7 Everyday Tips to Care for Acne-Prone Skin

Nearly 1 in 10 people struggle with acne, and finding the right skin care routine can be challenging if you have acne-prone skin. 

But because acne is so common, medical professionals have plenty of tips on how to manage it. That means you can create a skin care routine for acne that suits your needs. Acne shouldn’t have to get in the way of feeling confident in your skin.

Skin care tips for managing acne

Here are some tips to help you get started with an acne skin care routine.

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1. Exfoliate properly

Exfoliation, or the removal of dead skin cells on the skin's surface, is usually done in one of two ways: physically or chemically. 

Physical exfoliation involves mechanically removing dead skin cells through procedures like microdermabrasion or facial scrubs. Rosmy Barrios, MD, an aesthetic medicine and cosmetology specialist, says those with acne-prone or sensitive skin should avoid harsh scrubbing or abrasive exfoliation. 

“It can irritate the skin, worsen inflammation, and potentially spread bacteria,” Barrios explains.

Also note: Many everyday skin care products already contain chemical exfoliants, like salicylic acid. If you already use a product that contains a chemical exfoliant, dermatologists recommend avoiding exfoliation.

2. Protect yourself from harsh UV rays

Exposure to environmental factors, like UV radiation, can trigger or worsen acne, according to a 2023 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. Barrios explains that “protecting the skin from harmful UV rays is essential whether you deal with acne or not.” 

And most acne treatments make the skin more sensitive to UV light. So don’t forgo sunscreen. 

Concerned about excess oil? There are lots of oil-free and non-clogging sunscreens on the market. 

3. Avoid excess exposure to oils

Although the skin naturally produces oil that balances your skin microbiome, oily skin can clog your pores. And clogged pores can lead to more acne.

A few simple ways to avoid excess oil include:

• Avoid touching your face.

• Frequently clean surfaces, like phone screens or pillowcases, that make contact with your skin.

• Remove your makeup as early as possible at the end of the day.

• Wear oil-free sunscreens and moisturizers.

• Wash your face with gentle cleansers after sweating or exercising.

4. Avoid squeezing or picking your acne

Although it’s tempting, picking at acne or popping pimples can result in scars and can exacerbate acne. Treating acne scars can be tougher than treating the acne itself, and more severe scars may even require laser treatment. 

5. Choose the right skin care products for acne 

Your skin care routine for acne may include a base level of everyday products, and then a few active ingredients that center on fighting the cause of your acne. Reach for products that say “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic,” meaning they are not known to be acne-causing. 

A base-level skin care routine for acne may consist of:

• Gentle facial cleanser

• Lightweight, oil-free moisturizer

• Oil-free sunscreen

• Makeup remover

Barrios encourages the use of moisturizer, although it might feel counterintuitive. “Even acne-prone skin needs hydration,” she explains.

6. Practice proper skin hygiene

Proper hygiene is paramount when caring for acne and is the most important step in treating it.

This includes:

• Washing your face in the morning and evening

• Performing skin care after brushing your teeth, to get rid of excess saliva or toothpaste on your skin

• Moisturizing with a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer

• Removing makeup daily with a makeup remover product followed with a cleanser

7. Be mindful of your diet

We are still learning about the connection between the gut and the skin. However, Ross Radusky, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at the Dermatology Treatment and Research Center in Dallas, Texas, says, “The most important thing about diet and acne is that our skin hates changes.” 

That means the skin may respond poorly to drastic caloric restriction or elimination of major food groups. Radusky adds that some foods, like refined sugar, may increase inflammation, which can lead to increased breakouts.

He encourages people to eat a well-balanced diet and to eat sweets in moderation that are naturally lower in sugar. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends eating low-glycemic foods to help remedy acne. These foods include fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.

What causes acne?

Acne may be caused by several factors, including:

• Genetics

• Hormonal changes or imbalances

• Clogged pores

• Excess oil

• Overgrowth of bacteria 

Barrios says, “Acne is primarily caused by the combination of excess oil production, clogged pores, and bacteria on the skin.” 

Oil glands produce sebum, which is necessary for healthy skin, Barrios clarifies. But an overproduction of sebum can clog pores, which provides an ideal environment for bacteria to grow, triggering inflammatory acne.

Hormonal imbalance may also cause acne. Barrios says, “[Hormonal] fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or hormonal disorders can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil, exacerbating acne.”

What is the main treatment for acne?

Many individuals struggling with acne opt for over-the-counter remedies. If those don’t work, you can contact a medical provider for more advice or to consider a prescription.

Treatment may entail over-the-counter products that contain ingredients like:

• Benzoyl peroxide

• Salicylic acid

• Alpha hydroxy acid

• Azelaic acid

• Beta hydroxy acid 

• Hyaluronic acid

• Retinoids, which may be over the counter or prescription depending on the formulation

Acne medication may also include prescription acne treatment, such as:

• Tetracycline

• Doxycycline

• Minocycline

• Isotretinoin 

When should you talk to your doctor about acne?

“There’s no right or wrong time to talk to a doctor,” Radusky says. Many individuals reach for over-the-counter treatments. And through trial and error, they find the right regimen for their skin. 

However, some conditions may require more prompt treatment. Talk to your provider if you suspect a new medication is the cause of your acne, or you notice signs of infection, like redness, swelling, or pain.

Start by making an appointment with your primary care provider for help starting an acne treatment plan. If the treatments aren’t working or your condition is more complex, your provider may refer you to a dermatologist. 

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Written by:

Payton Sy, BSN, RN

Payton Sy, BSN, RN, is a registered nurse with experience in women's health, primary care, and health insurance utilization management. She also worked as a certified nursing assistant in the senior health space before attending nursing school.

Edited by:

Renée Fabian, MA

Renée Fabian is the senior pet health editor at GoodRx. She’s worked for nearly 10 years as a journalist and editor across a wide range of health and well-being topics.

Reviewed by:

Maria Robinson, MD, MBA

Maria Robinson, MD, MBA, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist who has practiced dermatology and dermatopathology for over 10 years across private practice, academic, and telehealth settings. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society of Dermatopathology.

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