When we're under attack from blemishes, finding ways to clear up our skin can seem really difficult. Let’s be honest, skincare can be super annoying at times. This is even more true when there seems to be constant problems with our skin. Of course, this bad behavior of our skin always seems to happen when we have an important date, a wedding to attend, or a big party to throw. Like our skin just knows. How many times have we begged and prayed to solve a problem overnight? Well, it's easier than people think.
I suffered from severe acne in 7th and 8th grade, and once that passed, I was sure I would be free of this affliction forever. Unfortunately, this is not the case. While I don't exactly have the horrible breakouts I used to have, I definitely get a few spots here and there. Luckily, along the way, I've picked up a few tricks for fighting those pesky breakouts—some of which can even give us the results we're so desperately seeking, overnight.
One might ask, how did I learn to manage my skin? After college, I worked in a dermatologist's office for a short time, and it was one of the greatest things I could have done for my skin (and now, your skin!). I tactfully engage in daily conversations with doctors to glean tips on mastering skin care. As I mentioned, I definitely can't say that my skin has blemishes everywhere, but I can say that I know how to manage them.
Here are eight tips to help cleanse your skin at night and help your skin look as young and vibrant as possible.
1. Be sure to wash your face before going to bed
I can't tell you how many times I've had a friend or family member tell me that they don't wash their face regularly before bed. They often wonder why their skin is prone to breakouts. Admittedly, I do this sometimes, especially after a night out drinking (which is also usually when I wear the most makeup - my poor pores!).
Washing your face before bed helps unclog pores and dissolve built-up residue. It also helps remove excess oil. NowItCounts.com beauty and grooming editor Marco Medrano says washing your face before bed not only helps fight acne, it can also make your skin look younger. This is a major benefit if I do say so myself. If you often jump into bed and are too lazy to get up and wash your face, consider keeping a face towel on your bedside table.
Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser, $5.94, Amazon
Simply Clean Facial Wipes, $3.69, Amazon
2. Gently exfoliate the skin
If you've realized that you haven't exfoliated in a while (or maybe a really, really long time), now's the time, girlfriend! According to dermatologist Dr. Hadley King, we should exfoliate once or twice a week, depending on skin type and weather. Exfoliate more during the warmer months and less frequently during the winter, when skin tends to be drier, says Dr. King. The purpose of exfoliation is to remove the top layer of dead skin and reveal new skin underneath. For successful exfoliation, try using an exfoliating facial scrub and gently applying it to your skin with a washcloth, or use an exfoliating facial brush or sponge.
Aveeno Positively Radiant Brightening Daily Scrub, $6.50, Amazon
Olay Facial Brush ProX, $21.19, Amazon
3. Use the right moisturizer
I've always felt that using moisturizer was an unnecessary step in skincare, especially since my skin has always tended to be on the oily side. However, dermatologists agree that moisturizer is the key to energized skin. It makes your skin softer, more elastic and helps with essential hydration, ultimately helping to prevent and reduce breakouts. Oh, and be sure to choose a moisturizer that's right for your skin type.
CeraVe Skin Renewal Night Cream, $14, Amazon
4. Make a face mask with oatmeal
Your face will feel incredible after using a refreshing, non-pore-clogging mask. There are many types of store-bought face masks you can consider trying, but there are also some super easy masks you can make at home that work great. For example, according to LIVESTRONG, an oatmeal mask is simple and effective. It can be made by just preparing ordinary oatmeal and cooling it to room temperature. After cooling, apply to face and let dry for about 15 minutes. Then, rinse with warm water. Another option? If you have baking soda readily available, mix it with water until it forms a paste and use it to cover your entire face. Once dry, rinse off with warm water.
Old Fashioned Quaker Oats, $2.68, Amazon
Arm & Hammer Baking Soda, $4.95, Amazon
5. Get the Benefits of Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has so many benefits for our bodies, but did you know it’s also great for fighting acne? According to NoSkinProblems.com, aloe vera has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is very effective at clearing up acne and helping to fade acne scars. Add a little aloe vera to the blemish and leave it on for about an hour. Then rinse with warm water and you should see visible results.
Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera Gel, $8.45, Amazon
6. Try toothpaste
Similar to the aloe vera method, using toothpaste as a topical treatment can work wonders. I personally use this method all the time, and I promise—while it definitely stings a little the first time you apply it—it dries out the blemishes. Use non-gel toothpaste and apply to the area before bed. Leave it on overnight and wash it off when you wake up before washing your face. While the blemish may not completely disappear, you should notice that its appearance has shrunk, and you may notice less redness.
Aquafresh Toothpaste, $6.49, Amazon
7. Steam your skin
To open and clear your pores, you may want to take a steam bath. Boil a pot of water and once it's done, remove your face from the stove and allow the steam to reach your skin. You will feel refreshed immediately. The steam will instantly open up those clogged pores... Goodbye, man!
Secura Nano Ion Facial Steamer, $35, Amazon
8. No matter how tempting it is, don’t pick or pop
Are there some pimples that are really bothering you and you want them to disappear as soon as possible? Well, attacking and nitpicking them doesn't help your cause. In fact, according to Allure , this can actually cause inflammation and scarring. Get this...it can also lead to more acne. Instead, try some of the other tips above for safer, faster, and overall more effective results.
By using the tips mentioned here, you can fight patchy breakouts easily and quickly. Remember to continue taking proper care of your skin on a regular basis to ensure the frequency and severity of breakouts are reduced and your skin looks young and fresh.
Image: Pexels (1); (1); artbystevejohnson,thecampbells,katerha,armydre2008,slippyd,indi,orinrobertjohn/Flickr
