Acne is a common skin condition that affects both teens and adults. Whether it’s a painful cystic breakout or small whiteheads on your cheeks, acne can make anyone feel frustrated and self-conscious. From acne during puberty to adult breakouts, the struggle with skin problems can persist into later years. However, with the right products and skincare routine, you can improve your skin and achieve a clearer complexion.

If you’re battling acne and looking for solutions, read on for five practical skincare tips that can help prevent and treat acne effectively.

1. Always Use Sunscreen

After acne clears up, marks and scars often remain, lingering for weeks or even months. If left untreated, these scars can worsen, especially with prolonged exposure to the sun. UV rays can exacerbate skin discoloration, leading to permanent marks, premature aging, and even an increased risk of skin cancer.

To protect your skin, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days. Look for a formula with SPF 30 or higher, recommended by dermatologists. Choose sunscreen that shields against both UVA and UVB rays for the best protection against damage and skin aging.

2. Choose a Gentle Cleanser

The first step in any skincare routine is cleansing. To effectively remove dirt, excess oil, and impurities, use a gentle cleanser that suits your skin. Avoid harsh scrubs or aggressive washing, as these can irritate your skin and worsen acne.

If you’re dealing with acne, consider using cleansers with active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which help treat mild breakouts. For sensitive or dry skin, opt for non-medicated, gentle cleansers like Cetaphil or Dove’s unscented bar soap. Remember, if you wear makeup or sweat a lot during the day, double-cleansing in the evening will help remove makeup and excess dirt thoroughly.

3. Follow Up with a Toner

Toners help remove any lingering traces of oil, dirt, or makeup after cleansing, leaving your skin refreshed and balanced. However, it’s important to choose a toner that doesn’t dry out or irritate your skin. Avoid toners with astringents that contain alcohol, as they can strip your skin of its natural moisture, making acne worse.

If you have oily skin, consider using a toner with ingredients like witch hazel or salicylic acid, which help to control oil production and prevent breakouts. For dry or sensitive skin, opt for a hydrating toner without alcohol. Applying toner with a cotton pad to your face and neck helps to ensure all impurities are removed.

4. Moisturize Daily

Even if you have oily skin, it’s important to moisturize regularly. Acne treatments can often dry out your skin, causing irritation and peeling, so using a moisturizer will help keep your skin hydrated and balanced.

Look for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer that won’t clog your pores. Gels and lotions tend to be better options for oily skin, while cream-based moisturizers work well for drier skin types. Apply your moisturizer twice daily—once in the morning after cleansing and once before bed to lock in moisture while you sleep.

5. Use Targeted Treatments

For stubborn blemishes and breakouts, spot treatments can provide quick relief. These treatments are typically formulated with concentrated active ingredients, such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or tea tree oil, to treat acne directly at the source.

Choose an invisible gel or treatment that absorbs quickly and can be worn under makeup during the day. Alternatively, you can use acne patches or stickers to treat your spots overnight. These products work by absorbing impurities, preventing bacteria, and reducing inflammation, helping to clear up your acne faster.

Conclusion

While it’s tempting to hope for quick results, acne treatments don’t typically work overnight. It may take several weeks of consistent use to see noticeable improvements in your skin. Following a skincare routine that includes gentle cleansing, moisturizing, sun protection, and targeted treatments can help you manage and prevent acne. Additionally, a visit to a dermatologist can provide personalized recommendations for your skin type and acne needs.