Though commonly thought of as a problem for teenagers, blemishes don’t always disappear when you get older. Adults often have skin problems too. Whatever your age, it’s wise to be careful what you put on your skin since it will be absorbed into your body.

Gentle Washing Is Key.

If you’re prone to acne, scrubbing your face isn’t going to get rid of them. In fact, if you rub your skin too roughly, it’s more likely to stir up more blemishes and aggravate ones you already have. It’s better to clean your face gently.

A gentle washing of your face will help avoid irritation that will make acne worse. The best idea is to not even use a washcloth. Instead, just splash some water on your face, then lather up your hands with the mild cleansing wash or mild soap. 

Once you’ve washed your face, use a clean washcloth to gently pat the water off the skin until it’s dry.

Benzoyl Peroxide Zaps Acne.

After you’re sure your skin is completely dry, then use an over-the-counter medication with benzoyl peroxide. This is by far the best non-prescription medication you can use to control blemishes. Peroxide has been used to cleanse skin a long time, and benzoyl peroxide is also a mild drying agent.

Use 2.5% benzoyl peroxide as it has been shown to be just as effective as 5% or 10%, but much less irritating. It doesn’t make sense to irritate your skin and make acne worse instead of better.

It’s very important to start with a SMALL amount of medication. Since this medication is a drying agent and can cause redness and itchiness, so don’t slather on a bunch right from the beginning. The first time, use just enough medication to very lightly cover your skin the first time, then gradually increase the amount you’re using. Within a couple of weeks you should be giving your skin a good coating of medication.

Be careful to stay away from the tender skin under your eyes. This skin is thinner and more easier irritated that the rest of the skin on your face, and not likely to break-out anyway.

Moisturizer.

Considering benzoyl peroxide dries out your skin, it’s important to apply moisturizer. Once the medicine has soaked in and your skin is completely dry, then lightly apply moisturizer to your face. Wait a while for the moisturizer to dry, and if you skin still appears dry or flaky, add some more.

Be careful to apply the moisturizer even when first beginning to use benzoyl peroxide. This will keep your skin from drying out too much.

Is Diet Important?

Opinions vary in the scientific community as to whether diet has any effect on acne. Too much iodine will aggravate blemishes, so don’t go overboard with the salt shaker if you’re using iodized salt, or eat too many iodine rich foods like clams, crabs or other shellfish.

However, if you notice that your skin tends to break out more after eating certain foods, ditch the scientific theory of the moment, and avoid those foods. So many factors come into play with body chemistry and the effects of foods and other substances on our body, that scientists don’t always have the answer. (How many drugs have been okayed as safe, only to discover later they have bad side effects?)

When You Need Help Fast.

When you have a blemish and need help quick, try one of the following:

  • If you run out of benzoyl peroxide and have a blemish, try using a little calamine lotion. This will absorb the excess oil, and get rid of the blemish.
  • Immediately after washing your face, use an ice cube for 60 seconds on any blemishes. The chill helps reduce the inflammation and make them less noticeable.
  • Do not squeeze! While it may seemingly allow that place to heal more quickly, it will irritate the surrounding skin and may cause more blemishes.
  • Watch what kind of make-up you use. Especially bad for blemish prone skin is any kind of oil based make-up. If you want to wear make-up, use the fragrance-free types that are meant for people with sensitive skin.

Everyone Wants Blemish Free Skin.

Acne is a problem nobody wants, but a good skin care regimen can usually help or totally eradicate it. 

Clear skin is the clear goal.

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