Acne Treatment Review Blog

If you have acne, you may think you have tried everything. Here is a review of simple steps to treat a breakout of zits.

1. While dermatologists don’t recommend it, sometimes a pimple is so unsightly, it’s hard to leave it alone. If you feel you must pop a pimple, do so only after thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water. Scrub the tops, bottom and sides of your hands as well as between your fingers and under the nails. While you’re washing, hum the happy birthday song. When the song is done, your hands should be clean enough. Dry them with a paper towel or an unused cloth towel.

2. Gently squeeze the pimple with a Q-tip or a tissue. If it pops easily, clean the area well with a cleanser that is safe for oily skin. If the pimple doesn’t pop easily, leave it alone. The pimple will eventually go away on its own.

3. Apply a product such as Clearasil or Stridex by following package directions. These products will heal the top layer of the pimple but they won’t totally heal the acne. Do not overuse these products because they can dry out the skin.

4. To cover the red area, apply an antibacterial concealer. Be sure the concealer does not contain oil and that it matches your skin tone and make-up (if you wear it). Blend it in carefully for a natural look.

5. Try a cleansing mask. These deep clean the face and may help shrink pimples.

6. See a doctor or a dermatologist for recurrent acne. There are prescription medications that may help.

These are the basic steps to follow to treat a pimple. Sometimes all it takes is a reminder to nudge us back into proper skin care.