When beginning a new acne treatment, acne sufferers are often excited and motivated by the possibility of finally obtaining clear skin and the confidence it brings. However, when beginning an acne control routine, patients may need to tweak a few habits to realize the results they are looking for.

In order to see the best results from treatments, they must be used exactly as prescribed. There may be more than one causation for your acne, and acne medications can normally only target one to two causes. For this reason, the patient must follow the exact instructions and order given from their board certified DAA dermatologist for their specific combination of products. Adding acne treatments not prescribed by your dermatologist can irritate skin, leading you to more breakouts.

While exercise is a great way to increase circulation and provide a glow, the sweat that accompanies it can clog pores and aggravate acne-prone skin. After sweating, gently cleanse skin with your recommended cleanser to prevent breakouts. Avoid attempting to scrub the sweat out, which can irritate the skin and make acne worse. In general, it is a good idea to discuss the usage of scrubs, toners, and masks with harsh ingredients with your dermatologist. A mild cleanser used twice daily is more effective for getting breakouts under control.

Along the same lines, popping, touching, or squeezing acne makes it worse. While gentle extraction of non-inflamed blackheads can help prevent later breakouts, in most cases picking, squeezing, or scratching acne is not recommended because it may lead to scarring. Getting rid of acne can become nearly impossible due to the bacteria carried on hands and the possible long-lasting acne scars that the abrasive prodding can leave. If you choose to gently extract, it is best to use an extraction tool or fully sanitized hands.

Many acne sufferers already have acne scars that they attempt to cover with makeup. Wearing oil-free makeup that is free of harmful chemicals that could aggravate skin is fine, but be sure to apply topical acne medication prior. As always, wash off makeup before bed. After showering or washing the face, wait five to fifteen minutes to apply acne medication. Wet skin is the most absorbent, which can lead to irritation depending on the product. For all skin types, irritation can be reduced by using a product tailor made for your skin. At DAA, we offer customized prescription compounds based on your specific skin and acne type to improve skin condition and minimize inflammation. Additionally, we recommend Isolaz ™, a combination light and suction treatment to heal acne with added perks of eliminating sun damage, spider veins, and unwanted hair.

If you do not see immediate results, don’t be discouraged. As noted earlier, acne is a tricky condition often with a variety of causes and triggers.  It generally takes most patients continued use of acne medications for a series of weeks or even months before dramatic results can be noticed.  Once you’ve obtained blemish free skin, continue to use at least one medication that contains acne-fighting ingredients to keep skin under control.

For more tips on skin care maintenance, please follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+. If you are currently affected by acne, please contact us to make an appointment and get on your road to recovery today.