How to Treat Skin Blemishes

Dealing with acne and blemishes can be difficult and embarrassing. Trying to get rid of blemishes can also be expensive. However, with a little knowledge and effort, you can get rid of blemishes without breaking the proverbial bank. You just need to know which remedies to use and why they work.

Things You'll Need

• Gentle-cleansing soap Benzoyl peroxide Salicylic acid Alpha hydroxy acid Tea tree oil Prescription, if necessary

Instructions

How to Treat Skin Blemishes

1. Keep your skin clean. Use a gentle cleanser, such as Cetaphil, Dove or Neutrogena, to wash your face twice daily.

2. Treat blemishes with a spot treatment that has benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Benzoyl peroxide works by killing the bacteria that most commonly causes blemishes. Salicylic acid works by drying the blemishes up. These acne-fighting ingredients can also be found in other products, such as lotions and soaps.

3. Use products containing alpha hydroxy acid, which dries blemishes and encourages the top layer of skin to peel. Look for soaps, lotions, sunscreens and washes that contain alpha hydroxy acid.

4. Try tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial and antiseptic. You can find tea tree oil in concentrated forms or in products such as washes and lotions.

5. If conventional remedies have failed to heal blemishes or if your acne is severe, a trip to the doctor or dermatologist may be in order. Your physician may give you a prescription to help get rid of your acne. The prescription depends largely on the cause of your skin problem. Some medications kill bacteria, while others reduce oil or control hormones.

References

• Acne information