Limit the time you spend showering or bathing. Overexposure to water can dry out skin and cause damage. Try to take warm, rather than hot, showers and baths. [1] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Avoid harsh soaps. Strongly acidic soaps and detergents can dry out skin and remove oils. Stick to mild cleansers without many added ingredients and chemicals. [2] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Pat your skin dry with a towel after bathing. This allows moisture to remain on your skin. Rubbing can dry out and irritate skin. [3] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Moisturize. Get a mild, non-scented daily moisturizer and use it after showers and exercise and also before bed if the weather is dry or cold or if your skin tends to get dry. Pick a brand that contains SPF for added protection against the sun for daytime hours. [4] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Wet your hands with clean water and add soap. Lather your hands and then scrub for about 20 seconds. It can help to hum the “Happy Birthday” song twice to keep track of time. Make sure to wash between your fingers, under your fingernails, and the backs of your hands. [5] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Rinse your hands under clean, running water and then dry them with a towel. [6] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Use sunscreen. Look for a brand of at least SPF 30. If you’re going to be out in the sun for a day, reapply sunscreen every two hours. [9] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Sunlight is most damaging between 10 a. m. and 2 p. m. During this timeframe, seek shade and wear protective clothing like hats, scarves, and long-sleeved shirts. [10] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
When considering treatment options, talk to your doctor or dermatologist. They can recommend an over-the-counter cream or prescription medications considering your skin type and medical history. You may need to try several different products before you find one that’s effective for you. [11] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Certain lifestyle changes can help with acne as well. Try to wear less makeup during breakouts, as this can lengthen their duration. Always wash your face after exercise. Try to avoid having your hair, hats, or clothing come into contact with your face as this can trap sweat leading to breakouts. You should never pop pimples or pick at zits. This can cause scarring. [12] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
A diet rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and zinc can help improve skin. Foods that include these vitamins and minerals include citrus fruits, strawberries, tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, fortified dairy products and cereals, red meats, seafood, and orange and yellow vegetables. [14] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Get healthy proteins as this can also improve skin. Beans, eggs, milk, yogurt, tofu, soy products, and nuts are all excellent sources of protein. [15] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Drink enough water. Many teens consume a lot of caffeinated beverages but don’t get enough pure, plain water. Aim for between nine and 13 cups a day. [16] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Ideally, you should get one hour or more of physical activity most days of the week. This can help improve your skin. If you do not have the time or stamina to work out for a full hour, try breaking up physical activity into smaller chunks. Work for half an hour in the morning and then another half hour at night. [17] X Research source Always drink plenty of water when working out. This can help make up for the fluid lost during a workout. [18] X Research source
Practice yoga or meditation. Both practices are designed to keep your mind in the present moment and can reduce overall stress. See if there are any yoga or meditation classes available in your area. You can also find guided yoga and meditation classes online. [19] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source If you have trouble managing stress, ask your parents to help you make an appointment with a therapist. A good therapist can help you find effective means to cope with anxiety and stress. Your general doctor should be able to find you a referral for a therapist in your area. [20] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Talk to your doctor or dermatologist about options for skin products if you think you are having reactions to certain products.
