How to Get Clear Skin: 11 Tips from Dermatologists

1. DO: Use a cleaning brush

A cleanser "removes more dirt, bacteria and makeup from your skin," says Dr. Debra Jaliman, a certified dermatologist and author of Skin Rules: Trade Secrets by a prominent New York dermatologist. Cleansing brushes also exfoliate the skin's surface, leaving it softer and smoother. Just be sure to use a device designed for acne. Some hairs may be too coarse, causing redness and tenderness.

2. DO NOT: Use any facial cleanser

Despite the common desire to pop blackheads, Dr. Jaliman suggests a mild cleanser specially designed for acne-prone skin. It sounds contradictory, but any cleanser that strips the skin of its natural oils can stimulate oil production, which often leads, yes, to more breakouts. In other words, it's the boomerang effect right there on the chin.

3. DO: Use toner (but not toner)

Alcohol-rich skin removers are a bad idea for most people, especially those who are sensitive to acne. Instead, Dr. Jaliman suggests a glycolic acid or salicylic acid toner morning and evening after cleansing to prevent dead skin cells from clogging the pores. The right toner can also balance the skin's natural pH, soothe and soothe the skin, while reducing redness. Ahhh

4. DO NOT: choose, push or pop

You may have seen the must-have stomach flipping videos that glorify zit popping. Look at them if necessary, but don't follow their example. Instead, channel this energy to apply local treatment. This will dry out the affected area and reduce inflammation. You can also look for acne masks, peels, and even skin care devices to help remove redness and restore clear skin.

5. DO: say hello to the retinoids

A topical retinoid can keep pores clogged and help acne treatments work better and faster, says Dr. Jeremy Brauer, director of clinical research at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center in New York. These products can be tough, so start by applying only a pea-sized amount to your face and only do this once every three days. As your skin adjusts, you can switch to a night application and enjoy knowing that your face is now "after" the image material.

6. NO: ignore the sunscreen

The idea that sun exposure can burn outbreaks is a long-debunked myth. In fact, "sun, heat, and humidity can make your sebaceous glands hyperactive, which can lead to breakouts," says Dr. Dendy Engelman, a certified dermatologist surgeon associated with Manhattan Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery. To avoid breakouts, choose an oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreen and apply liberally.

7. DO: Play with clay

Clay is an excellent ally for oily skin prone to acne. Removes impurities and absorbs oil, but does not leave skin dry, bare or irritated. Dr. Jaliman suggests a clay mask once a week. If your skin is inflamed, look for a clay mask that also contains clarifying enzymes and / or sulfur to treat outbreaks and relieve redness.

8. DO: Nourish your face

There are so many conflicting messages about food: don't eat pizza, fat begets fat, chocolate is the enemy, it's tempting to ignore everything. Recent investigations to the rescue! Experts have found that sugar, high-glycemic foods (white rice, white bread, pasta, potatoes), and skim milk can make outbreaks worse. Dr. Jaliman recommends a diet rich in antioxidants, which includes fruits, vegetables, nuts, green and black tea, and fish. If it is difficult to obtain these antioxidants from food, supplements are a wise alternative.

9. DO: consider the LED light

If topical acne treatments don't work fast enough, consider an LED (light-emitting diode) device. "LED therapy is a form of low-level light energy that penetrates the skin to cause different reactions and attack different problems," says Dr. Robin Evans, a board-certified dermatologist at Southern Connecticut Dermatology. "It can repair tissue and promote wound healing. Energy can also attack bacteria, inflammation and stimulate collagen, "he adds.

10. DO: Clean your phone

The bacteria on your cell phone can cause it to explode, which could explain the pimples on your cheek. "Don't put the phone on your face, wear headphones instead!" Dr. Jaliman said. We used to treat our phones with care; now we know that we can clean them with a disinfectant wipe or alcohol-soaked cotton.

11. DO: Go to sleep

This is called beauty sleep for a reason. When you sleep, the skin repairs itself, produces collagen and heals wounds. And if you don't sleep, not only do you end up with dark circles and under-eye bags, but you're also more likely to experience increased acne, fine lines, dehydration, and irritation. Phew! Adults need at least seven hours of restful sleep per night. So, an hour or two before your new bedtime, put away your electronics and go into a nice hot tub or shower. Increasing and subsequently decreasing body temperature will numb you and improve the quality of your sleep throughout the night.

About This Author

Ariba Pervaiz Joined: June 18th, 2020