Acne: Prevention

There are no sure ways to prevent acne, but the following steps may be taken to minimize flare-ups:

• gentle washing of affected areas once or twice every day
• avoid abrasive cleansers
• use noncomedogenic makeup and moisturizers
• shampoo often and wear hair off face
• eat a well-balanced diet, avoiding foods that trigger flare-ups
• unless told otherwise, give dry pimples a limited amount of sun exposur
• do not pick or squeeze blemishes
• reduce stress

— Mercedes McLaughlin