For mild acne there are a variety of over-the-counter treatments that can be tried. We recommend being consistent with these treatments for at least 4-6 weeks. If there is no improvement with consistent treatment proceed to the next step. Here is a good step wise approach.
Step 1: Wash your face once or twice a day with a gentle cleanser [such as Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser or CeraVe Gentle Facial Cleanser], do not scrub as this can cause skin irritation. After washing, apply a topical acne medication [such as Adapalene (Differin) or Benzoyl peroxide* (Clean and Clear, Neutrogena)].
Step 2: Use medicated acne face wash [such as Salicylic acid (Neutrogena) or Benzoyl peroxide* (Proactive, OxyWash)] once or twice a day, followed by a topical acne medication from above.
Step 3: Call and make an appointment with one of our providers to discuss further options.
If these treatments cause skin dryness you can use a gentle facial moisturizer such as Aveeno, Cetafil, or CeraVe and/or decrease frequency of treatments to every other day.
*Benzoyl peroxide containing products can bleach towels/bedding- use white towel/sheets to avoid this
Other tips:
-Try to avoid touching your face
-Do not squeeze or pop acne lesions
-Wash your face after exercising
-Use makeup or sunscreen labeled "noncomedogenic"
