Simple Steps to Banish Breakouts
1/4Skin flash! These quick and easy tips from top New York City dermatologist Heidi Waldorf, MD, will help you banish breakouts.
2/4Don't Pick Pimples
When you see or feel a deep pimple starting, don't pick it! That just pushes more of the inflammatory cells (white cells, sebum, bacteria, skin cells) into the surrounding skin and causes more acne and increases the risk of scarring.
Instead, call your dermatologist to get fit in for an injection of the cyst with dilute corticosteroid solution. If you can't get in to the dermatologist's office, apply benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or sulfur gel and over the counter 1% hydrocortisone cream. "Dab on this powerful spot treatment to stay in the clear," Dr. Waldorf explains.
3/4Fight Body Acne
Sweating can make even non-comedogenic makeup and creams move and shift to irritate the sebaceous follicles and aggravate acne. "This product works well for body acne," says Dr. Waldorf.
4/4Avoid Tanning
Never go tanning to try to reduce acne—it actually makes it worse in the long run. This oil-free bronzer gives skin a glow—without clogging pores.
