How to Prevent Acne

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Common acne (aka "acne vulgaris") is a skin condition characterized by what are often called pimples or zits. It can occur anywhere on the body and at any age, although it typically affects teenagers on the face and back. Some factors, such as being in puberty, can't be altered, but you can take steps to avoid and prevent acne. Keep yourself healthy and presentable by removing factors that contribute to acne.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Maintaining Hygiene

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  1. Step 1 Wash your face twice a day:
    once at night, and once during your morning routine. When you wash your face, wash it gently and with warm (but not hot) water. The heat will open your pores and make the cleaning process more effective. Make sure your water is not too hot, so you won't burn your skin.
    • Make sure your cleanser is suited for your skin. Select a hypoallergenic or acne-formulated product. A highly perfumed, harsh soap will often make acne worse.
    • In America and some other countries, the following are excellent and usually widely available: Cetaphil, Dove Sensitive, Neutrogena brand cleansers, and Basis. However, there are many "store brands" that may be less expensive and about as good. If you can afford them, higher-end brands like Boscia, Fresh, and Murad are good.
    • Look for a face wash that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid for even more acne-fighting benefits.[1]
  2. Step 2 Use special care in selecting a cleanser if your skin is dry or oily.
    Both extremes need special care.
    • Too much washing is sometimes as bad as not enough. Acne is not caused by dirty skin. Washing once in the morning, once at night, and if the face is very sweaty or to wash off make-up is plenty. Too much washing can irritate acne, actually making it worse.
    • Dry skin can benefit from a face wash or soap that is oil-based or contains a moisturizer.
    • Oily skin does not usually need extra moisturizer in its cleanser. However, be careful not to go extremely drying, either. If your face feels tight after washing, the cleanser may be too harsh.
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  3. Watermark wikiHow to Prevent Acne
    If your hands are oily and/or dirty to begin, you will not get the best results. Wash your hands before you wash your face for best results.
    • Do not wash or scrub too hard. Some people prefer to wash their face with a washcloth but this can potentially irritate your skin more, making it more prone to acne. Gently washing your face with your hands is the best way to go.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Prevent Acne
    Moisturizing your skin is just as important as washing it. When you wash your face, you strip it out of oils and moisture, causing your skin to produce more oil and sebum to compensate for the dryness. Your skin needs moisture. Help it replenish that moisture by moisturizing after each wash.
  5. Step 5 Choose the right moisturizer.
    Depending on your skin type, you may want to choose a different moisturizer. The following are general guidelines, but everyone's skin is different, and you should feel free to experiment and find what works for you:
    • Oily skin: Choose a gel-based moisturizer.[2] Gel-based moisturizers are usually better for oily skin, as they provide essential moisture without overdoing it.
    • Dry skin: Choose a cream-based moisturizer.[2] Cream-based moisturizers are heavier and longer-lasting than gel-based ones. Doctors usually recommend these for skin that needs something a little more heavy-duty.
    • You can also find moisturizers designed specifically for people with acne-prone skin.
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Prevent Acne
    Exfoliate your skin gently twice a day. Exfoliating means gently massaging and wiping off the outer layer of the skin (called the epidermis) in order to help slough off dead skin and unclog pores. See if exfoliating twice a day improves the complexion of your skin. You can buy a commercial exfoliating product, or you can make one on your own.
    • For some people with acne, rough physical exfoliation (e.g., with a scrub) can make the problem worse. Chemical exfoliants can be gentler on the skin, and some of them can be used daily (generally overnight). AHAs are chemical exfoliants that slough off dead skin, while BHAs clean out your pores. You can use one or both.
  7. Watermark wikiHow to Prevent Acne
    Avoid going to sleep with makeup on. If you wear makeup, get into the habit of removing it before you go to bed. Make-up that stays on your face can clog pores, leading to acne. If you wear makeup make sure you get an oil-free foundation of any other makeups If you don't have oil free or can't get some use face powder. Face powder will soak up all the oils from your makeup or face If you know you're prone to leaving makeup on and you don't want to go through the hassle of washing your face, invest in some skin-cleaning wipes that you can use in a pinch.
    • Also be sure to wash off other cosmetics, such as sunscreen.
    • Remember to wash your face after taking your makeup off.
  8. Step 8 Try not to...
    Try not to touch your face with your hands. Your hands are breeding grounds for bacteria because we use them to touch so many things. Touching your face is a big no-no because it cuts down on bacteria transmission. The less bacteria on your face, the lower your chances that you'll develop nasty breakouts.
  9. Step 9 Similarly, avoid sharing daily things and tools with siblings who have acne.
    These include: towels, make-up brushes or kits, hair bands, etc.
  10. Step 10 Wash your pillowcases frequently.
    The oils on your pillowcases can cause acne by spreading dirt, grime, and dead skin. At the least, do it weekly, but you can do it every day if you find this tip makes a big difference. Consider having two pairs of pillowcases that you can switch out at the end of each week so that you avoid doing laundry constantly.
    • Try to avoid detergents with fragrances and dryer sheets. Both can trigger acne for some people.
  11. Watermark wikiHow to Prevent Acne
    How you treat your hair can have a big impact on acne, especially around your forehead. Your scalp releases natural oils to keep your hair lustrous. But too much oil in and around your scalp, while healthy for your hair, can be dangerous for your skin. For this reason, wash your hair at least every other day. Try to strike a good balance between healthy hair and healthy skin.
  12. Watermark wikiHow to Prevent Acne
    Gels, mousses, and sprays can get into the pores of your skin, clog them, and create pimples. Be selective about how much product you put into your hair, especially if you have acne around your forehead.
  13. Step 13 Stay out of direct sunlight.
    Exposure to too much sunlight can be harmful to the skin. You probably already know that it can cause skin cancer, but did you know that it can exacerbate acne?[3] When you go outside or expect to be in the sun for a long period of time, wear some noncomedogenic sunscreen to help block out harmful rays. Noncomedogenic just means that the sunscreen will not clog your pores. Wear a hat, too. Note that many acne topical treatments can make sun damage more likely.
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Quiz

wikiHow Quiz: What Skin Type Do I Have?

Oily, combination, dry, or sensitive—to take the very best care of your face, first you’ve got to know your skin type. Whether it’s acne, flakiness, redness, or oil that’s got you down, we’ll give you all the knowledge you need, and we’ll even recommend our favorite products for your skin type.
1 of 12

Let’s talk about pores. How would you describe yours?

Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Paying Attention to Diet and Exercise

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  1. Step 1 Drink enough water...
    Drink enough water to stay hydrated. Staying hydrated may help you maintain your clear skin. While there is conflicting scientific evidence supporting the claim that water helps clear toxins out of your body, most scientist agree that drinking water is net-beneficial to your skin instead of net-neutral or net-negative.[4] [5] You do not need to necessarily drink eight glasses of water per day, but drink enough to replenish what you might have lost in exercise, and drink when you are thirsty.
  2. Step 2 Eat healthy...
    Eat healthy. Doctors are beginning to understand, after decades of inconclusive evidence, that diet does play a difference in whether you get acne and how severe it is.[5] [6] [7] Eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruits, lean protein, whole wheat and grains, nuts and seeds, and healthy fats (omega-3 fatty acids, for example) should help your body fight acne. At the same time, it will make you healthier and give you more energy. In addition to the foods listed above, try to get enough:
    • Vitamin A. Vitamin helps your body flush out acne-causing proteins and oil from the skin cycle.[5] Take either 10,000 UI of vitamin A supplements, or eat foods that are high in vitamin A, which include fish oil, salmon, carrots, spinach, and broccoli.
    • Zinc. Some evidence suggests that people with acne don't have enough zinc in their systems.[5] Scientists think that zinc creates an inhospitable environment for the acne-causing bacteria. Foods that are high in zinc include: turkey, wheat germ, oysters, pumpkin seeds, and peanuts.[8]
    • Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids promote healthy cell turnover and cut down on inflammation.[5] Examples of omega-3 fatty acids include flax seed, salmon, sunflower seeds, and almonds.
  3. Step 3 Stay away from problem-creating foods and diets.
    Scientists believe that high-glycemic diets — chocolate, French fries, pizza, etc. — are linked to acne vulgaris.[9] [10] In addition to high-glycemic foods, milk might also be a major culprit in causing acne, doctors have found:
  4. Step 4 Milk and other...
    Milk and other dairy products are laden with hormones (testosterone or androgens), which can increase insulin levels, just like sugar and starchy (high-glycemic) foods do.[11] Scientists are now unraveling the very real link between dairy and acne.[12] [13] You don't necessarily have to cut dairy out of your diet, but be careful about overindulging in dairy if you're worried about acne.
  5. Step 5 Stay away from...
    Stay away from excessive alcohol and smoking. These drugs aren't good for your complexion. Studies around the world have linked toxins like tobacco and alcohol to acne.[14] [15] If you are a regular smoker or drinker and worried about acne, consider cutting down on these habits if you're serious about seeing an uptick in overall health.
  6. Step 6 Exercise...
    Exercise to reduce stress and prevent acne. Exercise is really helpful for avoiding acne because it lowers the amount of stress that your body goes through. Unfortunately, stress is a significant cause of acne, both in children and adults.[16] Therefore, any way that you can remove stress from your life is a "win" for clear skin. Exercise is one of those ways.
  7. Step 7 To help cut...
    To help cut down on stress, be sure to sleep enough. Studies have shown that not getting enough sleep can seriously increase the amount of stress a person goes through, sometimes up for 15% more stress for each hour of sleep lost beyond their normal allotment.[17] Shoot to get between 9 and 10 hours if you're younger than 18 and between 7 and 8 hours if you're an adult.[18] Additionally, sleep is when most of the body's healing, including skin repair, takes place.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Using Acne Products

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  1. Step 1 Use benzoyl peroxide.
    [19] Benzoyl peroxide can be used to kill the bacteria that cause acne. Benzoyl peroxide comes in different concentrations, but studies show that benzoyl peroxide with a 2.5% concentration is just as effective as 5-10% solutions while being less irritating to the skin.[20] Additionally, benzoyl peroxide helps peel away layers of dead skin on the epidermis, leaving brighter, more rejuvenated skin in its place. Lastly, benzoyl peroxide should be used selectively, and it's a good idea to put a towel over your pillow to avoid bleaching it, the material should preferably be made out of synthetic fabrics.[21]
  2. Step 2 Use salicylic acid.
    Like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid kills bacteria responsible for pimple growth. It also causes skin cells to shed more rapidly, promoting the growth of new skin. Put small amounts of salicylic acid onto affected areas before you go asleep, after you have washed your face.
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Prevent Acne
    While this is not specifically bottled for acne, it is a very effective home remedy. Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can make the redness and size of pimples less noticeable.[22] In one study, tea tree oil proved to be just as effective as benzoyl peroxide in reducing inflamed lesions of acne patients. Note also that tea tree oil took longer compared to benzoyl peroxide but showed fewer side effects.[23]
    • Because tea tree oil is very strong, dilute it first in a little bit of water before applying to the skin with a Q-Tip or similar instrument. Too much tea tree oil may irritate skin.
  4. Step 4 If things get serious, consult your doctor.
    A dermatologist is trained to spot and treat skin disorders. The doctor may recommend a prescription containing clindamycin phosphate or benzoyl peroxide, both very popular acne deterrents. Prescription strength medicines are often much stronger than solutions you can buy over the counter.
  5. Step 5 Use manuka honey.
    Manuka honey is another natural remedy that many people find very effective for acne, while also being exceptionally gentle on skin compared to most other acne treatments. It has potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps reduce and prevent scarring, and it helps soothe and hydrate the skin, too. You can use it as your face wash (but if you need to wash off makeup, you'll need to use an actual soap or cleanser first), as a mask, and/or as a spot treatment.[24]
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    What's an easy way I can prevent getting acne in the same area?
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
    Mohiba Tareen is a board certified Dermatologist and the founder of Tareen Dermatology located in Roseville, Maplewood and Faribault, Minnesota. Dr. Tareen completed medical school at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where she was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. While a dermatology resident at Columbia University in New York City, she won the Conrad Stritzler award of the New York Dermatologic Society and was published in The New England Journal of Medicine. Dr. Tareen then completed a procedural fellowship which focused on dermatologic surgery, laser, and cosmetic dermatology.
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
    Expert Answer
    The most important thing you can do is showering regularly, especially after you exercise or do strenuous activity that makes you sweat.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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    Not Helpful 1 Helpful 6
  • Question
    Why does my skin break out even when I exfoliate?
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
    Mohiba Tareen is a board certified Dermatologist and the founder of Tareen Dermatology located in Roseville, Maplewood and Faribault, Minnesota. Dr. Tareen completed medical school at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where she was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. While a dermatology resident at Columbia University in New York City, she won the Conrad Stritzler award of the New York Dermatologic Society and was published in The New England Journal of Medicine. Dr. Tareen then completed a procedural fellowship which focused on dermatologic surgery, laser, and cosmetic dermatology.
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
    Expert Answer
    Exfoliating too much can actually damage your skin and make your skin more oily and prone to blemishes. Try exfoliating less throughout the week.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
     Thank you for your feedback.
     If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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    Not Helpful 2 Helpful 6
  • Question
    Can makeup cause acne or irritated skin?
    Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD
    Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD
    Board Certified Dermatologist
    Dr. Margareth Pierre-Louis is a board certified Dermatologist and Dermatopathologist, Physician Entrepreneur, and the Founder of Twin Cities Dermatology Center and Equation Skin Care in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Twin Cities Dermatology Center is a comprehensive dermatology clinic treating patients of all ages through clinical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and telemedicine. Equation Skin Care was created to provide the best in evidence-based, natural skin care products. Dr. Pierre-Louis earned a BS in Biology and an MBA from Duke University, an MD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, completed a residency in dermatology at the University of Minnesota, and completed a dermatopathology fellowship at Washington University in St Louis. Dr. Pierre-Louis is board certified in dermatology, cutaneous surgery, and dermatopathology by the American Boards of Dermatology and Pathology.
    Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD
    Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD
    Board Certified Dermatologist
    Expert Answer
    Most makeups are hypoallergenic. They basically are synthetic molecules that are mixed in with some type of moisturizer base and most of them do not make blemishes worse. If your blemishes are worsened by makeup, then you're wearing the wrong makeup for your skin and you should find one that's not going to be irritating.
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Tips

  • Keep your hair off of your face at all times. Because your hair has oils in it, all it does is cause more acne.
    Thanks
  • Mixing honey and orange or lemon juice and applying it to your skin helps to reduce acne scars and clears out your pores naturally.
    Thanks
  • Eat more green vegetables. They have been tied to preventing breakouts.
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References

  1. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29460655/
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/10-tips-for-preventing-pimples
  3. ↑ https://www.niams.nih.gov/health_info/Acne/acne_ff.asp
  4. ↑ https://www.npr.org/2008/04/03/89323934/five-myths-about-drinking-water
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/acne-care-11/diet-and-skin?page=2
  6. ↑ https://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2013/02/19/172429086/diet-and-acne-for-a-clearer-complexion-cut-the-empty-carbs
  7. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22419445
  8. ↑ https://www.healthaliciousness.com/articles/zinc.php
  9. ↑ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/256664.php
  1. ↑ https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/02/130220084809.htm
  2. ↑ https://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-mark-hyman/do-milk-and-sugar-cause-a_b_822163.html
  3. ↑ https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/worst-foods-for-your-skin?page=2
  4. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19243483
  5. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21595660
  6. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21710106
  7. ↑ https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/acne-care-11/stress-and-acne
  8. ↑ https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/acne-care-11/lifestyle
  9. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/how-many-hours-of-sleep-are-enough/AN01487
  10. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19588642/
  11. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2948929/
  12. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29753055/
  13. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12452873
  14. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2145499
  15. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3609166/
  16. Videos provided by Jennifer Chiu
  17. Wikipedia on acne - More background information about acne vulgaris; what causes it, what's a myth and what's not, and more treatment options.

About This Article

Luba Lee, FNP-BC, MS
Medically reviewed by:
Luba Lee, FNP-BC, MS
Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner
This article was medically reviewed by Luba Lee, FNP-BC, MS. Luba Lee, FNP-BC is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and educator in Tennessee with over a decade of clinical experience. Luba has certifications in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Emergency Medicine, Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Team Building, and Critical Care Nursing. She received her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of Tennessee in 2006. This article has been viewed 2,219,891 times.
22 votes - 89%
Co-authors: 224
Updated: March 19, 2024
Views: 2,219,891
Categories: Featured Articles | Acne
Article SummaryX

To prevent acne, wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser and warm water to remove acne-causing dirt and oils that build up on your skin. If you wear makeup, always remove it at the end of the day, otherwise it may clog your pores and lead to acne. You should also avoid touching your face, as your hands may transfer bacteria to your face that can lead to breakouts. If you’re still having breakouts, spot- treat your acne with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. To learn more from our Medical Review Board co-author, like how to adjust your diet to help get rid of acne, keep reading the article!

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Reader Success Stories

  • Anonymous

    Anonymous

    Jul 1, 2016

    "The tips with daily routine, such as sleeping position and food, really helps me. Thank you."
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