How to get rid of acne : 7 Proven Ways to Clear Your Skin of Acne

How to get rid of acne, Dealing with acne can be frustrating and undermine self-confidence. But rest assured – with the right skincare routine, treatments, and lifestyle habits, you can get blemish-free skin. This comprehensive guide will arm you with in-depth knowledge to successfully manage and clear up acne.

How to get rid of acne : 7 Proven Ways to Clear Your Skin of Acne

We’ll cover:

Understanding different types of acne
Implementing daily skincare basics
Using home remedies to target breakouts
Choosing over-the-counter treatments
Getting prescription medications for severe cases
Adjusting your diet and lifestyle
Preventing acne scarring

Follow these tips to craft a tailored regimen that reduces current breakouts and keeps clear skin for good. Let’s get started!

What Is Acne and What Causes It?

Acne occurs when dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria clog hair follicles on the skin. This leads to different types of pimples and blemishes.

Several factors can trigger acne:

Hormonal Changes – Fluctuating hormones during puberty, menstrual cycles, or pregnancy can increase oil production and clogged pores.
Genetics – You may be predisposed to acne if parents had it.
Stress – Stress hormones raise oil levels, exacerbating acne.
Medications – Certain medications like corticosteroids and testosterone can worsen acne.
Greasy Cosmetics – Oil-based makeup and hair products can clog pores.
Diet – High glycemic foods like refined carbs may impact acne.

How to get rid of acne, Knowing the common acne causes helps you pinpoint triggers to control breakouts. Now let’s learn about different acne types.

1. How to get rid of acne : Identifying Different Types of Acne

How to get rid of acne, There are various types of acne and blemishes:

Whiteheads

Whiteheads occur when dead skin and oils plug a hair follicle beneath the skin’s surface. The clogged pore remains closed creating a white bump.

Blackheads

Blackheads also start from blocked follicles. But instead of closing up, the clog is open to the air and oxidizes, creating a dark appearance.

Papules

Papules form when clogged follicles rupture beneath the skin. They look like small, solid pink or red bumps.

Pustules

These are inflamed pimples containing visible pus. The sore red base filled with white or yellow pus signifies a bacterial infection.

Nodules

Nodules are large, painful, solid lumps lodged deep within the skin. They develop from deep clogged pores.

Cystic Acne

Cysts are severe, pus-filled lesions that feel like large, sore nodules under the skin. This painful cystic acne is prone to scarring.

How to get rid of acne, Recognizing your specific type of acne will determine the most effective treatment approach. Let’s start with some essential daily skincare habits.

2. How to get rid of acne : Practicing a Consistent Skincare Routine

An effective acne skincare routine clears pore-clogging oil and dead skin to stop new breakouts and heal existing ones. Aim for consistency – skimping on your regimen often backslides progress.

Follow these skincare steps twice daily:

1. Cleanse

Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser with ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Massage it into skin with fingers, not scrubbing harshly. Rinse thoroughly.

2. Tone

After cleansing, apply an alcohol-free toner with pore-tightening ingredients like witch hazel or glycolic acid. Sweep over skin with a cotton pad.

3. Spot Treat

Dab benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or tea tree oil directly onto any pimples to kill bacteria. Take care to avoid irritation.

4. Moisturize

Finish with an oil-free, non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) moisturizer suitable for acne-prone skin. Hyaluronic acid and aloe vera are great soothing ingredients.

5. SPF

Apply oil-free SPF 30 sunscreen in the mornings. Sun protection prevents dark marks from acne scars.

How to get rid of acne, Tailor products to your skin type. Stick to a consistent routine to maintain acne-free skin for the long term.

3. How to get rid of acne : Using Targeted Home Remedies

How to get rid of acne, In addition to daily skincare, home remedies containing acne-fighting ingredients can effectively combat active breakouts:

Tea Tree Oil

A powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. Use diluted to spot treat pimples.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Contains acids that exfoliate and inhibit bacteria growth. Use diluted as a toner.

Honey

Has antibacterial properties that fight acne bacteria. Apply as a 15-minute face mask.

Aloe Vera

Soothes inflammation and heals the skin. Apply gel from the leaf to pimples.

Green Tea

The antioxidants reduce excess sebum production. Use cooled steeped tea as a toner.

Baking Soda

Gently exfoliates and unclogs pores. Make a paste with water to use as a 2-minute face mask.

Oatmeal

Calms irritation from acne. Blend a mask with water, applying for 15-20 minutes.

How to get rid of acne, Use home remedies 1-2 times per week between regular skincare. They offer cost-effective acne healing!

4. How to get rid of acne : Choosing the Right Over-the-Counter Acne Products

How to get rid of acne, When home care isn’t cutting it, another option is over-the-counter (OTC) acne treatments containing proven active ingredients:

Benzoyl Peroxide

Kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation. Found in cleansers, creams and gels. Start with lower 2.5% strength to avoid dryness.

Salicylic Acid

Unclogs pores by exfoliating away dead skin cells. Look for in cleansers, pads, gels and serums. 0.5-2% concentration is ideal.

Sulfur

Dries up excess sebum production in pores to clear acne. Found in masks, bars, and spot treatments.

