Not all skin types are the same, but all are susceptible to acne. The term "light skin" generally indicates a pale complexion, with a very tenuous tone, typical of the Caucasian and East Asian populations. Just like people with other skin types (dry, oily, or combination), fair-skinned individuals can also suffer from acne. If you fall into this category, you should choose the treatment based on the type of pimples you have and the one that works best for your complexion. Work with your dermatologist to find the most suitable treatments for your situation.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Treating Inflammatory and Comedonic Acne
Step 1. Recognize comedonic and / or inflammatory acne
It manifests itself as a series of small white spots caused by sebum and dead skin cells blocking the pores. Inflammatory acne represents the phase following the comedonic one, during which the black and white points become inflamed, surround themselves with a red halo, and pimples and red wheals form.
Comedones are usually more common on the chin, nose and forehead
Step 2. Try oral antibiotics
They are very effective because they reduce inflammation caused by bacteria living on the skin. However, some may not work if resistance has been built up to them; in that case, the doctor will change the prescription.
Side effects of oral antibiotics include stomach pain and dizziness. One of the reactions that most worries fair-skinned patients is an increased sensitivity to sunlight
Step 3. Try benzoyl peroxide
It is available in the form of topical lotion, creams and gels. It is an effective product to combat mild and moderate acne because it promotes the replacement of the superficial layer of the epidermis.
- When applied, benzoyl peroxide breaks down into benzoic acid and oxygen, both of which are toxic to pimple-causing bacteria.
- Treat affected areas with this product after washing your face with a mild cleanser and warm water. You should apply it twice a day or as directed by the dermatologist.
- Common side effects are mild skin irritation, tingling and dryness. Typically, these reactions are more severe if you already have dry skin.
Step 4. Use a cleanser with salicylic acid
Products containing this active ingredient are very useful against comedonic acne and are available without a prescription. Salicylic acid clears the pores and slows the detachment of skin cells.
This product guarantees maximum effectiveness when used regularly, but read the instructions carefully so as not to abuse it and not incur irritation
Step 5. Try topical retinoid ointments
These vitamin A derivatives are effective acne treatments that have been used for over thirty years. Creams with retinoids reduce the number of white and blackheads, preventing the hair follicles from becoming clogged with dead cells and sebum.
- They are available as topical pimple treatments (in the form of lotions, ointments, and creams) and are associated with mild side effects, such as skin irritation, burning, and mild peeling.
- Various retinoid products include tretinoin (Retin-A), tazarotene (Zorac) and adapalene (Differin).
- Apply topical retinoid treatment as directed by the dermatologist. It generally begins by spreading the product three times a week, in the evening, and then moving on to daily applications, as the skin gets used to the active ingredient.
- If you have sensitive skin or sunburn, which is very common in fair-skinned people, you are more likely to experience side effects; in this case, contact the dermatologist.
Step 6. Find out about a combination treatment
Retinoids and antibiotics can be used in combination to treat severe cases of comedonic and / or inflammatory acne. Topical retinoids are applied in the evening and antibiotics taken in the morning; in this way, a double action is obtained against the sebum and the bacteria that cause pimples.
- The dermatologist may also advise you to combine antibiotic treatment with a benzoyl peroxide cream.
- He may also prescribe topical antibiotics. These are usually already combined with retinoids or benzoyl peroxide for convenience of use.
Step 7. Do not wear makeup or hair gel, as they can make the situation worse
A thick layer of make-up and styling products can aggravate acne. As the skin naturally produces sebum throughout the day, makeup and gel residues move onto the skin and clog the pores.
- Apply only a light coat or consider not wearing any makeup at all in a few days. Eliminate all traces of cosmetics before going to bed (read the advice in the last section of the article).
- Choose oil-free and non-comedogenic products. Water-based or mineral-based ones are usually a good solution.
Method 2 of 4: Treating Hormonal Acne
Step 1. Learn about oral contraceptives (for women only)
Menstrual-related hormonal fluctuations often cause changes in sebum production and skin alkalinity; as a result, hormonal acne occurs. Oral contraceptives help regulate progesterone and estrogen levels, the imbalance of which can lead to acne.
- The combined pill which contains both estrogen and progesterone is effective against these dermatological disorders; some trade names are: Cerazette, Estinette, Eve and Fedra.
- Overweight or smoking women should not take oral contraceptives due to the risk of developing blood clots and stroke.
Step 2. Ask for spironolactone
It is a drug used to treat acne, especially in patients who are past adolescence. Its action consists in reducing the amount of sebum produced by the glands by blocking the hormone aldosterone.
- Spironolactone was originally used in the control of hypertension and congestive heart failure. Its effectiveness against pimples was discovered during clinical trials, when patients reported a decrease in acne. Although it is not a dermatological drug, many doctors prescribe it as an off-label medicine.
- Its side effects are dizziness, increased urination and breast pain.
Method 3 of 4: Treating Cystic Acne
Step 1. Recognize cystic acne
This is the most serious case and manifests itself with uncontrolled and infected pimple outbreaks. Cystic acne tends to recur in various members of the same family and begins during puberty, leaving scars.
- The pimples associated with this pathology are raised, red and affect the deep layers of the skin. They can get very large and penetrate deeply.
- They often don't look like white spots.
- Sufferers perceive their presence before they become visible and always feel pain in the affected area.
