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Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States.
You can reduce acne by following these skin care tips from dermatologists.
Wash acne-prone skin twice a day and after sweating.
Perspiration, especially when wearing a hat or helmet,
can make acne worse, so wash your skin as soon as possible after sweating.
Use your fingertips to apply a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser.
Using a washcloth, mesh sponge, or anything else can irritate the skin.
Use gentle products, such as those that are alcohol-free.
Do not use products that irritate your skin, which may include
astringents, toners and exfoliants.
Dry, red skin makes acne appear worse.
Avoid the temptation to scrub your skin.
Scrubbing irritates the skin and also can make acne worse.
Rinse with lukewarm water.
Shampoo regularly. If you have oily hair, shampoo daily.
Let your skin heal naturally.
If you pick, pop, or squeeze your acne, your skin
will take longer to clear and you increase your risk of getting acne scars.
Touching your skin throughout the day can cause flare-ups.
Tanning damages your skin.
Some acne medications make the skin very sensitive to
ultraviolet (UV) light, which you get from both the
sun and indoor tanning devices.
Using tanning beds increases your risk for melanoma,
the deadliest form of skin cancer by 75%.
Consult a dermatologist if:
Your acne makes you shy or embarrassed.
None of the over-the-counter products you’ve tried has worked.
Your acne is beginning to leave scars or darken your skin.
Today, virtually every case of acne can be successfully treated.
Not only can dermatologists help treat existing acne,
they can also help prevent new breakouts and
reduce your chance of developing scars.
If you have questions or concerns about caring for your skin,
you should make an appointment to see a dermatologist.
To find a dermatologist in your area, visit aad.org.