Remove any make-up you have on. Wearing make-up can clog pores, making them dirty and causing pimples.
3)
Use a mild soap for sensitive skin but it doesn't matter exactly what
type of soap you use. It can be designed for acne-prone skin or not, but
you will want to treat your skin gently. Harsh antibacterial soap may
actually make your acne worse by irritating skin.
4) Remove dead
skin cells regularly by exfoliating. Use a gentle scrub with natural
defoliants like ground walnut shells, or use an over-the-counter
chemical defoliant like salicylic acid or glycolic acid. Adding ground
walnut shell to a thick moisturizer like cocoa butter can be effective
too.
5) Use a good toner. Spray onto face or wipe on with a cotton
ball and wipe off with a clean, dry cotton ball. This gets rid of
excess cleanser and tightens pores. Good, inexpensive choices include
plain witch hazel for normal to dry skin, lemon juice, or 3% hydrogen
peroxide for oily skin.
6) Bacteria in pores is one cause of
spots. Reduce the amount of bacteria by using toners containing
anti-bacterial agents like alcohol, peroxide and benzalkonium chloride,
and by using creams that contain benzoyl peroxide, which kill bacteria
as well as cause the skin to regenerate faster.
7) Maintain a
routine. Most acne treatments take time to work. It usually takes
between two and eight weeks before you see any significant improvement,
so you are going to have to be patient. Once you've gotten your acne
cleared up, it's important to continue with the treatment that's working
so it does not return.
8) Understand that if all else fails,
contact a doctor. Mild antibiotics that are available only by
prescription can help reduce acne. Keep in mind though, that the
widespread overuse (taking antibiotics when you really don't need them
or for something they don't treat) and misuse (not taking medication for
the specified amount of time) of antibiotics has led to the development
of multiple antibiotic resistant bacteria.
9) Keep hair off of
your face if at all possible. If you want to keep your bangs, then
consider taking showers regularly or keeping your forehead clean with
oil-dabbing cloths / clean tissues / etc.
10) Get some good sleep.
Stress increases your skin's oiliness, which, combined with sweat and
dirt, can clog pores and cause pimples. (Change your pillowcase
frequently.)
