Don’t wash your face more than twice a day since it may make your acne worse. Steer clear from cleansers or moisturizers containing natural oils because they could get trapped in your skin and lead to acne.
If you get acne on your chest or back, try to wear loose-fitting clothing so the fabric doesn’t rub against your skin as much. Try changing your pillowcase every 2–3 days since oils can build up there as well.
Be sure to clean off any cosmetics you’re wearing at the end of the day since they can trap oil and clog your pores.
If you have naturally oily skin or hair, try to bathe every day using shampoo and soap. If you’re not able to shower right away, try to clean off your face or acne-prone areas with a damp cloth or baby wipe.
For example, 1 slice of bread is usually a 1 oz (28 g) serving. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables don’t have added or refined sugars so they’re less likely to cause acne. [10] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Processed foods usually have higher sugar content and more oils so they can make your skin look greasier and make acne break out. If you want to have a snack, try to have a piece of fruit or an organic granola bar instead of chips or crackers. Chocolate can also make your acne appear worse. [12] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Exercise doesn’t directly control your acne, but it boosts your self-esteem and promotes healthier skin so acne is less likely to develop. You should also shower after working in a greasy area, such as a kitchen with fryer vats, since the oils can stick to your skin and clog your pores. [14] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Talk to your doctor about workout plans that will work best for you.
If you have trouble managing your stress levels, talk to your doctor to see if they can offer any solutions.
Sometimes, the sun can cause acne or irritate blemishes that you already have. Don’t use tanning beds or lights since they can also affect your acne.
You can buy green tea lotion online or from most drugstores. Green tea extract is an antiseptic, which means it helps kill bacteria on your skin that could cause acne.
Buy echinacea extract online or at your local pharmacy. You can also take oral echinacea supplements instead of using the extract topically. Echinacea stops germs that cause inflammation so acne is less likely to form or be as severe.
You can get zinc supplements from your local drugstore. Zinc helps promote wound healing, which affects how quickly your acne clears up. Too much zinc may lead to bloating, diarrhea, or a metallic taste in your mouth.
Bentonite clay contains minerals that help open your pores so you can easily remove dirt and oil.
Hydrogen peroxide dries up oil in your pores and can kill bacteria on your skin. You may get dry skin from using hydrogen peroxide, so use a moisturizer afterwards to keep your skin soft.
Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatories that reduce swelling so your blemishes aren’t as noticeable. If you get skin irritation or itchiness after applying tea tree oil, you may have a slight allergy to it. Stop using the oil and switch to a different treatment option.
Depending on what’s causing your acne, your doctor may recommend a topical medication (such as a retinoid cream) or an oral medication (such as an antibiotic or hormonal birth control pills). [25] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Your doctor may also refer you to a dermatologist if your acne is especially severe or hard to treat.
If you’ve recently started taking a new medication or using a new skincare product, let your doctor know. Your acne may be a reaction to something you’re using. Acne that comes on in adulthood can sometimes be a sign of a hormone imbalance or another medical condition.
Dizziness or lightheadedness Wheezing or difficulty breathing Swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat
