Things You'll Need:
- A local drug store
- Samples from more "luxury" skincare lines
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Step 1
Determine the source of your acne. Acne can be caused by numerous things, including puberty, clogged pores and even stress. For persistent acne, it is probably essential to visit a doctor who can determine if your problem necessitates prescription medicine, which includes creams and antibiotics. Some of the more aggressive medical treatments come with their own set of problems and side effects.
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Step 2
If you don't have a chronic acne that necessitates medical care, and are inclined to try and treat the problem yourself, you may consider some over-the-counter treatments as well as products from "luxury" skincare like Kate Somerville, Mario Badescu or Sonya Dakar, all of which have special lines specific to the treatment of acne. Since those lines are pricey, you might want to visit their websites (and other similar companies) to see if they offer samples.
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Step 3
Test products. Whether you're considering something that you can buy from your local drugstore or department store, or a more high-end boutique or specialty--and you have notoriously sensitive skin--you must test products before you use them. Don't use your face. An ideal place to try products is to rub them on the inside, the crook of your elbow. Wait a few minutes and if you don't have a reaction, it's likely to not irritate your skin.
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Step 4
There are so many lines available now, you may want to start out by checking out traditionally gentle products, those that indicate anti-allergens or are designed specifically for sensitive skin (Almay, Neutrogena and Clinique) and look at what acne-preventing/clearing products they carry. It may also be best to get all your products from the same company, as they are designed to work together.
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Step 5
Know what you need. Provided you've already found a line that suits you, one that is designed for acne-prone as well as sensitive skin, it's best to follow the manufacturer's directions, which often include the following steps: a cleansing lotion, a toner and a specific formula to apply on outbreaks. An occasional facial mask should also be considered.
