Benzoyl peroxide is an ingredient that helps kill bacteria and keep pores clean; however, it is recommended that you use a cleanser that has less than 2. 5%. When washing your face, let it sit on the skin for about 15 seconds before rinsing. This way, it will have enough time to penetrate your pores. [2] X Research source You can also use pads or leave-on creams with 2. 5% to 10% benzoyl peroxide. Salicylic acid is another common acne fighting ingredient. It works by helping get rid of dead skin cells on the skin, which often trap bacteria, causing breakouts. Salicylic acid is available in cleansers and other leave-on products. Products containing retinoids can help fight acne, especially blackheads and whiteheads. Most retinoids are available by prescription, but you can get some (such as adapalene gel) over-the-counter. Apply retinoids at night as they can make your skin sensitive to the sun, and be aware you may experience dryness and slight irritation at first. Tea tree oil is a natural product which can also work great for getting rid of pimples; however, be aware that it may not work as quickly as some other products, but is great if you prefer to stick with natural ingredients. You can buy this either as an oil, which you can dab on a pimple, or there are also washes that include tea tree oil you can use as a cleanser. [3] X Research source

These multi-step systems are often sold together in one box, and may be the best option for mild to moderate acne sufferers because not only do they cleanse the skin, they help clear up the conditions that cause acne in the first place.

If you are very focused on a pimple, try dabbing some tea tree oil on it. This way, you will feel like you’ve done something to deal with it, but you haven’t actually popped it. If you do pop a pimple, put a spot treatment on the pimple to disinfect it. These usually contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. You could also use tea tree oil, which is a natural disinfectant.

Splash some lukewarm water on your face and neck to get it wet. Squeeze a pea-size amount of your chosen cleanser into your hand, and smooth it all over your face. Use the tips of your fingers to gently rub your skin. Remember to get along your hairline and neck, too! Rinse and dry. After you have cleansed, you need to rinse very thoroughly. Make sure that you get all of the cleanser off of your face. Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel. Don’t rub your face! This can irritate your skin more. If you are using a multi-step system, be sure to follow the instructions carefully, and apply all of the steps in order, each time you use the products.

You don’t need to overdo it here, just apply a thin layer all of your face and neck. Applying too much could clog your pores. You should also apply moisturizer in the morning after rinsing, but before applying any other products. Try a moisturizer with sunscreen for daytime use.

You can clean your brushes at home by first rinsing the brushes under running, lukewarm water. Fill a small bowl with about one quarter cup of lukewarm water and mix in 1 teaspoon of baby shampoo. Swirl the bristles of your brush around in the soapy water, and use your fingers to gently massage the soapy water into the brush. Rinse the bristles thoroughly under running, lukewarm water. Pat the brush dry using a clean dry cloth, and then allow the brush to dry completely. Lay the brush on a counter top with the bristles hanging over the edge so that air can circulate throughout the brush.

If you do like to do each other’s makeup, then bring your own makeup with you.

You could also ask an older sibling or your mom if they have a bottle of face mask that you could borrow if you don’t have any money to buy it. A good acne-fighting mask can be made by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, one tablespoon of honey, one egg white, and a drop or two of an essential oil such as lavender or rosemary in a bowl. Mix the ingredients well, smooth the mask onto your face, let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Finish by applying an oil-free moisturizer.

Many spas offer programs designed specifically for teens, which may be shorter and/or less expensive.

If your parents find this strange, try to politely explain to them that you are having trouble with pimples, and you want to do anything you can to get rid of them, including keeping your bedding clean. Although this may seem like a hassle, it might make a huge difference, and sleeping on fresh sheets can often be very enjoyable.

Read a book, watch some TV, or go outside for a walk or run.

Don’t add sugar to your green tea if you can avoid it. This may counteract its benefits. If you need a bit of sweetener, try adding a small drop of honey. You can also try adding ice to your green tea.

Sweat can help keep your pores clean, and exercise can help reduce stress that may lead to breakouts. After exercising, you can take a shower to rinse the sweat off.

It’s ok to enjoy an ice cream every once in awhile, but eating or drinking dairy every day or every two days may increase your risk of breakouts. Talk to your doctor before you cut back too much on dairy — there are vitamins and minerals in dairy products that are essential to your health. Your doctor can help you strategize to make sure you get these vitamins elsewhere.

Again, remember that all things can be enjoyed every now and then. This isn’t a suggestion that you should never touch a piece of chocolate again. When you do eat some candy, really enjoy it. If you enjoy chocolate, try having a small piece of dark chocolate, which has antioxidants that are actually good for you (in small amounts). For example, if you buy a dark chocolate bar that is 100 grams, limit yourself to about a quarter of it (25 grams) at any one time.

There are many foods that have refined carbohydrates. For example, ice cream, white bread, cookies, cakes, crackers, bagels, pretzels, pizza, chips, etc. This is only a small sample of foods that contain refined carbohydrates. Basically, if a food has been processed (e. g. comes in a package on a shelf in a grocery store), it likely contains these refined carbs. Don’t worry too much though! You can still enjoy a slice of pizza every now and then, but try to stick with eating fresh foods, such as fruits and vegetables as much as possible.

The amount of water needed by a girl between the ages of nine and 12 is about seven glasses, or 1. 5 liters. [11] X Research source If you are 13 or over, this number goes up to eight to 10 glasses, or 2 liters. [12] X Research source