How to Get Clear Skin: Acne Treatment and Prevention

Most people think that acne treatment is just for teens. However, acne can happen to anyone at any age. Acne triggers are highly individualized, and as your life changes you may discover that your skin reacts differently to various situations.

If you are battling skin issues and wondering how to get clear skin, realize that you’re not alone. Most people look for tips regarding managing acne at one point or another. No one is completely immune to an acne outbreak, and that is why it’s so important to know how to get rid of acne and how to prevent it.

Acne Triggers and Avoiding Breakouts

The best means for managing acne relate to avoiding breakouts. Sometimes this seems like an impossible task, but if you identify your personal acne triggers, you may be more successful at preventing outbreaks.

Hormones

Hormones are the number one acne trigger. It is increases in hormone levels that lead us to connect adolescence with an acne outbreak. Both boys and girls experience a significant increase in androgens as they enter puberty. These androgens are responsible for increasing the size of pores and for causing the seemingly out-of-control production of oil.

The body may also experience hormonal changes at other times too. Pregnant women experience vast hormonal alterations that may lead to an acne outbreak. Dermatologists can help pregnant women with an acne treatment that is safe and effective.

Stress

Stress is another important acne trigger. Your body produces certain stress hormones when you’re under pressure. These hormones usually increase oil production, which can often signal an acne outbreak.

Acne Treatment Options

Acne can seem like a very stubborn condition. A good acne treatment requires time and consistency, so don’t throw in the towel if you don’t see results overnight.

Cleansers

One of the most important acne prevention measures you can take is to cleanse your skin morning and evening. Be sure not to scrub too hard as this will only irritate the skin. You may even want to skip using a washcloth since these can be too abrasive. Use just your hands, making certain they are clean before you start. Lukewarm water is an important ingredient for managing acne. Make the water too hot and it’s likely to dry out your skin. Water that’s too cold won’t open your pores for a thorough cleansing.

While cleansing is important, it’s just as important not to over clean. Washing your face more than twice a day can leave your skin dry, causing your pores to produce even more oil. Try an astringent toner to get rid of any residual oiliness.

Follow A 3-Step Process

Most dermatologists advise patients to stick to a three step process for managing breakouts. Cleansing with a product that contains salicylic acid is followed by spot treatment with a product that has benzoyl peroxide and a moisturizer, preferably one that has sunscreen. Sun protection helps with acne prevention. Several appropriate products are available on the market today. Look for moisturizers with sunscreen that advertise themselves as oil controlling or oil free to maximize acne prevention.

Also, keep in mind that the less you touch your face the more likely you are to avoid an acne outbreak. Bacteria and oils from your hands can easily be transferred to your face, causing a major problem. Similarly, keep your hair away from your face as its oils can also prove harmful.

Schedule A Consultation With Your Dermatologist

If you’re still troubled by breakouts and wondering how to get clear skin, then it’s time to contact a board-certified dermatologist. Your dermatologist can help you create a skin care routine that’s designed just for your unique skin. Moreover, your doctor can prescribe an acne treatment that helps clear up your skin without causing unnecessary irritation.

Topical Acne Treatments

Your dermatologist may recommend several approaches to managing acne. Topical solutions are a typical acne treatment. Some of these treatments are designed to kill bacteria while others may slow the production of oil. Ingredients in this type of acne treatment include a retinoid, salicylic acid, an antibiotic or benzoyl peroxide. Although products containing these ingredients are available over the counter your dermatologist can prescribe them in stronger and therefore more effective dosages.

Oral Medications for Acne

Dermatologists also prescribe oral medications like antibiotics, birth control pills and isotretinoin as an acne treatment. Occasionally, in office treatments like chemical peels may also be prescribed. These powerful remedies can make a difference when it comes to managing acne.

If you are frustrated and looking for clearer skin, then contact a board-certified dermatologist. They have access to things like a topical acne treatment or laser therapies that can give you the smooth, beautiful skin you’ve been longing for. With the assistance of your dermatologist you’ll be able to formulate a skin care routine that’s ideal for you, and you’ll find out how to get clear skin that is healthy and glowing. You don’t have to accept acne in your life. Ask a dermatologist to help you fight it instead.