How to Get Rid of Redness Caused by Acne

Many home remedies claim to reduce acne redness.

Acne manifests as bumps on the skin such as pimples, blackheads, whiteheads and pustules, and often occurs when pores overproduce sebum. This skin condition affects a large number of individuals and can cause discomfort, embarrassment and self-consciousness. You can approach the elimination of redness caused by acne many ways, including home remedies, over-the-counter solutions, trips to the dermatologist and prescription creams and medications. Some of these solutions can help you get on your way to a clear, even complexion.

Things You'll Need

• Cleanser
• Toner
• Moisturizer
• Ice cubes (optional)
• Garlic (optional)
• Lemon juice (optional)
• Rose water (optional)
• Eye drops (optional)

Instructions

1. Begin a skin-care regimen, or revise the one you follow currently. A widely used method is to cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser intended for your skin type once or twice per day. Follow the cleanser with moisturizer, which is most effective for dry skin, or toner, beneficial for oily skin.

2. Reduce the redness associated with acne with one of several home remedies. Wrap a small amount of ice in a clean cloth and hold it to the blemish to reduce redness and swelling after approximately 10 minutes. Other at-home methods include the application of fresh garlic at regular intervals or eye drops, which reduce redness in acne as they do when placed in the eyes.

3. Apply over-the-counter acne medications. Many products are available at your local drug stores, and the pharmacist should be able to assist you in finding one that is right for your skin. Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are the main active ingredients in products that fight acne.

4. Contact a local dermatologist. This is the best option for those with moderate to severe acne problems. A dermatologist can assess your skin and prescribe products tailored to your specific needs.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid touching and scrubbing your face, as these can instigate acne.

• Buy oil-free and non-comedogenic face products, such as sunscreen and makeup, to help prevent acne.

• Follow the directions of acne products precisely, as using more of the product than directed can lead to increased redness.

References

• Kids Health: Acne
• Kids Health: Acne Myths
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: Acne
• National Library of Medicine: Medline Plus: Acne