Acne is the worst.
It shows up at the worst time, stays too long, and makes you feel like you’re back in high school—even if you’re pushing 40.
I’ve been dealing with acne for years. I’ve tried everything from drugstore creams to weird DIY masks that smelled like salad dressing.
I’m also married to a dermatologist, which means I get a mix of love and eye rolls every time I try a new skincare trend.
So if you’re tired of breakouts and just want real answers without the hype, keep reading. I’m going to walk you through how to get rid of acne, one simple step at a time.
Why Am I Breaking Out?
First, let’s clear something up: acne is not just from dirty skin.
You can wash your face three times a day and still break out.
Here’s what’s really going on:
- Your pores get clogged with oil and dead skin
- Bacteria can grow in those clogged pores
- Hormones, stress, and even some makeup can make it worse
- And yes, your genes can play a big part too
My husband says acne is like a traffic jam in your skin. Oil is the car, dead skin is the blocked road, and bacteria is the angry guy honking and causing inflammation.
Sounds about right.
Step 1: Wash Your Face—But Don’t Go Crazy
Some people think the harder you scrub, the faster the acne goes away. Nope.
Scrubbing too hard or using harsh cleansers can actually make things worse. Your skin needs to be clean, not stripped.
Use a gentle face wash (look for “fragrance-free” or “for sensitive skin”) and wash your face twice a day—morning and night. If you wear makeup, wash again at night to get it all off.
Also, use lukewarm water, not hot. Hot water can make your skin red and dry.
Step 2: Use Ingredients That Really Work
This is where most people get overwhelmed. But don’t worry—you only need a few good products.
Benzoyl Peroxide
This kills the bacteria that cause acne. Start with a low strength (like 2.5%). Higher ones can dry your skin out.
Salicylic Acid
This helps clean out your pores and prevent new breakouts. It’s great for blackheads and small pimples. I use a toner with it a few times a week.
Retinoids (Like Adapalene)
These help your skin renew itself faster, so pimples don’t have time to form. They also help fade dark spots from old acne. Use just a little and start slow—like twice a week.
My husband reminds me every time: if you use a retinoid, wear sunscreen during the day. Always.
Azelaic Acid and Niacinamide
These are gentler but still powerful. They calm the skin, help with redness, and won’t clog your pores.
I once called niacinamide “boring,” and my husband said, “It’s boring because it works quietly.” He’s not wrong.
Step 3: Try a Few Natural Remedies
I love natural beauty—when it actually works. Some “natural” stuff is just hype, but a few things do help.
Tea Tree Oil
This can fight bacteria, but never use it straight on your skin. Always mix it with another oil (like jojoba). Or buy a product that has it already mixed in.
Aloe Vera
Soothes and calms red, irritated skin. I keep mine in the fridge for extra cool relief.
Raw Honey
This is great for calming breakouts. It’s antibacterial and gentle. I do a honey mask when my skin feels rough.
Green Tea
You can drink it or dab it on your skin. It helps with oil and inflammation.
Just remember: if a natural product burns, stings, or makes your skin worse—stop using it. “Natural” doesn’t always mean safe.
Step 4: Fix What’s Happening Inside Too
Acne isn’t just a skincare issue. Sometimes, your lifestyle is part of the problem.
I’m not here to tell you to give up pizza forever. But a few changes can make a big difference.
Eat Better
Try cutting back on sugar and dairy for a few weeks and see if your skin improves. Eat more fresh food—vegetables, fruits, lean protein, whole grains.
Drink Water
No, water alone won’t clear your acne. But your skin needs it to stay healthy and heal.
Sleep and Stress
Less sleep and more stress = more breakouts. It’s true. I notice it every single time I’m tired or overwhelmed.
Stay Clean
Change your pillowcases, clean your phone screen, and don’t sleep in your makeup. These little things matter.
Step 5: What to Do When a Big Pimple Pops Up
Some breakouts are small. Others feel like a third eye growing on your forehead.
Here’s what actually helps:
- Put ice on it to bring down the swelling
- Use a pimple patch (hydrocolloid bandage)—these are magic
- Dab on benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid
- Don’t pick or pop (I know, it’s hard. But don’t.)
If it’s big, painful, and under the skin, a dermatologist can give you a cortisone shot to shrink it fast. My husband has done this for me before a big event. It works like a charm.
Step 6: When It’s Time to See a Pro
If your acne is:
- Not going away
- Leaving scars
- Or making you feel bad about yourself
Please, go see a dermatologist.
There are stronger treatments out there—prescription creams, pills, light therapy—that really work. You don’t have to suffer or keep guessing.
My husband always says: “You treat it early so you don’t treat the scars later.”
Be Patient and Keep It Simple
Here’s the truth: acne takes time to heal.
Most treatments need at least 4 to 12 weeks to show real results. Don’t switch products every few days. Stick to a routine and give it a chance.
Also, don’t expect perfect skin. No one has it. Not even that Instagram girl with the flawless selfies.
Your goal is healthy, calm skin. That’s more than enough.
A Simple Skincare Routine to Try
Morning:
- Gentle cleanser
- Niacinamide serum (optional)
- Moisturizer
- Sunscreen
Night:
- Cleanser
- Retinoid or salicylic acid (alternate nights)
- Moisturizer
That’s all you need to start.
Final Thoughts
Acne doesn’t mean you’re dirty, or lazy, or doing something wrong. It just means your skin needs a little help.
You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars. You don’t need a 10-step routine. And you’re not alone.
I’ve had breakouts that made me cry. I’ve also found things that worked—and I’m sharing them so you don’t have to struggle alone.
Be patient. Be kind to your skin. And know that clear skin is totally possible, one small step at a time.
