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8 Clear Skin Secrets!

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posted on April 25, 2012 at 4:00 pm

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Achieving a bright and clear complexion may seem like an impossible feat, but here are 8 tried-and true tips that helped me stay in the clear.

1. Use a glycolic acid product. I can’t stress enough how beneficial this is to get beautiful, glowing skin. Try using a face wash with this main ingredient, or a moisturizer with glycolic acid. But not both at the same time! I absolutely love Peter Thomas Roth Glycolic Acid 10% Hydrating Gel. Since I’ve used it, I’ve noticed my skin looks noticeably brighter and smoother.

2. Sulfur is your friend! Although Benzoyl Peroxide is a strong ingredient for fighting acne, I’ve noticed that it can leave my skin red and irritated. A better option that works even stronger (In my opinion!) is sulfur. Dab a little bit on the blemish and it will reduce dramatically even in one night. Clearasil makes a great one that’s even tinted so it’s not obvious, and you can wear it during the day too.

3. Pick a foundation without Dimethicone. I had to find this out the hard way. I used to use Maybelline foundation and L’Oreal, and although it made my skin look flawless when I wore it, it made me break out. I researched why this was happening, and it turns out Dimethicone is used in a lot of drugstore foundations, and is a trigger for acne. Once I switched to an all-natural powder foundation, my skin cleared up dramatically. I use one by Mineral Fusion and the shade I wear is Olive 1.

4. Clean your makeup brushes! Bacteria and excess oil from your skin stays on these brushes, and can clog your pores, which cause breakouts. It’s so important to clean them regularly either with a gentle hand soap or specific brush cleaner. Also, clean your cell phone with antibacterial wipes and change your pillowcase often.

5. Exfoliate regularly. It’s important to slough off dead skin cells, so your skin is rejuvenated and fresh. I used to use St. Ives Apricot Scrub on my face for this until my dermatologist told me it’s too harsh. This is because the granules are too big, which can cause damage to the skin. The best one I’ve used to exfoliate is Uskincare Bamboo polish.

6.  Use Retin-A. If your skin is persistently breaking out and all else fails, make an appointment with a dermatologist and ask about Tretinoin, which is a Vitamin A product that helps banish bacteria. The great thing about this is you’ll notice a visible difference how much better your skin looks in just a short amount of time.

7. Take Minocycline. This is an anti-bacterial pill taken orally, and will really help with acne.

8. Wash your makeup off every night! You’ve heard this a zillion times, but it’s so crucial to let your skin get a chance to breathe from all the makeup. Plus it only takes two minutes. So no excuses!

Everyone’s skin is as unique as they are. Is there a product that you’ve tried that worked wonders for you? If so, what’s your skin type and what is it??

ALL COMMENTS 90

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  1. Posted by on March 13, 2011 at 05:40

    Hi Nicole- this article is really helpful, I struggle with acne and am always looking to read more about tips and what works. I’ll try out those products, a BIG thank you ! :-D

  2. Posted by on March 13, 2011 at 05:42

    I decided to try sulfur too since Benzoyl peroxide also made my skin irritated. Sulfur is way better in my opinion, and gets rid of a zit fast!! Nicole- a good vitamin supplement to take for helping stay clear is Zinc. It’s researched and is a proven acne-killer.

    • Project Inspired Member
      Posted by BrittNicoleHowWeRoll on September 14, 2012 at 15:37

      Wow, that’s awesome! :D I have been using sulfur too and taking zinc too! It’s been working really well.

  3. Posted by on March 13, 2011 at 05:43

    Your tips help so much. I’m going to do every single one :-)

  4. Posted by on March 13, 2011 at 05:46

    Nicole what specific face wash do you use? I use one by Neutrogena, and it hasn’t really helped make my skin any better. It’s the Oil-Free acne wash. I want to try something else, but don’t know where to start. Thanks!

    • Posted by Nicole on March 13, 2011 at 05:55

      Hi Aexa! What’s interesting is on a regular basis I just use Cetaphil, but every other day I also use Neutrogena’s grapefruit cleanser which has 2% Salicylic acid in it to keep my skin clear. I then apply the glycolic acid serum every other day, and use tretinoin 2x a week. Doing this regimen has made my skin look its best in a long time.

  5. Posted by on March 13, 2011 at 05:48

    Have you tried using a green clay mask? That helps my acne and I use it once a week. I forgot the name of the brand but you can get it at CVS or Walgreens, and its like 4$.

