Clear up Acne

Edited by Debbie, Ermin, Charmed, Christine dela Cruz and 21 others

Acne, also referred to in the medical field as acne vulgaris, is a skin condition that has affected over 50 million Americans at nearly every age and stage of life, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Acne occurs when oil mixes with dead skin cells and bacteria that clogs the pores. It is most common among teenagers because this is the time when the oil glands start to become stimulated by hormones in the body, but many adults are plagued with this condition, as well. While it's not a serious or life-threatening medical condition, acne can have very detrimental effects on people suffering from its occurrence. Because of its impact on physical appearance, such as redness, swelling, dark spots and scars, acne is known to contribute to self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety and even suicide in some extreme cases. While there are many treatment and prevention options available, there is no real, complete cure for acne. Read on to learn more about acne, how to control it and how to prevent future occurrences.

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Acne Contributors

Acne is usually triggered by androgenic hormone fluctuations, which is why teenagers and women of child-bearing age are often affected, but there are many other contributors that can lead to its occurrence. There are many natural factors that make some people more prone to acne than others, but others like lifestyle choices and skincare can also contribute to its formation.

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  1. 1
    Genetics
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    Oftentimes, if one or both of your parents were affected by acne, it's likely that you will be, too.
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  2. 2
    Cosmetics and skincare products
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    Certain skincare products with harsh ingredients, oil-based makeup or lotions, and comedogenic ingredients can worsen acne. Even some hair care products can trigger breakouts. Try mild, non-comedogenic products, or those for sensitive skin to lessen your reaction.
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  3. 3
    Medical conditions
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    Some medical conditions, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, diabetes and ovarian tumors can contribute to the production of acne. Pregnancy also causes the hormones to fluctuate, so it can trigger acne in some women.
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  4. 4
    Medications
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    Medications such as hormone replacement therapy, birth control, steroids and other medications can cause acne breakouts. If you're concerned that your medication is contributing to your acne, talk to your doctor about your concerns.
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  5. 5
    Diet
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    Consuming an excessive amount of sugar or high-glycemic index foods such as refined carbohydrates, fast food and other processed foods can contribute to acne. Dairy might also be a culprit. It's best to stick with lean proteins, fresh veggies and fruits, and complex carbohydrates. Be sure to include sources of healthy fats such as olive oil, walnuts, flax seeds, avocados and fish such as tuna, salmon and sardines. To help your skin glow, try to eat one red, yellow and green vegetable at each meal.
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  6. 6
    Environment
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    High humidity, heat and air pollution can contribute to acne flare-ups. If this is the case with you, make sure to wash your face with a gentle cleanser twice daily.
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  7. 7
    Stress
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    While stress isn't a direct cause of acne, it can definitely contribute to flare-ups. You can't always control what happens in life, but you can take steps to control how it affects you. Take a few minutes out for yourself every day. Exercise, do yoga, go for a walk, engage in hobbies, spend time with your friends, pets or family members, eat something delicious, meditate, read a book, watch a movie or just do any type of activity that you enjoy.
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Daily Face Care Tips

Sticking to a regular skin care regimen can keep your acne under control, but what you use and how you use it is extremely important. There are many cleansers, moisturizers and makeup products that aggravate acne-prone skin and increase its occurrence.

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  1. 1
    Keep your face clean
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    Wash your face twice daily, once in the morning, and once before bed. Never go to bed with makeup on. Use a gentle facial cleanser or one designed for acne-prone skin that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to remove dead skin cells, and rinse warm water. Don't use a washcloth or any other scrubbing material, since these can irritate the skin and increase redness.
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  2. 2
    Use a moisturizer
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    Follow up your cleansing routine with a good moisturizer. Contrary to popular belief, using a light, oil-free moisturizer is crucial to maintaining your skin's natural oil balance. You can try moisturizers designed to control breakouts. There are also some lotions on the market designed for people with adult acne, which contains moisturizing, anti-aging and acne-fighting ingredients.
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  3. 3
    Try to avoid touching your face
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    You're only transferring bacteria to your skin, which can contribute to new breakouts and inflame existing ones. Resist the urge to poke and prod your blemishes, because this will increase redness and inflammation, and possibly lead to scarring.
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  4. 4
    Use sunscreen daily
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    The UV rays can cause inflammation and redness, so make sure you're using sunscreen when you're going outdoors. Some chemical sunscreens can irritate your skin if it's sensitive or acne-prone, so try physical sunscreens instead.
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  5. 5
    Choose the right makeup
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    Use only oil-free or non-comedogenic makeup. Mineral powders are a good choice because they don't clog pores and provide long-lasting coverage. Using a primer or liquid foundation that contains dimethicone or cyclomethicone is a good choice if you're not sensitive to it, because they'll help smooth out the skin's surface to reduce the appearance of acne.
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Acne Treatments

There are tons of products on the market that claim to fight and prevent acne, so how do you know which ones are the best for you? It depends on the level of severity of your condition. Mild or moderate acne can typically be treated with over-the-counter products, but severe cases might require a trip to the dermatologist's office. Listed below are several different acne treatments and how they work.

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  1. 1
    Benzoyl peroxide
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    Benzoyl peroxide is commonly found in a variety of over-the-counter acne-fighting face washes, lotions, creams and preparations designed to kill the bacteria that causes acne. It usually takes a few weeks to work with regular application, and it can possibly dry out the skin or bleach fabrics.
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  • 2
    Salicylic acid
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    Salicylic acid helps unclog your pores and promotes exfoliation, but it's not antibacterial, and it won't stop sebum production. It can also soothe irritated skin It's often found in face washes, lotions, toners, gels and pads.You'll have to use it continuously to reap full benefits.
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  • 3
    Alpha hydroxy acid
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    Alpha hydroxy acids work similarly to salicylic acid-containing products, but they're also good for dark spots and scars. They're usually more irritating to the skin than salicylic acid, so it's best to apply them every other day and build up to daily application.
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  • 4
    Antibiotics
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    For more severe cases of acne, such as cystic or nodular types, antibiotics may be prescribed. These work inside the body to kill the bacteria that lead to inflammation and acne formation. Tetracyclines are usually prescribed to treat acne, and they're taken orally. In some cases, doctors will prescribe topical antibiotic preparations that must be applied to the skin. These usually contain clindamycin or erythromycin, and treatments are often combined with benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
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  • 5
    Retinoids
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    Retinoids are products that contain derivatives of vitamin A. These work by unclogging pores and exfoliating dead skin cells, so they help clear up existing acne and prevent new breakouts from forming. It also boosts the skin's collagen production, diminishes the appearance of dark spots and reduces wrinkles when used regularly. Both over-the-counter and prescription retinoid creams are available, but they can both cause irritation or dryness, so use them according to the instructions.
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  • 6
    Anti-androgen medications
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    If your acne is due to an increase of androgenic hormones, especially if you're a woman and notice increased breakouts before menstruation, your doctor might prescribe spironolactone. This medication limits the activity of the oil glands and reduces the occurrence of acne formation.
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  • 7
    Isotretinoin
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    Isotretinoin is an oral retinoid that's prescribed for severe cases of acne that aren't responding to other treatments. It decreases oil production in the skin, but it comes with several side effects and risks, so talk to your doctor to determine if it's right for you.
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  • 8
    Birth control pills
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    Birth control pills can help limit the occurrence of hormonal acne, but they're not effective for every case. Their acne-fighting effects usually begin within 3 months of treatment.
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  • 9
    Corticosteroid injections
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    For particularly large, painful or long-lasting acne lesions that can't be treated topically, corticosteroid injections are one procedure that your doctor can perform to quickly treat them. Corticosteroid injections directly into a large cyst or nodule can provide an immediate decrease in swelling. They basically jump-start the healing process, so they're ideal if you need to treat a severe case of acne right before an important event.
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  • 10
    Chemical peels
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    A chemical peel can be performed as an outpatient procedure during which an acid, such as glycolic, lactic, salicylic or carbolic, are applied to the skin. This removes the top layers of the skin, which later results in a smoother, glowier appearance. It can help reduce the formation of acne, diminish the appearance of acne scars and discoloration, and smooth out fine lines. There are several different types of chemical peels that range from light to deep, and they all typically result in redness, peeling and irritation that lasts for up to a week, and photosensitivity for up to three months.
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  • 11
    Light therapy
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    Blue LED therapy can treat acne by stimulating oxygen radicals within the skin that target the P. acne bacteria, which is responsible for the production of acne. It works for mild or moderate cases of acne with no side effects, but it's not effective for severe or cystic acne. You can purchase a device for use at home, or receive treatments at your dermatologist's office.
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  • Home Remedies to Treat Acne

    You don't always have to shell out big bucks to treat acne. If you have a mild case of acne or only a few breakouts here and there, simple home remedies can make a big difference to your skin. Many of these items cost less than acne treatments that are available at the store, and others are things that you might already have in the kitchen. Check out the list below to find out what they are.

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    1. 1
      Tea tree oil
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      Mix 3 or 4 drops of 5-percent tea tree oil with 20 drops of witch hazel, and apply it to acne-prone areas of your face with a cotton swab or cotton balls after cleansing twice a day, before you apply your moisturizer.
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    2. 2
      Green tea
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      Apply cooled green tea to your face with a cotton ball or lay tea bags on red, inflamed areas to calm redness and soothe your breakouts.
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    3. 3
      Honey
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      Dab honey on blemishes and leave it for 20 minutes before rinsing. Honey contains natural antibacterial properties that can help fight the bacteria that causes acne.
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    4. 4
      Aspirin
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      Smash aspirin with a spoon and mix it with water to form a paste. Apply it to your blemishes after cleansing. Aspirin contains salicylic acid, which is commonly used to treat acne.
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    5. 5
      Aloe
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      Fresh or bottled aloe gel has soothing and healing properties, so it's great to dab on red, inflamed blemishes.
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    6. 6
      Apple cider vinegar
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      Mix apple cider vinegar with equal parts water, and dab it onto your blemishes with a cotton ball after cleansing. Raw, unfiltered vinegar works best, but any apple cider vinegar will do.
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    7. 7
      Echinacea tea
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      Apply cooled echinacea tea to blemishes with a cotton ball after cleansing to calm and soothe acne.
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    8. 8
      Mint and yogurt mask
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      Place 2 tablespoons of oatmeal in a blender and pulse it until it becomes a powder. Add 2 tablespoons of fresh mint leaves and 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt, and blend for a few seconds to create a mask. Apply it to clean skin and leave it on for 10 minutes, then rinse. This will help prevent new acne formations, and it's ideal for oily skin.
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    9. 9
      Baking soda
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      You can make a baking soda mask or scrub by combining equal parts baking soda and water. Either massage this onto your face and rinse well, or leave it for 15 minutes then rinse. Apply moisturizer afterward. Baking soda works great for oily skin, fights germs and helps remove dead skin cells through physical exfoliation. Limit this to once or twice a week to prevent irritation.
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    10. 10
      Citrus.
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      Fresh lemon or orange juice can help treat acne when mixed with equal parts water and applied with a cotton ball
      .
      Leave it on for 20 minutes, then rinse off and apply moisturizer.
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    FAQs

    What is Clindamycin?

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    Clindamycin is an antibiotic active substance that can combat bacteria in the body. It is mainly used to treat infections like acne. You can take it orally, apply the powdery substance on pimples, or just mix it with a facial cleanser. Clindamycin is a generic name and it is an active ingredient that can be found in different variations of anti-bacterial capsules. You may buy any anti-bacterial capsule as long as there's this active ingredient (Clindamycin) in it for treating acne.

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    What is Eskinol Pimple Fighting Facial Deep Cleanser?

    Eskinol - ermi1.jpg

    Eskinol is a facial cleanser. It is not harsh on skin because it is mainly created for removing excess oil and make-up on face. There are variations of this product as well. One of which is the Eskinol "Pimple Fighting". This contains Salicylic Acid and Tea Tee Extracts which can clear up pimples. It also formulated with Vitamin B3 and Chamomile Extract to lighten acne marks. You may find this on Amazon and eBay.

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    Can I use different facial cleanser?

    Yes, you can use different facial cleanser. I suggest you to choose a facial cleanser that can combat pimples. With this and the Clindamycin formulation, you will get clearer skin in just three days.

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    Warning

    Do not apply this solution if you are prone to allergic problems due to chemical mixture. Each person has different skin type, so do a skin test first before applying this solution. In addition, if you only have a few pimples, buy only the 150mg Clindamycin capsule. This is because a strong chemical substance may dry your skin.

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    Questions and Answers

    Can you make a paste out of Clindamycin capsules?

    Clindamycin has anti-bacterial properties that can be effective in treating moderate cases of acne. Improper use of this drug may lead to some side effects, so it is better to use it under professional supervision. While there is no known homemade paste yet which is clindamyin-based, some people mix it with their toners. One of the most common names known is Dalacin.

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    You may do that, if you put in less water into the powder from your clindamycin capsules. However, if you do that, that may be too strong to apply on your face. It may end up causing more irritation and therefore more acne later on. Clindamycin capsules are best dissolved if you plan to make a toner out of it instead.

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    Can Eskinol Cleanser be used to effectively treat acne-vulgaris?

    Yes of course! It is already proven by women and men who have used it. There is a little addition to eskinol (just the ordinary one and not those with whitening or calamansi) to make it work better and faster. You must add Dalacin C or Clindamycin hydrochloride. Dalacin C is an anti-biotic that contains Clindamycin hydrochloride. It is used to treat infections that were caused by bacteria.This comes in a capsule. You will need to do the following to make it work:

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    Woman-with-cotton-cleaning-face-199x300.jpg
    • Twist open the capsule (Dalacin C)
    • Remove the bottle cap of eskinol classic white
    • Mix the powder from the capsule to the cleanser
    • Shake the solution

    Yes, Eskinol Cleanser can be used to effectively manage acne vulgaris. The rationale behind it is that the Eskinol Cleanser contains anti-bacterial formula that effectively reduce the bacteria on the sebaceous oil which is responsible in the formation of acne vulgaris. It also contains Tea Tree extracts and Salicylic Acid which greatly helps in drying the pimples. It also contains Chamomile Extracts and Vitamin B3 which lighten the dark spots caused by pimples. Eskinol Cleanser also removes dirt and unblock clogged skin pores minimizing the formation of pimples and acne making the skin more healthy and oil free.

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    What kind of Clindamycin mix is in cleanser?

    If your cleanser is intended for acne-prone skin, the kind of Clindamycin that is added is more likely stronger and highly concentrated. Clindamycin is very well-known to reduce the infection that goes with acne. It is a topical medication.

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    What toner is more effective for men?

    I am prone to pimples, because every morning I can see new pimples that are forming on my face. If I am to use the clindamycin-toner regime. What toner should I use, some say that Women Toners are more effective for us guys. Is this true?

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    My pimples has a weekly schedule, I hate this. Please help me?

    Before I used to have many and it was like I have no chance of losing it. I decided to take an antioxidant vitamins. I started 3 months ago and it helps lessen some huge acne, but I noticed it keeps on returning every 2 weeks like for real. Although not so many but I really want to removed it. I tried also to have a diamond treatment to remove some scars but not sure if this is really advisable. Medications I take regularly is, 1 antioxidant vitamin and 1 vitamin C daily. Please let me know how you can help me. Thanks and I really appreciate your help.

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    I can't get rid of my acne problem?

    My acne problem is getting worse

    If you've tried a skincare routine that incorporates either salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or natural remedies and you haven't noticed any positive changes within a few weeks, you might need to visit a dermatologist. There are several options available that can make a huge difference in the quality of your skin. A dermatologist with create a customized treatment program that suits your skin's needs, and it may consist of a topical treatment, antibiotics or another oral medication, light therapy, chemical peel or corticosteroid injection.

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    How can I cure my pimple and pimple marks?

    I do have pimples in my cheeks even in my forehead. After a week I notice that pimple marks are on my face too. When my pimples already disappear, there are new pimples growing in both of my cheeks and it gets worse than before.

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    If your acne keeps reappearing, you'll need to incorporate certain ingredients into your daily skincare routine. Twice daily, you should wash your face with a gentle cleanser, lukewarm water and your fingertips (no scrubbing). Follow that up with a salicylic acid toner or combine equal parts apple cider vinegar and water and apply it using a cotton ball to acne-prone areas of the face. Allow it to soak in for a few minutes, then apply an oil-free moisturizer. You can also try a lotion that contains retinol. If you don't want to use toner, simply apply a light layer of benzoyl peroxide or salicylic-acid containing gel or cream to blemish-prone areas. Let it dry then apply your moisturizer. Stick to this routine, and adjust your diet, as well. Avoid processed foods, excess sugars and dairy products. If you don't notice an improvement within a few months, visit a dermatologist for treatment tailored specifically to your skin.

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    What are the remedies for large pores and dark spots?

    My pores are large and my black heads never fade away, although I am not using any make up or cream. I stopped already since 5 months ago cause I noticed my pimples are getting worse when I use those products. Now I just use Eskinol cleanser, but my pores are continuing to be bigger and bigger. That is all, thank you.

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    If you have large pores and blackheads, you might need to adjust your skincare routine. Clogged and enlarged pores are due to excess oil buildup and dead skin cells. You should use only mild, non-irritating facial cleansers, such as Cetaphil cleansing lotion, and follow it up with an alcohol-free salicylic-acid toner, such as Paula's Choice 2 percent BHA liquid. Follow it up with oil-free moisturizer. If you wear makeup, avoid heavy cream foundations or those that aren't labeled as non-comedogenic.

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    Can I apply tetracyclin powder directly to my face for acne?

    My face is covered with dark marks and nothing seems to work for me, it is very sensitive so I avoid using too many chemicals. I was wondering if I can apply tetracyclin or clindamycin

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    Will my acne scar fade away? I am really losing all my confidence?

    I was using differin and clydamicin that I got from the dermatologist last year. It worked and I had clear skin. However, I stopped last spring and wanted to try natural products. This was a mistake. School just started and I have acne marks in a lot of spots like side of head, checks, everywhere. I have no confidence and can't concentrate in school cause of the acne. I got my doctor to prescribe me the two products again but I fear the damage has already happened and that it will never go away. I never had oily skin before and now it is. Any advice. I can't see the dermatologist again until December 28th. I have tried: Benzy peroxide, salicylic acid and now went back on differin and clydamycin. I think it was caused by: Stress

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    How can I prevent my acne even though I'm just 15 years old? What is the solution for it and for having a white heads all the time?

    How can I prevent the acne on teens skin ?

    When you're a teenager, your skin is in oil-producing overdrive because of hormonal changes. This can contribute to acne, but since you're still young, your skin is relatively thick and can handle stronger salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide treatments. Try a gentle face wash twice daily, but avoid harsh scrubbing and use only lukewarm water. Apply a salicylic acid toner, then apply a light layer of a benzoyl peroxide spot treatment to the areas that you normally notice blemishes. Follow up with an oil-free moisturizer after the treatments dry. Stick with this routine for a long time, since it can take weeks to notice an improvement.

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    My left cheek is infected with acne and big pimples either, also my chin and upper part of my lip. I also have lots of blackheads but the rest of my face is fine, so I'm using clarifying toner and eskinol with clindamycin, I'm not using any moisturizer because my face is so oily so I decided to do not use any moisturizer for a while, then I am using kojic acid soap. Now from this skin care routine is it okay for me? I'm 17 years old?

    Acne-prone , pimple and oily face.. I have tried: Clarifying toner, eskinol with clindamycin 150mg then kojic acid soap for my whitening skin and to clear pores

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