Whether it's a forehead zit right before headshot day or a cluster of whiteheads the morning of a first date, we’ve all been faced with a case of pesky last-minute breakouts.
The following remedies may help to relieve and prevent persistent acne, all from the comfort of your own home.
Treating Face Pimples
Acne is a multifaceted issue, but a main instigator is usually clogged pores. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Caren Campbell, “the body doesn't like this collection of skin cells, oil and bacteria and sends inflammatory cells (white blood cells) to the site, causing painful, pus-filled lesions–cystic acne.”
The following methods have been found to be the most effective in targeting subsequent facial acne:
- Gentle cleansers
- Specialized spot treatments containing tea tree oil, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid
- Skin-safe, at-home alternatives such as aspirin or calamine lotion
- Clay masks
- Acne spot treatments and acne dots
These methods all work to target oil buildup and soothe inflammation caused by acne-promoting bacteria. Learn more about how to safely and properly use at-home alternatives to generic topical acne medications.
Treating Body Pimples
Body acne can be treated in a similar fashion, but requires slightly different treatment methods due to differences in skin chemistry from the face:
- Body wash containing benzoyl peroxide
- Applying adapalene gel to specific lesions
- Changing clothing and sheets
- Using oil-free sunscreens
- Modifying your diet
“Genetics, hormones and diet are likely some of the bigger triggers for [body] acne,” says Dr. Thompson of Banner Health Center. Thus, it is important to not only target the acne at the topical level, but also to take into consideration lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and grooming.
Clean Water
Finding a solution to your breakouts may be as simple as changing the water you use to wash your face. Regular tap water contains hundreds of residual heavy metals and unregulated chemicals that typically go unnoticed. Not only is tap water bad for your body, but it is certainly not good for your skin.
Using filtered water, therefore, is the ideal alternative in everyday cleansing. Studies have shown that the use of filtered water exponentially increases skin moisture and elasticity after consistent use. The Filterbaby PROdermis Water Filter makes filtered water access simple and hassle-free. The filter attaches right to your sink and effectively catches unwanted heavy metals, microplastics, and other common contaminants as small as 0.2 microns.
Prevention
Establishing a routine is key to preventing future acne, even after active breakouts have been treated. Here is a list of general maintenance tips:
- Wash your face consistently
- Apply topical medication daily
- Wash your pillowcases and sheets regularly
- Use oil-free moisturizers and sunscreens
If your acne persists or worsens, a dermatologist is the next best resource. They can prescribe antibiotics and develop a specialized treatment plan for treating your skin.