Retinoids

Vitamin A-derivatives that speed up skin cell turnover and prevent clogged follicles. See in gels and creams like adapalene and tretinoin.

Nicotinamide

Form of vitamin B3 that reduces inflammation, repairs skin, and regulates oil and keratin production. Found in serums and moisturizers.

How to get rid of acne, Shop for acne-specific drugstore products tailored to your needs. Consistently use them along with your skincare routine.

5. How to get rid of acne : Getting Prescription Medications for Severe Acne

How to get rid of acne, For moderate to severe acne not responding to OTC options, make an appointment with a dermatologist. They can prescribe stronger medications:

Oral Antibiotics

Oral antibiotics like doxycycline, minocycline and erythromycin work from inside to combat acne inflammation and bacteria.

Topical Retinoids

Prescription retinoids like tretinoin and tazarotene are stronger vitamin A formulations to prevent clogged pores and reduce scarring.

Dapsone Gel

Dapsone antibacterial gel reduces acne inflammation and unclogs pores.

Birth Control Pills

Oral contraceptives for women can improve acne by regulating hormones and decreasing oil production.

Isotretinoin

The powerful acne drug isotretinoin (Absorica, Claravis) greatly reduces oil production, but has potential side effects. It is prescribed as a last resort treatment for severe, scarring acne.

How to get rid of acne, While pricier, prescription-strength solutions can successfully clear up stubborn, treatment-resistant cystic acne.

6. How to get rid of acne : How Diet Impacts Your Skin

While not definitively proven, some studies suggest certain foods may trigger or worsen acne:

High-Glycemic Foods

Foods with a high glycemic index like processed grains, sugary cereals, and sodas raise blood sugar fast. This spikes insulin, which increases oil production and inflammation.

Dairy Products

Some emerging research indicates milk and whey protein may aggravate acne. Try eliminating dairy for 6-8 weeks to see if skin improves.

Unhealthy Fats

Foods high in unhealthy trans and saturated fats like fast food may promote acne. Stick to plant-based fats like nuts and avocado.

Chocolate

The cocoa or milk in chocolate bars theoretically may trigger breakouts in some people due to hormones or excess oil.

How to get rid of acne, Aim for a balanced acne diet high in lean proteins, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Stay hydrated with water over sugary drinks. See if eliminating potential acne foods helps.

7. How to get rid of acne : Important Lifestyle Adjustments

How to get rid of acne, In addition to diet, certain lifestyle habits impact acne:

Stress Management

Chronic stress elevates hormones that increase oil production. Make time for relaxation through yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.

Exercise

Working out and sweating helps cleanse pores. Just remember to shower after and avoid oil-based sports supplements.

Sleep

Aim for 7-9 hours of consistent sleep, going to bed and waking the same time daily. Poor sleep worsens stress and inflammation.

Hygiene

Change bed sheets, towels and pillowcases 1-2 times weekly to avoid re-exposure to bacteria. Never pick at pimples – this worsens scarring!

Hair and Skin Products

Avoid oil-based makeup, lotions, and hair styling products that clog pores and flare acne. Look for non-comedogenic, non-acnegenic labels.

How to get rid of acne, Adjusting lifestyle factors reduces acne triggers and helps treatments work better.

Preventing and Treating Acne Scars

To avoid permanent scarring, don’t pick or pop pimples. Treatments that flatten and fade scars include:

Over-the-counter fade creams with ingredients like glycolic acid or hydroquinone
In-office procedures like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, microneedling, and laser treatments
Prescription retinoids to increase collagen and smooth scars
Injectable fillers for depressed scars

How to get rid of acne, See a dermatologist early to minimize scarring. With diligent care, you can achieve clear, healthy skin.

Fighting Hormonal Acne

Hormonal fluctuations related to puberty, periods, and pregnancy commonly cause breakouts. Manage hormonal acne through:

Oral Contraceptives

Birth control pills that contain both estrogen and progesterone can improve acne by regulating hormones.

Spironolactone

This oral medication blocks androgens like testosterone that overstimulate oil glands. It’s prescribed off-label for hormonal acne.

Supplements

Ask your dermatologist about supplements that balance hormones like evening primrose oil or chasteberry extract.

Stress Reduction

Manage stress through yoga, meditation, and self-care which decreases breakout-promoting stress hormones.

Clean Skincare

Avoid oil-based products that disrupt hormonal balance. Opt for ingredients that reduce inflammation.

No Touching!

Picking leads to more inflammation and lasting marks. Hands off blemishes!

How to get rid of acne, By managing fluctuations and keeping skin calm, you can overcome cycle-related breakouts.

Best DIY Natural Masks for Acne

Whip up masks using everyday ingredients that fight acne:

Yogurt & Oatmeal:

The lactic acid in yogurt gently exfoliates while oatmeal soothes irritation.

Honey & Cinnamon:

Honey hydrates skin while antimicrobial cinnamon kills acne-causing bacteria.

Apple Cider Vinegar:

ACV contains antibacterial acids that balance skin’s pH levels.

