The 10 Commandments of Clear Skin

Want to banish zits forever? (Stupid question?) These are the rules to live by.

1. KEEP IT CLEAN

Your makeup might hide zits, but it also traps free radicals against your skin, says Zoe Draelos, a professor of dermatology at Duke University. Wash your face morning, night, and after the gym with a cleanser that contains up to 2 percent salicylic acid. We like Burt’s Bees Natural Acne Solutions Purifying Gel Cleanser for sensitive skin

2. DON’T POP YOUR ZITS

It’s so hard not to, we know. But try to resist. Popping your pimples will only result in inflammation, scarring, and yes, more acne. If you’re truly tempted, some experts suggest keeping your hands busy with a squeeze toy.

3. BUT IF YOU DO…

OK, what’s done is done. Now disinfect the area with a 2.5 percent benzoyl peroxide product such as Neutrogena On-the-Spot Acne Treatment and dot on a salicylic acid—dermatologist Doris Day recommends Clean & Clear Advantage Popped Pimple Relief Drying Paste—to help unclog the pore.

4. STICK WITH THE BASICS

There are certain ingredients that have proven themselves in clinical trials (benzoyl peroxide or glycolic or salicylic acid for acne)—use them. And give them a chance: They need at least six weeks to work. “If nothing has changed by week six, the product will never work for you,” says David Bank, a professor of dermatology at Columbia University/New York-Presbyterian Hospital. Then, it’s time to see a dermatologist—prescription products or in-office treatments may offer some relief.

5. TRY RETINOIDS

Retinoids aren’t just for wrinkles. They also fade spots, build collagen, and prevent acne—but only when used correctly. At night, instead of your overnight acne treatment, dot a pea-size amount (we like Sadick Dermatology Group PM Reversal Serum) on your fingertips and rub it all over your face. Using them on the skin as a whole helps with cell turnover, says Heidi A. Waldorf, director of cosmetic and laser dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City.

6. TREAT EARLY

Spot-treating your pimple can reduce its lifespan by one to two days. But the real goal is a clear complexion—and early intervention is key. “You need to prevent acne from forming, and that means treating skin that’s prone to pimples even if there are none present,” says dermatologist Karyn Grossman. So use all acne products over your entire face.

7. BUT DON’T OVERTREAT

Overusing acne products can lead to excess drying and, in some cases, chemical burns. Apply the amount recommended on the packaging (usually enough for a thin layer), not a giant palmful. Finish with an oil-free moisturizer.

8. CALM DOWN

Easier said than done, we know. But stress hormones increase oil production, which can lead to clogged pores and whiteheads. So make an effort to relax when needed. “Anything that reduces stress in your body—tai chi, running, sex, a warm bath—will make you have less acne, less often,” says Richard Fried, a dermatologist and clinical psychologist in Yardley, Pennsylvania.

9. PROTECT YOUR SKIN

Acne products can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage, so be sure to use SPF 30 or higher. Look for formulas labeled noncomedogenic, which won’t clog pores. We love Coppertone Oil Free Faces Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30.

10. FADE SCARS

Just because the pimple’s gone doesn’t mean it disappeared. Use a scar treatment with salicylic acid and licorice-root extract, like Clearasil Ultra Acne + Marks Spot Lotion, on dark spots to fade them over time.