[Medical Q&A] How to treat acne that keeps popping up?

Planner: Chinese Medical Association

Reviewer: Zhu Xuejun, Chief Physician, Peking University First Hospital

With the arrival of puberty, the active sex hormones increase the secretion of facial oil, and acne has become a problem for many teenagers. For oily skin, it is very important to choose the right cleansing products. It is recommended to use a foam-rich and gentle cleanser, or a sulfur soap with a pH (acidity) of 5 to 7 and less irritation to the skin. After cleansing, apply oil-control gel or lotion to maintain skin balance. Avoid using cleansing products that are too alkaline or contain bactericidal ingredients to avoid damaging the skin barrier and causing sensitive skin.

When it comes to acne-prone skin, choosing mild and non-irritating cleaning and skin care products is key, and moisturizing is equally important. For severe acne, you should seek medical attention in a timely manner. Drugs for treating acne may be irritating, such as retinoic acid creams, so be careful when using them. If discomfort occurs, wash immediately and adjust the interval between medications. If necessary, try acne-clearing products containing fruit acid or salicylic acid. At the same time, using soothing and moisturizing skin care products can help maintain the skin barrier and improve the skin's adaptability to treatment.