is a slow process that requires diligence and patience. Here are some tips to help you

get started. You will need A gentle facial cleanser Warm water A towel Topical acne medication

Sunscreen Patience A tissue (optional) (optional) (optional) (optional) Noncomedogenic cosmetics

(optional) (optional) (optional) (optional) Shaving cream with benzoyl peroxide (optional)

(optional) (optional) (optional) A dermatologist (optional) (optional) (optional) (optional)

and prescription acne medicine (optional) (optional) (optional) (optional). Step 1.

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and warm water when you wake up in the morning

and at night just before bed. Don't use harsh scrubs on acne—it will only irritate and

inflame the acne. Step 2. Gently pat your face dry with a towel—don't rub, or you

can extract too much moisture from your face. Be careful not to wash your face too much,

which can irritate your skin. If you have oily skin, try blotting it with a clean tissue

instead. Step 3. Apply a topical acne medication, either one prescribed by your dermatologist

or an over-the-counter cream, lotion, or gel containing benzoyl peroxide and salicylic

acid. Benzoyl peroxide reduces a certain kind of bacteria on the skin and salicylic acid

helps unclog pores by correcting abnormal skin cell shedding, so one might work better

for you than the other. Step 4. Protect your skin with a non-comedogenic sunscreen and

avoid excess exposure to sunlight. This is always important, but it is especially critical

when you're using topical or internal acne medication, which increases skin's photosensitivity.

Step 5. Use only non-comedogenic, water-based cosmetics that are oil-free. There are moisturizers

and makeup formulated for acne-prone skin. Step 6. If you shave, do so carefully and

sparingly. Shaving can easily irritate sensitive skin, so only shave when it is necessary and

only in one direction. Some shaving creams on the market contain benzoyl peroxide, so

check the label. Step 7. Don't squeeze, pop, or pinch acne. It can cause further inflammation

and even permanent scarring. Step 8. Avoid actions that cause repetitive or prolonged

contact with the affected area, like holding a phone against your face, wearing sports

equipment, or resting your chin on your hand. Step 9. Keep your hair clean and out of your

face. The natural oils in hair can contribute to acne, as can hair products that contain

oil. Step 10. If you take proper care of your skin but you still have outbreaks, schedule

an appointment with a dermatologist. There are different types of acne that may require

different approaches in treatment. Step 11. If you're under a dermatologist's care, follow

his or her instructions carefully. If you're prescribed an oral medication, take it regularly.

Step 12. Be patient! Fighting acne is a slow process, and there is no quick fix or immediate

cure. But sooner or later you'll win the battle—and your skin will thank you for it. Did you know

Acne is one of the most common skin afflictions in the U.S., and 95% of those affected first

suffer from it in their teens.