Skin Care for Pimples: 7 Universal Rules That Work

Are you treating your acne but not getting any results? Your beauty routine could be the problem. Here are seven proven tips from board-certified dermatologists to adjust your skin care for pimples and banish blemishes once and for all.

It's easy to overlook, especially when you're out: you touch germ-ridden surfaces and then touch your face, transferring bacteria to your skin. Wash your hands and hair regularly – especially after sweating – to avoid those tiny bumps on your hairline, forehead, and sometimes even your scalp.

Wash your face twice a day with a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser. The worst thing you can do is forget to remove your makeup before going to bed. If you have heavy foundation on, double cleansing is the way. It is essentially cleansing your face twice: first, with an oil-based cleanser, followed by a water-based one.

You can use Eskinol Pimple Relief Micellar Water as your first step. It has 100% botanical water and white tea blossom extract that deep-cleanses without stripping your skin of its natural moisture. This first step is also helpful for removing waterproof makeup and sunscreen.

For oily, acne-prone skin, choose a cleanser that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid for your second cleansing step. POND'S Bright Miracle Ultimate Acne Control Facial Foam also has the Thymo-BHA and vitamin B3+ that reduce impurities, excess oil, and acne-causing bacteria.

Skin care for pimples takes patience. You will start seeing results after one to three months of using the products consistently. Serums and acne treatments typically take three weeks to two months before they take effect, so after choosing a treatment, make sure you stick to it.

Exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun not only increases your risk of skin cancer and age spots but also worsens acne. Always use sunscreen, like POND'S UV Bright Sunscreen, even when it’s cloudy out. Some acne medications can make your skin sensitive and more prone to sun damage. Don’t let your skin care for acne go to waste – go ahead and book that beach trip, but make sure you slather on some SPF.

There’s a common misconception that oily and acne-prone don’t need as much moisture, given the excess oil and sebum produced. “Most acne medications contain effective but drying ingredients, so it is important to keep your skin barrier healthy,” says dermatologist Marie Hayag.

Ingredients in skin care for pimples can trigger a reaction, such as breakouts. Dry skin is irritated skin, so ensure your skin is hydrated and moisturized, regardless of skin type.

Moreover, apply your acne treatments only to affected areas. It might be tempting to smear the ointment or gel all over your face, but this can also irritate your skin. For instance, if your problem areas are your forehead, nose, and chin, apply your spot treatment to these areas only.

Resist the urge to pop, squeeze, or even touch that zit! Bizarre pimple-popper content is abundant online. Seeing a white substance ooze out of someone's pores is gratifying to some. But when you pop your pimples, you’re likely to push pus, dead skin cells, or bacteria deeper inside your skin. It will worsen inflammation and result in more noticeable acne and irreversible scarring.

Some makeup, skin, and hair care products might contain oil and other ingredients that may trigger breakouts. Look for products that are labeled “non-acnegenic,” “non-comedogenic,” or “won’t clog pores.”

Apart from salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, retinoids help with skin clarity by gently exfoliating the skin's surface. Talk to your dermatologist if you’re wondering how to use retinol and if it will suit your needs.

Acne is a common skin issue that can be frustrating and affect self-esteem if left unchecked. Practicing skin care for pimples, sticking to a routine, and making some lifestyle changes with the help of these seven universal rules will end your acne woes, hopefully for good.