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] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

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.

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.

Oily skin: Choose a gel-based moisturizer. [2] X Research source 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] X Research source 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.

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.

Also be sure to wash off other cosmetics, such as sunscreen. Remember to wash your face after taking your makeup off.

Try to avoid detergents with fragrances and dryer sheets. Both can trigger acne for some people.

Vitamin A. Vitamin helps your body flush out acne-causing proteins and oil from the skin cycle. [6] X Research source 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. [6] X Research source 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. [10] X Research source Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids promote healthy cell turnover and cut down on inflammation. [6] X Research source Examples of omega-3 fatty acids include flax seed, salmon, sunflower seeds, and almonds.

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.