How To Get Rid Of Acne

By Author: Samantha Asher
Total Articles: 18
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Acne is ugly. It's a simply the truth. Acne can ruin relationships and cause self-consciousness. There are many products and programs for people with severe acne, but what if your acne isn't that bad and you can't seem to get rid of it? It can be just as troubling. Just because it isn't as bad doesn't mean it's okay. If you have moderate acne and can't get rid of it, you aren't treating it effectively.

First, you need to make a commitment to the care of your skin. You can't just try a product once and have your acne cured. It's something that is long term that needs a long term solution. If you are a teenager, there's a good chance that your acne will subside as you get older, but you still need to consistently take care of it up until then and change your routine accordingly. This means that you should develop a routine that you stick to every morning and evening. Not every other evening or only in the morning or every once in a while. No! Every day, twice daily!

Start by cleaning your face. You should use a gentle cleanser. The cleanser isn't the acne fighting step. Plus, you only have moderate acne, so you don't ...
... need a cleanser with huge amounts of acids and alcohols. Use something like Neutrogena or Clearasil. The face wash will remove dirt, oil, makeup (if you wear it, of course), and dead skin cells. If it's hard to get your skin really clean, you might want to try using a scrub once and a while to remove dead skin cells.

Next, apply an astringent to your face. It should contain salicylic acid. This will work on getting rid of your acne. It removes any traces of dirt and oil and gives medication to dry up any pimples you have and keeps the oil from coming back. Wipe it on with a cotton swab or pad and let it dry on your skin for a minute or so. Concentrate it especially on areas where the acne is worse.

Now you will need a benzoyl treatment. Try to use a lotion with benzoyl at 2.5 percent. If you have some bigger zits that won't seem to go away, you might want to apply a stronger solution onto only those, maybe 5 % or 10%. Leave a little on the pimple to dry it up completely. Apply the lighter solution to your entire face or affected areas.

Next you need to moisturize. You might avoid this for fear of getting oily skin, but you need moisture. Use an oil free moisturizer that won't clog your pores. Your acne is caused by the clogging of your pores. In the morning, use a light lotion with an SPF of at least 15. In the evening, use a regular cream or night cream that will moisturize all night. Dove is a good choice.

Follow this routine every day and tweak it as necessary. If you want an extra kick against your acne, try a clay or mud mask. Leave it on for about 15 minutes and it will dry up any acne and shrink your pores. You want your pores to be as small as possible. Use as scrub for extra cleansing power.