Step 2. Ask for photodynamic therapy
It is an outpatient treatment that the dermatologist performs by applying drugs that are activated with light or laser. In this way, the sebaceous glands shrink, limiting the production of sebum responsible for the formation of pimples.
- The dermatologist covers the areas to be treated with a photosensitive ointment that is left to absorb by the skin for at least 30 minutes, up to three hours. Afterward, you are asked to sit under a lamp or undergo a laser session to dry and shrink the sebaceous glands. Usually, three to five sessions are required with a break of a few weeks between them.
- This therapy is effective for treating existing acne and as a preventative maintenance treatment.
Step 3. Try the photopneumatic treatment with Isolaz
This is a laser therapy that targets the bacteria responsible for acne. It is performed in the clinic and during the session the dermatologist uses an instrument with a strong suction power to eliminate any residue from the pores, cleaning them in depth; afterwards, laser therapy is done to kill the bacteria.
- It is a non-invasive, outpatient procedure that has two effects: it cleans the pores and kills the bacteria that cause pimples.
- Ask your dermatologist if you are a good candidate for this therapy.
Step 4. Treat cystic acne with isotretinoin
This is a very strong prescription drug that can eliminate acne that could cause scarring. It is used in extreme situations due to its many side effects.
- Isotretinoin is available as a topical cream or oral tablet. The dermatologist will assess the condition of the skin, the severity of the acne and recommend the best product for your case.
- Potential side effects are dry, cracked skin, difficulty in healing wounds, liver damage, increased triglyceride levels, depression, and irritable bowel syndrome. Due to the severity and number of adverse reactions, a risk assessment is generally required.
- Women must have a negative pregnancy test result before getting the medicine, because it has a teratogenic effect; in addition, they need to use two types of contraception.
- If you experience any side effects, call your dermatologist and ask if you need to make any changes to your care.
Method 4 of 4: Cleanse and Exfoliate the Skin
Step 1. Wash your face
The daily skincare regimen should begin and end with a face wash. Use a specific, mild cleanser and warm water to remove impurities, sebum and bacteria.
- While hygiene is important, remember that too much washing can irritate acne blemishes and make them even more red. Do not wash your face excessively and do not use a rough cloth which can worsen the condition of the skin.
- Choose a neutral cleanser (such as Cetaphil, Aveeno or a specific product) and use it twice a day. If you notice any signs of irritation, discontinue use and try something alternative.
- You can find more details in this wikiHow article.
Step 2. Protect your skin from the sun
The fair complexion must be particularly protected from damage from the sun's rays. Apply an oil-free sunscreen that has a minimum SPF of 30 daily. You should follow this advice even if you stay indoors for most of the day. Many acne products increase skin sensitivity to the sun, causing redness and sunburn that make the rash worse. Additionally, exposing yourself to the sun without adequate protection increases the risk of skin cancer and aging.
- Consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and long dresses to add another layer of protection.
- Avoid going out during the hours when the sun's rays are most intense, between 10:00 and 16:00.
Step 3. Exfoliate your skin twice a week
This procedure removes dead skin cells and debris that have accumulated on the skin and are blocking the pores. Just like excessive washing, too frequent exfoliation can irritate the epidermis; for this reason, limit yourself to two or three sessions per week.
- After washing your face, apply a small amount of the product and rub it into the skin in circular motions. Avoid exfoliating around the eyes. Rinse your face and pat it dry.
- Don't use harsh products and don't apply too much pressure, as this will only irritate the skin.
- Ask your dermatologist for advice on the best exfoliating product for your skin type.
- To find out more, read this article.
Step 4. Apply an acne treatment product (if applicable)
If your dermatologist has prescribed or recommended a pimple cream (such as benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, or tretinoin cream), apply it to the affected area.
- Use only small amounts according to the instructions on the package or those of your doctor.
- If you are trying therapy for the first time, pay attention to signs of skin irritation. If you experience slight discomfort (burning or pain), this may be a normal reaction and should resolve in a short time. However, if you show more lasting or severe signs, such as pain, severe burning or a rash, stop taking it immediately and contact your doctor.
Step 5. Apply an oil-free moisturizer
To carry out your daily routine, moisturize your skin to avoid dryness and irritation.
- It is important to use a specific product for fair skin and acne problems. Oily moisturizers clog pores and make breakouts of pimples worse.
- Ask your dermatologist for advice on the most suitable moisturizer for your skin. If you are trying a new cream, pay attention to signs of irritation (redness, dryness, greasiness or burning); if so, you should switch to another moisturizer.
Advice
- Effective treatments for people with oily or dry skin may not work for those with fair skin. For this reason, it is important to ask your dermatologist for advice, in order to find the best solution for you.
- If the therapy you are trying does not lead to improvement within a few weeks or months, see your dermatologist. It may take several tries to find the right remedy for your skin type.
- Learn about acne treatments. The fundamental pillars of any treatment are hygiene and good skin care. When these aren't enough to manage the disorder, your dermatologist may recommend topical or systemic medications based on the type of acne afflicting you.
Warnings
- Make sure you don't use products that contain ingredients you are allergic to. Contact your doctor if you experience skin irritation.
- Avoid topical acne medications from coming into contact with your eyes and mouth. Wash your hands immediately after applying them.
- If you are pregnant or could be pregnant, tell your doctor before using medicines. Many acne products are unsafe in pregnancy, and there are alternatives for your situation.
