Overview

If you are prone to breakouts, you should start a skin care regimen to keep your skin free of blemishes. Using over-the-counter acne treatment products on a regular basis can usually get you free of pimples and blackheads. If you are unable to clear up your skin, make an appointment with a dermatologist. He may recommend a more aggressive treatment option, like laser therapy, topical retinoids or oral antibiotics to get rid of severe acne.

Step 1

Wash your face twice a day. Avoid drying out your skin and irritating the area by frequent washing. When you do cleanse the skin, use lukewarm water and massage the skin gently without scrubbing.

Step 2

Cleanse the face in the morning with a scrub that contains salicylic acid. This active ingredient can exfoliate the skin while unclogging pores by removing dead skin cells and oil.

Step 3

Use a daily moisturizer with built-in sun protection. Choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer with SPF 15 or higher to protect your skin from sun damage.

Step 4

Remove makeup and other skin care products by washing your face again at night. You can use the salicylic acid facial cleanser before bed as well. If you find that using the wash twice a day irritates the skin, switch to a mild oil-free and non-comodogenic wash at bedtime.

Step 5

Apply a night cream that contains benzoyl peroxide. Get rid of acne-causing bacteria and oil with a cream that contains benzoyl peroxide.

Step 6

Prevent breakouts by eliminating dirt and oil on the face. Keep your hair away from your face and avoid touching your skin with your fingers. Clean any cell phones, eyeglasses and sunglasses before putting them onto your skin.