    • Posted by Nicole on March 13, 2011 at 05:57

      Hey Bethany~ I have tried that mask, although it did get rid of a pimple- I found that it was too drying for me. But do whatever is working for you!

  6. Posted by on March 13, 2011 at 05:49

    Breaking out sucks. I’m currently wearing Maybelline dream foundation and no wonder my skin isn’t improving. What type of face wash do you recommend, and where can I buy one that has glycolic acid in it?

  7. Posted by on March 13, 2011 at 05:50

    Thanks!! These suggestions are really good. :-)

  8. Posted by on March 14, 2011 at 10:49

    So helpful. I’m totally going to get your face wash!

  9. Posted by on March 19, 2011 at 23:41

    Hi! I used to use Benzoyl peroxide, and I HATED it. So, now I use Neutrogena Pink Grapefruit Acne Wash. It smells really good, and it washes all the oil and dirt off your face. It’s super effective!

    • sisterwhocares
      Posted by sisterwhocares on April 26, 2012 at 19:12

      It washes off oil? thats exactly what i need cuz i have super oily skin! I might use that with my doterra products (see previous comment)

      • DanieB
        Posted by DanieB on August 26, 2012 at 21:51

        Yep it does now in stores they have nutrogena grapefruit cleansing WIPES!! So at school when my face gets oily I just wipe my face with it and you see all the first and oil on the wipe! It cleans the trash out of your pores and it’s super refreshing!

  10. Posted by on March 26, 2011 at 17:12

    I think these tips are really great! All except for the daily antibiotic pill. I took these when I was younger, and they made me very sick because they end up destroying the friendly bacteria in your digestive system over time. So, I would stick to the great topical tips here :)

  11. Posted by on April 21, 2011 at 18:28

    Do you have any cleanser recommedations for dry sensitive skin? because that is the kind I have. Thanks!

    • Posted by Nicole on April 22, 2011 at 10:02

      Hey Erin- try Cetaphil. It’s very soothing, and also won’t make your skin too dry! Let me know how it goes. :-)

      • Project Inspired Member
        Posted by S.Michelle25 on January 6, 2013 at 18:21

        How much does the cetaphil cost? And what is it?

  12. Posted by on May 23, 2011 at 13:02

    this would really really healp me thankyou so much

  13. Posted by on May 24, 2011 at 16:59

    I just wanted to say my generic tube of Retin-A is a miracle in cream form. But a note to those who are going to/just started using it: for the first few weeks, it will actually make your skin peel, get red, and seem to aggravate and worsen the condition. That’s normal. Stay faithful every night no matter what, and after a while the peeling and redness will be gone, and the acne will begin its wondrous decline.

  14. Posted by on May 31, 2011 at 16:17

    I think it’s better to just get a damp cloth and sprinkle sugar on it than buy all those expensive products….AND it’s ALMOST free! ;)

  15. Posted by on June 2, 2011 at 07:35

    I actually use Walmart’s face wash- it works amazingly well, for me. Then again, I have an odd skin type, greasy sometimes, other times dry, so it may only work for me

  16. Posted by on June 4, 2011 at 14:56

    I don’t have acne, but I DO have some sorta comdition that gives me lil red bumps, but I’ve had them for a while, and I can’t get rid of them! And it acts up a LOT in winter……Any advice?

    • Posted by Nicole on June 5, 2011 at 17:56

      Hey Alli- It sounds like it could be eczema, or is it a rash? I would go see a dermatologist, they will definitely be able to prescribe you a cream that will make it go away!

  17. Posted by on June 6, 2011 at 15:53

    It’s not exima because it doesn’t itch….I’ve been to a dermatoligist and they gave me a greasy cream that doesn’t work. :(

    • Posted by Nicole on June 6, 2011 at 16:56

      explain to me again what it looks like- or if you want send me a picture at nicoleprojectinspired@gmail.com and I can figure it out better.

    • Project Inspired Member
      Posted by 247girlyattire on September 3, 2012 at 18:17

      Could it be strep rash? Like strep throat, but it is a rash. I had it last year and it popped back up a few times, but finally completely went away. I don’t remember what my dermatologist gave me, but you can do some research and suggest it to her.

  18. Posted by on June 9, 2011 at 15:47

    I would send you a pic, but I don’t know how to send it via E-Mail. It’s bumpy, red dots on my face, but it’s not acne. And it’s ALL OVER!

    • