Key Points
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There are many reasons why acne and other blemishes appear on the skin.
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There are great tips for a skincare routine that will give you clear skin.
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Skin treatments can also help the skin clear up from acne, rashes, redness, and other types of irritation.
Radiant, clear skin is a canvas that reflects the beauty within. It boosts self-esteem and confidence and is often viewed as a sign of youth and vitality.
People strive for clear skin, but it can sometimes be challenging to achieve. While genetics play a significant role in the condition of your skin, several other factors impact its appearance. Keep reading to explore some common causes of problematic skin and discover some simple tips for achieving clear, healthy skin.
By following these tips and incorporating the right products into your routine, you will unveil the canvas of clear, healthy skin and let your inner beauty shine.
What Causes Skin To Break Out?
Breakouts are a frustrating and embarrassing part of life, but they don’t have to be. By understanding the root causes of pesky blemishes, you can take control of your skin and achieve the clear, radiant complexion you desire. From hormonal changes and medications to unhealthy skincare habits and diet, several factors can contribute to breakouts.
Hormonal Changes
While hormonal changes are a normal part of the human life cycle, they are a frustrating and uncomfortable experience for many people. Hormonal changes — such as those that occur during puberty or pregnancy — cause the sebaceous glands to produce excess oil. This extra oil clogs pores and leads to the development of breakouts such as acne. In addition, hormonal changes can also cause the skin to become more sensitive making it more susceptible to irritation and breakouts.
Medication
Certain medications cause the skin to break out as a side effect. For example, medicines that contain androgen hormones such as testosterone and steroids cause the sebaceous glands to produce excess oil, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. Other medications such as lithium and anti-seizure medications cause the skin to break out, as well.
Unhealthy Skincare Habits
Unhealthy skin care habits contribute to the development of breakouts. For example, not washing the face regularly causes dirt, oil, and other impurities to build up on the skin leading to clogged pores and breakouts.
Using harsh, drying cleansers also strips the skin of its natural oils causing it to produce even more oil to compensate. This leads to even more clogged pores and breakouts. In addition, using harsh exfoliants or scrubbing the skin too aggressively causes irritation and breakouts. It is crucial to develop a healthy skincare routine and use gentle, non-irritating products to help prevent breakouts.
Poor Diet
While the relationship between diet and acne is not entirely clear, some studies have suggested that certain dietary factors affect the likelihood of developing breakouts. For example, diets high in processed and refined foods such as white bread and sugary snacks increase the risk of developing acne.
While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between diet and acne, following a healthy, balanced diet is generally good for overall health including skin health. In contrast, diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help protect the skin and reduce the risk of breakouts. Additionally, drinking plenty of water helps to keep the skin stay hydrated and healthy which may also help to prevent breakouts.
Tips for Clear Skin
Having clean, healthy skin is a goal for many people, but it can be challenging to achieve. Luckily, there are some simple tips and tricks to use to keep your skin clean and healthy.
Keep Your Skin Clean
Wash your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities.
Avoid Harsh Cleansers
Avoid using harsh, drying cleansers which strip the skin of its natural oils and cause it to produce more oil to compensate.
Moisturize and Protect From UV Rays
Use non-comedogenic moisturizers and sunscreen to keep the skin hydrated and protected from harmful sun rays.
Don’t Touch Your Face
Avoid touching your face as this transfers bacteria and oil from your hands to your skin leading to breakouts.
Stop Picking at Your Blemishes
Avoid picking at or popping pimples as this causes irritation and infection.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Eat a healthy, balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid foods high in processed and refined sugars as these contribute to breakouts.
Move Your Body
Exercise regularly to promote good circulation and healthy skin.
Sleep
Get plenty of good sleep to allow your body to rest and repair itself.
Up Your Skincare Routine
If your skin is struggling, consider improving your skincare routine. Practicing a balanced skincare routine helps you achieve healthy, clear skin.
Using Gentle Cleansers When You Wake Up
In the morning, wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt and oil that accumulated on your skin overnight. Using a gentle cleanser in the morning helps prevent clogged pores and breakouts and improves the overall health and appearance of the skin.
Gentle cleansers refresh and revitalize the skin leaving it feeling clean and invigorated. This helps to prepare the skin for the rest of your skincare routine and the day ahead.
Using a gentle cleanser in the morning also helps to remove any lingering traces of your nighttime skincare products such as moisturizers and treatments. Cleansers work to prevent irritation and other skin concerns.
“You want to use gentle, hydrating cleansers that remove impurities without stripping the skin barrier of all its natural moisturizing factors,” Washington, D.C.-based dermatologist Adam Friedman, MD, explains what to look for in a cleanser if you have finicky skin. “Go for cleansers with humectants, which help keep water in the skin, and prebiotics, as they help contribute to a healthy microbiome.”
When choosing a gentle cleanser, it is essential to look for products free from potential irritants such as fragrances and dyes. Additionally, consider your skin type and any concerns such as acne or sensitivity. By choosing a gentle, non-irritating cleanser, you will keep your skin clean and healthy without causing irritation or drying out your skin.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
This mild, non-irritating cleanser is suitable for all skin types and is gentle enough to use on sensitive skin.
Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser
This hypoallergenic cleanser is free from fragrances, dyes, and other potential irritants making it a good choice for sensitive skin.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
This gentle, soap-free cleanser is formulated with a combination of prebiotic and thermal spring water to help soothe and calm the skin.
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
This non-foaming cleanser is designed to help retain the skin’s natural moisture barrier and is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin.
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
This gentle micellar water is suitable for all skin types and removes makeup, dirt, and oil without drying out the skin.
Moisturize
Apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and protected throughout the day.
Moisturizing in the morning and throughout the day is good for your skin for several reasons. It keeps the skin hydrated and prevents it from drying out. Keeping the skin moisturized is especially important during the colder months when the air is drier and strips moisture from the skin.
Moisturizing during the day creates a barrier on the skin that protects it from environmental pollutants and other irritants that you may be exposed to during the day. This works to prevent irritation and other skin concerns.
Moisturizing also improves the overall texture and appearance of the skin giving it a more youthful and radiant appearance. It’s an essential part of any skincare routine that helps maintain the skin’s health and appearance.
By choosing a moisturizer tailored to your skin’s needs, you keep your skin hydrated and healthy without causing breakouts. When choosing a moisturizer for clear skin, it is vital to look for non-comedogenic products that will not clog pores. Additionally, consider your skin type and any specific concerns such as sensitivity or oiliness.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
This lightweight, oil-free moisturizer is formulated with hyaluronic acid to help hydrate the skin without leaving a greasy residue.
Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer
This non-greasy moisturizer is suitable for all skin types and is gentle enough to use on sensitive skin.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
This oil-free moisturizer is formulated with prebiotic and ceramide technology to nourish and protect the skin.
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
This lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer is designed to restore the skin’s natural barrier and is suitable for all skin types.
Dermalogica Calm Water Gel
This oil-free, gel-cream moisturizer is designed to hydrate and soothe the skin, making it a good choice for sensitive or oily skin.
Regularly Use Sunscreen
Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. When choosing sunscreen for clear skin, look for non-comedogenic products that will not clog pores. Using effective sunscreen protects your skin from sun damage and prevents breakouts.
Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen
This oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreen is designed to provide broad-spectrum protection without causing breakouts.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen
This lightweight, oil-free sunscreen is formulated with a blend of ingredients to protect the skin from the sun and prevent breakouts.
Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer with Sunscreen SPF 50
This non-greasy moisturizer contains sunscreen to protect the skin from harmful sun rays. It is suitable for all skin types and is gentle enough to use on sensitive skin.
EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen SPF 46
This oil-free sunscreen is formulated with niacinamide to calm and soothe the skin making it a good choice for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
This invisible, weightless sunscreen is formulated with antioxidants and natural plant oils to protect the skin from the sun and prevent breakouts.
Cleanse Your Skin Before Bed
In the evening, rewash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, and makeup that accumulated on your skin throughout the day. This prevents clogged pores and breakouts and will improve the skin’s overall health and appearance.
Cleansing the skin before bed removes any makeup, sunscreen, and other products that may be lingering on the skin. Leaving these products on the skin overnight leads to irritation and other skin concerns.
Gently cleansing the skin before bed creates a clean and healthy environment for the skin to repair and regenerate itself while you sleep. It’s an essential part of any skincare routine and maintains the health and appearance of the skin.
Use a Toner
Use a toner to help remove any remaining impurities and balance your skin’s pH. When choosing a toner for clear skin, consider your skin type and any specific concerns such as sensitivity or oily skin.
Look for toners that are free from alcohol and other potential irritants and choose products that are tailored to your skin’s needs. Using a good toner refreshes and balances the skin leaving it looking healthy and radiant.
Thayers Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner
This alcohol-free toner is formulated with rose water and witch hazel to soothe and calm the skin making it a good choice for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% by The Ordinary
This toner is formulated with niacinamide and zinc to reduce the appearance of pores, improve the texture of the skin, and reduce inflammation.
Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal Extract Alcohol-Free Toner
This alcohol-free toner is formulated with calendula and other botanical extracts to soothe and refresh the skin.
Herbivore Rose Hibiscus Coconut Water Hydrating Face Mist
This facial mist is formulated with rose and hibiscus to tone and hydrate the skin making it a good choice for dry or sensitive skin.
Caudalie Beauty Elixir
This toning mist is formulated with grape, mint, and rosemary to tighten the pores and refresh the skin. It is suitable for all skin types and can be used throughout the day to refresh and revive the skin.
Moisturize One Last Time Before Going To Sleep
Finish with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and nourished while you sleep.
The skin naturally repairs and regenerates itself while you sleep, so applying a moisturizer at night supports this process. Moisturizing before bed locks in hydration and prevents the skin from drying overnight. Doing so is especially important during the colder months when the air is drier and strips moisture from the skin.
Moisturizing at night supports the skin’s natural repair and regeneration process, prevents dryness, and protects it from external stressors.
Treatments for Clear Skin
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for clear skin, there are several treatments available that improve the skin’s appearance and reduce the likelihood of breakouts.
Retinoids
One popular treatment for clear skin is retinoids, which are vitamin A derivatives commonly used to treat acne and other skin conditions. Retinoids work by increasing cell turnover rate which helps to unclog pores and prevent the formation of new acne lesions. They are available in various strengths and can be prescribed by a doctor or obtained over the counter in lower potencies.
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil is a skincare product formulated with retinol and has a reputation for improving the skin’s appearance. This product is specifically designed to be gentle on the skin, making it a good option for those with acne-prone skin. Retinol improves the appearance of acne scars, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improves the skin’s overall texture.
This product is fast-absorbing, making it easy to incorporate into your skincare routine. Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil is a good option for those with acne-prone skin who are looking for a product that improves their skin’s appearance.
Skinceuticals Retinol 0.5 Refining Night Cream
Skinceuticals Retinol 0.5 Refining Night Cream is a skincare product that is specifically formulated for those with acne-prone skin.
This product is designed to be gentle on the skin making it less likely to cause irritation which is a common problem for those with acne and other blemishes. Skinceuticals Retinol 0.5 Refining Night Cream is meant to be used at night when the skin is in repair mode making it a good option for those looking to improve the appearance of their skin while they sleep.
RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream
RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream is a skincare product that is specifically designed to be gentle on sensitive skin making it a good option for those struggling with acne and other skin issues. This product is non-greasy and fast-absorbing, making it easy to incorporate into your skincare routine.
Vichy LiftActiv Retinol HA Concentrate
This product is formulated with hyaluronic acid — a humectant that hydrates the skin making it less dry and less likely to experience irritation. This product is also known to help improve the appearance of acne scars, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve the overall texture of the skin.
The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% In Squalane
This retinol is formulated with squalane, an emollient that hydrates the skin and improves its overall appearance.
Squalane is a natural substance found in the skin and is used in skincare products because it has many beneficial properties. It is non-greasy and lightweight making it easy to incorporate into a skincare routine. It is also an excellent moisturizer helping to keep the skin hydrated and healthy.
Squalane has antioxidant properties which means it protects the skin from damage caused by free radicals. It is particularly beneficial for those with acne-prone skin, as acne is often associated with oxidative stress.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Another common treatment for clear skin is the use of benzoyl peroxide which is a topical medication that is applied directly to the skin. Benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria that causes acne, reduces inflammation, and unclogs pores. It is available in various strengths and is found in many over-the-counter acne treatments.
Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Face Wash
This skincare product is specifically designed to treat acne. This face wash contains several active ingredients that are known to be effective at treating acne such as salicylic acid which is a type of beta hydroxy acid (BHA) commonly used in acne treatments. BHAs penetrate pores and help break down the buildup of dead skin cells and oil that lead to acne.
The Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Face Wash also contains glycerin, a humectant that keeps the skin hydrated and healthy. This product is a good option for those looking to treat their acne.
Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10 Acne Medication
This acne medication contains 10% benzoyl peroxide to help kill the bacteria that cause acne. Benzoyl peroxide is also able to reduce the buildup of dead skin cells and oil that clogs pores and leads to breakouts. This acne medication is formulated to be fast-acting, so it quickly clears up existing breakouts and prevents new ones from forming.
Oxy Maximum Action Rapid Response Spot Treatment
This fast-acting formula is designed to quickly reduce the size and redness of pimples, helping to clear up your skin. Its main ingredient is benzoyl peroxide which aids in killing the bacteria that cause acne.
The Oxy Maximum Action Rapid Response Spot Treatment removes excess oil from the skin. This product is applied directly to the affected areas and is recommended to use as part of your daily skincare routine for best results.
Murad Acne Complex Clarifying Cleanser
This clarifying cleanser contains salicylic acid — which helps to unclog pores and remove excess oil — and glycolic acid which helps to exfoliate the skin and promote cell turnover.
It is also formulated with green tea extract which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that soothe and protect the skin. The Murad Acne Complex Clarifying Cleanser is likely to reduce acne breakouts and improve the skin’s appearance.
Facials
Facials are beneficial for the skin for many reasons. Facials cleanse the skin by removing dirt, oil, and other impurities that clog pores and lead to breakouts. They also help exfoliate the skin by removing dead skin cells that dull the complexion and make the skin look less radiant.
Facials often include the application of masks and other skin treatments that hydrate the skin and improve its overall appearance. Facials are also relaxing and reduce stress which has a positive effect on the skin and overall mental health. Regular facials can help to improve the appearance of the skin making it look clearer and more radiant.
From facials that tackle breakouts and other forms of acne to facials that diminish scarring or discoloration left over from blemishes, here are the most popular facials to help acne-prone skin:
Classic Facial
A classic facial is a type of facial treatment designed to cleanse, exfoliate, and nourish the skin. This facial is recommended for people with acne-prone skin as it helps unclog pores and removes excess oil.
Classic facials offer a deep cleansing, extractions of whiteheads and blackheads, a head and neck massage, and relaxation. You usually emerge from a classic facial looking and feeling rested and refreshed.
During a classic facial, a professional aesthetician cleanses the skin to remove any dirt, oil, and makeup. This is typically done using a gentle cleanser and warm water. Next, the aesthetician exfoliates the skin to remove dead skin cells and other impurities that can clog pores and contribute to breakouts. To do this, the professional uses a mild exfoliant or a facial scrub.
After the exfoliation process, the aesthetician typically applies a mask to the skin which can help to further purify the skin and improve its overall texture and appearance. The mask may be left on for a few minutes to allow it to work its magic, and removed using warm water.
After removing the mask, the aesthetician will apply a moisturizer to the skin to help hydrate and nourish it. This is essential for maintaining healthy, balanced skin and preventing future breakouts.
Microdermabrasion Facial
This non-invasive cosmetic treatment is one of the fastest ways to get a healthy glow. Microdermabrasion involves a handheld device used to buff away the top layers of dead skin. The goal after a microdermabrasion facial is brighter, smoother, more evenly toned skin. You’ll typically see improvements from depressed scars and discoloration right after the procedure.
A microdermabrasion facial uses fine crystals or a diamond-tipped wand to exfoliate the skin gently. This treatment is typically performed by a professional aesthetician and improves the skin’s appearance by reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. It also helps the overall texture and tone of the skin giving it a more youthful and radiant appearance.
In terms of helping those with acne-prone skin, microdermabrasion is effective because it unclogs pores and removes dead skin cells, reducing the likelihood of breakouts. It stimulates the production of collagen and elastin which improves the elasticity and firmness of the skin.
During a microdermabrasion facial, like a classic facial, a professional first cleanses the skin to remove any dirt, oil, and makeup. Next, the aesthetician uses a handheld device to apply the microdermabrasion crystals or diamond tip to the skin moving it in a circular motion to exfoliate the surface. This process typically takes about 30 minutes and may be slightly uncomfortable for some people.
After the microdermabrasion treatment, the aesthetician will apply a moisturizer to the skin to help hydrate and soothe it. They may also recommend using sunscreen to protect the skin from sun damage as your skin may be more sensitive following a microdermabrasion facial.
Microdermabrasion facials are a beneficial treatment for those with acne-prone skin. They unclog pores, remove dead skin cells, and stimulate collagen and elastin production all of which can help improve the skin’s appearance and health.
Light Emitting Diode (LED) Facial
LED facials emit a combination of white, red, and blue infrared light. These lights work on the tone, collagen, and bacteria in your skin. This light therapy facial aims to fight against active acne and is ideal for people with sensitive skin.
Performed by a professional aesthetician, LED facials aim to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve overall skin tone and texture, and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin.
In terms of helping those with acne-prone skin, LED facials can be effective because light therapy kills bacteria on the skin which reduces the likelihood of breakouts. It reduces inflammation and redness which are common in those with acne-prone skin.
During an LED facial, the aesthetician will cleanse the skin to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. Next, the professional will apply a gel to the skin and use a handheld LED light device to spread the light therapy. The light is typically blue or red depending on the specific concerns being treated on the skin. The treatment normally takes about 30 minutes and is generally a comfortable experience for most people.
After the LED facial, the aesthetician applies a moisturizer to the skin to help hydrate and soothe it. They may also recommend using sunscreen to protect the skin from sun damage as it can be more sensitive following a LED facial.
LED facials are a beneficial treatment for those with acne-prone skin. Light therapy kills bacteria on the skin and reduces inflammation and redness which improves the skin’s overall health and appearance.
Decongesting Facial
This facial treatment is essentially “professional pore-digging” to remove minor breakouts. Decongesting facials clear blocked pores to help dissolve the outer layers of skin for resurfacing and keeping pores clean.
A decongesting facial is a facial treatment designed to remove impurities and excess oil from the skin. This facial is often recommended for people with acne-prone skin as it can help unclog pores and reduce the likelihood of breakouts.
During a decongesting facial, a professional aesthetician first cleanses the skin to remove any dirt, oil, and other residues sitting on the skin’s surface using a gentle cleanser and warm water. Next, the aesthetician uses a facial steamer to open up the pores and make them more receptive to treatment.
After the steaming process, the aesthetician typically performs a manual extraction to remove any impurities clogging the pores. Manual extractions include techniques such as squeezing or pressing to remove contaminants from the pores on a person’s face. These impurities consist of things like blackheads, whiteheads, and other forms of acne. Manual extractions can be uncomfortable for some people but are essential in reducing the likelihood of breakouts.
After the extraction process, the aesthetician applies a mask to the skin to help purify and decongest it. A facial mask can help remove impurities and excess oil. It may be left on the skin for a few minutes to allow its magic to work.
After the process, the aesthetician applies a moisturizer to the skin for hydration and nourishment. This last moisturizing step is vital for maintaining healthy, balanced skin and can help prevent future breakouts.
A decongesting facial is an excellent option for those with acne-prone skin. It unclogs pores, removes impurities and excess oil, and nourishes the skin.
Brightening Facial
Including a mixture of acid peels, masks, and serums, brightening facials target dark marks (also known as hyperpigmentation). The goal of a brightening facial is to reduce the discoloration left over from previous issues with acne.
A brightening facial is a facial treatment designed to improve the overall tone and radiance of the skin. This facial is recommended for people with dull, uneven skin tone as it can help revitalize and brighten the skin.
A professional aesthetician cleanses the skin during a brightening facial to remove any dirt, oil, and makeup using a gentle cleanser and warm water, similar to the other facials listed above. Next, the aesthetician exfoliates the skin using a mild exfoliant or a facial scrub. This removes dead skin cells and other impurities that can lead to a dull complexion.
After the exfoliation process, the aesthetician typically applies a mask to the skin. This further purifies and brightens the skin and may contain ingredients such as vitamin C or fruit enzymes to help improve the skin’s overall tone and radiance. The mask may be left on for a few minutes to seep into the skin and removed using warm water.
After the mask is removed, a moisturizer will be applied to the skin to help keep it hydrated. This step is essential for maintaining healthy, balanced skin and preventing future dullness.
Overall, a brightening facial is an excellent option for dull, uneven skin tones. It exfoliates and purifies the skin to improve its overall tone and radiance.
Regular facials are essential to any skincare routine for those with acne-prone skin and are highly effective for those struggling with acne and other skin issues. Facials that involve deep cleansing, exfoliation, and extraction, are great ways to improve the appearance of your skin. Many facials also include nourishing and hydrating treatments which help maintain healthy, balanced skin and prevent future breakouts.
The Bottom Line
Clear skin is an essential aspect of overall health and well-being. It boosts self-esteem and confidence and is often viewed as a sign of youth and vitality. While genetics and hormones play a role in the skin’s health and appearance, many things can be done to improve the clarity and radiance of the skin.
Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, avoiding harsh skincare products, and using gentle, effective skincare products and treatments are essential for healthy skin. By taking care of the skin and addressing any specific concerns, achieving and maintaining clear, radiant skin is possible.
