- Use a nonsoap cleanser such as Cetaphil, which can be used with or without soap: Coat the face and rinse or wipe off gently with a clean towel. Or use other nonabrasive cleansers such as unscented glycerin or castile soap. Use only as much soap as needed and rinse with tepid (not hot) water to prevent over-drying the skin. To clear small pimples, work slowly to prevent scarring or spreading the pimples into a wider area. Drape a hot clean washcloth that has cooled off a bit over the face to open pores. Using clean hands, surround the pustule with the clean edges of facial tissue and push the whitehead up and out. Dab tea tree essential oil or hydrogen peroxide on the area. Do not rub.
- Using lemon juice diluted with filtered or distilled water, witch hazel or diluted apple cider vinegar as an astringent to sweep away dead skin cells. Use clean cotton balls, not a facial tissue, which can irritate skin. Do not overdo. Avoid products with a lot of alcohol because this can create a "rebound effect," prompting dry or oily skin to produce more oil.
- Steer clear of moisturizers with petroleum products. That means anything with mineral oil, baby oil or white petrolatum. Instead, pamper problem skin with a light moisturizer that is water-based. Avoid scented products that can irritate skin. Finish with a noncomedogenic sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.