Green Tea & Clay:

Soothing green tea combines with cleansing bentonite clay to reduce oil and inflammation.

Turmeric & Honey:

Antibacterial turmeric mixed with hydrating raw honey reduces swelling.

Aloe Vera:

The cooling aloe vera plant gel reduces redness and heals acne sores.

How to get rid of acne, Make masks using a 2:1 ratio of the ingredients. Apply for 10-15 minutes 1-2 times per week between regular acne care for clearer skin.

Best Over-the-Counter Acne Brands

Look for proven acne-fighting ingredients in these top OTC brands:

CeraVe

Affordable cleansers and moisturizers with pore-clearing salicylic acid and hydrating ceramides.

Clean & Clear

Well-known drugstore brand with dual-action acne solutions containing benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid.

Differin

The first OTC retinoid (adapalene) which speeds up cell turnover and prevents new breakouts without prescription.

La Roche-Posay

Dermatologist-recommended benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid treatments for acne-prone sensitive skin.

Neutrogena

Wide selection of acne face washes, spot treatments, masks, and moisturizers with proven acne-fighting ingredients.

PanOxyl

Maximum-strength benzoyl peroxide acne creams, washes, and wipes to kill bacteria.

How to get rid of acne, Consult with dermatologists to determine which OTC brands work best for your unique acne situation.

Acne-Clearing Lifestyle Adjustments

In addition to skincare, make these lifestyle changes:

Exercise daily to lower stress hormones and increase circulation.
Stay hydrated by drinking 8 glasses of water to flush out toxins.
Get 7-9 hours of sleep to balance hormones.
Reduce touching your face to minimize transferring dirt and bacteria.
Frequently wash hair, hats, headbands to prevent pore-clogging buildup.
Manage period-related breakouts by being extra diligent about care before periods. Consider oral contraceptives.
Take relaxing bubble baths to soak away stress.
See an endocrinologist if you suspect hormonal imbalances.

How to get rid of acne, A holistic approach that reduces triggers leads to lasting clear skin.

Supplements and Vitamins for Acne

Discuss adding these acne-fighting supplements:

Zinc: Mineral that reduces inflammation and fights acne-causing bacteria.

Omega-3s: Reduces overall inflammation. Safe options are fish or algal oil.

Vitamin A: Retinoid supplements like isotretinoin (without prescription) and beta carotene help control oil.

Vitamin D: Low vitamin D is linked to acne. Get more through safe sun exposure and foods.

Vitamin E: Powerful antioxidant that protects skin from damage and promotes healing.

Chromium: May help balance blood sugar if acne is linked to insulin resistance.

Probiotics: Support healthy gut bacteria which reduces skin inflammation.

How to get rid of acne, Always check with your doctor before starting supplements. Combined with skincare, they provide internal and external acne defense.

When to See a Dermatologist for Acne

Consult a dermatologist for prescription treatments if:

Over-the-counter options haven’t improved acne after 2 months
You experience painful cysts or nodules
Acne is leaving scars or dark marks
You have acne around the jawline, neck or back
Acne flares before your period
You have other unexplained symptoms like hair loss or irregular periods
Acne causes emotional distress or impacts your self-esteem

Dermatologists have the knowledge and tools to clear up stubborn acne once and for all. Don’t hesitate to make an appointment!

How to get rid of acne, With this complete guide, you now have a wealth of expertise to understand the root causes of your acne and create a tailored treatment plan. Stay consistent, be patient through potential purges, and keep smiling through the process – healthy, glowing skin awaits!

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Putting It All Together for Success

Effectively managing acne requires diligently following a multifaceted routine such as:

Morning: Gentle cleanser, toner, spot treatment, moisturizer, SPF
Evening: Makeup remover, cleanser, treatment serum, moisturizer
1-2x Weekly: Exfoliating scrub or mask
Daily: Low-glycemic diet, exercise, 8+ hours sleep, hydration
Monthly: Change pillowcases and wash makeup brushes
Every 6-8 Weeks: Dermatologist visit to assess treatment progress

How to get rid of acne, With consistent care, you can finally achieve your acne-free skin goals!

Frequently Asked Acne Questions

Does popping pimples make acne worse?

Yes! Picking and popping lead to more inflammation and potential scarring. Leave pimples alone aside from applying spot treatments.

How long does it take acne treatments to work?

Results vary, but expect 6-8 weeks to fully see effects from over-the-counter options. Prescription medications may show faster improvement in 4-6 weeks. Stick with it!

Can wearing makeup cause acne?

Oil-based, heavy makeup can clog pores. Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic makeup and wash it off fully every night. Disinfect makeup brushes regularly too.

Does sun help acne?

While some think tanning dries up acne, sunlight exposure makes post-acne marks and scars darker. Use oil-free SPF 30 sunscreen to prevent this.

Can you get rid of cystic acne naturally?

Severe cystic acne is unlikely to fully clear with natural methods alone. See a dermatologist for prescription drugs like isotretinoin to reduce painful cysts and scarring risk.

Don’t lose hope – with the right combination of treatments tailored to your unique acne, you can achieve clear, smooth skin! Arm yourself with the knowledge in this guide to get the results you want.

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