1. KEEP IT CLEAN
Your makeup might hide
zits, but it also traps free radicals against your skin, says Zoe Draelos, a
professor of dermatology at Duke University. Wash your face morning, night, and
after the gym with a cleanser that contains up to 2 percent salicylic acid. We
like Burt's Bees Natural Acne Solutions Purifying
Gel Cleanser for sensitive skin.
2. DON'T POP YOUR ZITS
It's so hard not to, we
know. But try to resist. Popping your pimples will only result in inflammation,
scarring, and yes, more acne. If you're truly tempted, some experts suggest
keeping your hands busy with a squeeze toy.
3. BUT IF YOU DO...
OK, what's done is done.
Now disinfect the area with a 2.5 percent benzoyl peroxide product such as Neutrogena On-the-Spot Acne Treatmentand
dot on a salicylic acid—dermatologist Doris Day recommends Clean & Clear Advantage Popped Pimple Relief
Drying Paste—to help unclog the pore
4. STICK WITH THE BASICS
There are certain
ingredients that have proven themselves in clinical trials (benzoyl peroxide or
glycolic or salicylic acid for acne)—use them. And give them a chance: They
need at least six weeks to work. "If nothing has changed by week six, the
product will never work for you," says David Bank, a professor of
dermatology at Columbia University/New York-Presbyterian Hospital. Then, it's
time to see a dermatologist—prescription products or in-office treatments may
offer some relief.
5. TRY RETINOIDS
Retinoids aren't just
for wrinkles. They also fade spots, build collagen, and prevent acne—but only
when used correctly. At night, instead of your overnight acne treatment, dot a
pea-size amount (we like Sadick Dermatology Group PM Reversal Serum)
on your fingertips and rub it all over your face. "Using them on the skin
as a whole helps with cell turnover," says Heidi A. Waldorf, director of
cosmetic and laser dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City
6. TREAT EARLY
Spot-treating your
pimple can reduce its lifespan by one to two days. But the real goal is a clear
complexion—and early intervention is key. "You need to prevent acne from
forming, and that means treating skin that's prone to pimples even if there are
none present," says dermatologist Karyn Grossman. So use all acne products
over your entire face.
7. BUT DON'T OVERTREAT
Overusing acne products
can lead to excess drying and, in some cases, chemical burns. Apply the amount
recommended on the packaging (usually enough for a thin layer), not a giant
palmful. Finish with an oil-free moisturizer.
8. CALM DOWN
Easier said than done,
we know. But stress hormones increase oil production, which can lead to clogged
pores and whiteheads. So make an effort to relax when needed. "Anything
that reduces stress in your body—tai chi, running, sex, a warm bath—will make
you have less acne, less often," says Richard Fried, a dermatologist and
clinical psychologist in Yardley, Pennsylvania.
9. PROTECT YOUR SKIN
Acne products can make
your skin more susceptible to sun damage, so be sure to use SPF 30 or higher.
Look for formulas labeled noncomedogenic, which won't clog pores. We love Coppertone Oil Free Faces Sunscreen Lotion SPF
30.
10. FADE SCARS
Just because the
pimple's gone doesn't mean it disappeared. Use a scar treatment with salicylic
acid and licorice-root extract, likeClearasil Ultra Acne + Marks Spot Lotion,
on dark spots to fade them over time.
0 comments:
Post a Comment