Acne Tips

Don't Scrub

You can't scrub your acne away. In fact abrasive or frequent washing can lead to dry skin and irritated acne. Your skin will respond best to kind attention. Gently wash your face no more than twice a day with a mild cleanser and pat your skin dry with a clean towel. If you exercise hard and sweat a lot you may want to wash your face afterwards.
Gently Cleanse

Use a mild cleanser no more than twice a day and gently wash and dry your skin. Apply a noncomedogenic (won't clog your pores) sunscreen.
Don't Pop Pimples

The temptation to scratch, pick, squeeze or pop a pimple can be intense, but the consequences just are not worth it. You run the risk of pushing the bacteria from the pimple further into the skin and causing more breakouts.

Popping a pimple may also cause brown or red scars to appear that can last for months. In severe acne cases popping pimples may cause dents and pits that can last forever.
Use Only Noncomedogenic Products

When purchasing cosmetics, sunscreen or other skin care products, make sure the label reads noncomedogenic. These products, as well as those labeled nonacnegenic, won't clog your pores and therefore won't cause or make your acne worse.
Patience is a Virtue

Be patient. Healing takes time. Unfortunately this doesn't happen overnight. Results are generally seen in a few weeks, but may take up to 8 weeks or more. Don't be tempted by over night promises. So give your acne treatment a fighting chance.
Use Sunscreen

Many acne medications contain ingredients that can make your skin extra sensitive to sunlight and ultraviolet light from tanning booths. Read the label warnings, avoid tanning booths, and always use a sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15. Sun exposure can actually irritate acne even if you are not using an acne medication. So don't make sunbathing a part of your lifestyle and always use sunscreen.
More is Not Better

If you use more acne medication than directed by your doctor you can actually worsen your acne. Many over-the-counter acne treatments contain active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Too much of either of these can cause your skin to become excessively dry or irritated. It can take time for your skin to adapt to new medications. Remember that it may take up to 8 weeks for any acne medication to have a noticeable effect. Use the medication exactly as directed by your doctor and if you don't see an improvement within 8 weeks talk with your dermatologist.
Consult a Dermatologist

A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in conditions of the skin. If you are having a hard time treating your acne successfully, it might be best to visit a dermatologist. A dermatologist will be able to evaluate your individual skin type and recommend an acne treatment that is best for you.
Here's the Rub

Headbands and hats can aggravate your acne as they rub against your forehead. Try to avoid these things when possible.
Don't Touch Your Face

It's amazing how often we touch our faces during an average day. Our hands have oil on them and of course bacteria too, both of which can make acne worse. So avoid touching your face or leaning your chin on your hand. Be sure that other objects that come in contact with your face like cell phones, telephone receivers, eye glasses, etc are clean.
Wash Your Hair Frequently

If your hair is long enough to touch your face, you'll want to wash it as often as necessary to keep the oils away. If you can't avoid hair sprays or gels altogether, try to keep them and your hair away from your face because they can clog pores.
Review Your Environment

Pollution, airborne grease (such as in a fast food restaurant), irritating clothing - all these can aggravate your acne. It isn't always possible to avoid all the various irritants that may contribute to your acne. You can, however, make educated decisions that may help to minimize their impact. Loosen tight, irritating clothing or find fabrics that breathe better and don't aggravate your acne.

Credit : www.acnemedicine.com