According to several reports, more than 20 million people in the U.S. alone will experience pimples at some time in their lives, which, when it occurs, can not only be an uncomfortable and painful condition but also affect the way you see yourself. In the meantime, if you are one of the more than 20 million women, men, or adolescents who are currently suffering from unsightly pimples, you should know that there are a few proven, simple ways to help clear your skin and regain your confidence using the following tips recommended by skin care specialists, professional dermatology associations, and more.

Keep Your Hair and Facial Skin Clean

In short, pimples, which are caused by acne, are a result of excessive buildup of oil and dead skin cells in the pores, which causes them to become clogged, thus resulting in small red bumps in the affected area or areas. Hence, one of the first steps to getting rid of pimples is to keep the skin on your face clean to prevent dead skin cells and oil from accumulating in your pores. Since acne can also occur on other parts of the body, including the back, shoulders, and chest, this tip also applies to those areas when trying to get rid of pimples. Like the skin, your hair also naturally contains oil, which can make its way down onto your face and into your pores, causing them to become clogged. Therefore, be sure to also keep your hair clean and off of your face to help clear up pimples.

Avoid Touching Your Face With Your Hands

Meanwhile, your hands often contain bacteria, which can also cause pimples to form on your skin. So try not to touch your face with your hands to help eliminate pimples. Skin experts warn that you should also avoid picking your pimples because it can cause them to become inflamed and also lead to scarring.

Consider Using an Acne Treatment

There are many over-the-counter acne treatments that are formulated with ingredients, such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and Sulphur, that are proven to help bust zits by drying them out. Therefore, if you are having a hard time keeping pimples at bay even after frequent washing your face and hair and avoiding touching your skin, you may consider also incorporating an over-the-counter acne treatment, such as pimple dots, into your daily regimen for additional acne-fighting power. However, just be sure to choose a product with active ingredients that are compatible with your skin type and breakout issue to avoid further discomfort. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, when trying acne products for the first time, it is important to give them several weeks or more to work, during which time it is not uncommon for your skin to become irritated or even worse before finally clearing up. Likewise, avoid applying too much of the acne treatment or using it in combination with similar products because it can also increase your skin’s sensitivity. You should also limit your exposure to the sun when treating your pimples because it may easily cause your skin to become burned.

Implement Lifestyle Changes

What you eat as part of your daily diet can also contribute to pimple breakouts. Therefore, it is recommended you consume a diet rich in whole grains, fresh fruit, and vegetables, which are known to promote good skin. It is also important to swap out your sheets and pillowcases for fresh, clean ones at least two times a week to prevent oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells from saturating them and causing acne breakouts. Stress can also bring on acne, so it is a good idea to also try to lead a calm life while battling pimples. And, as with any skin and bodily issue, regular exercise may also help by increasing circulation and improving blood flow, which is needed to help flush out your organs and pores for a healthy complexion. Overall, there are many ways to help get rid of pimples. However, for the best results, it is important to first determine the specific cause of your breakouts, which will help you choose the most effective treatment for you. In more severe cases, you may even be able to receive a clinical-strength acne prescription from your doctor.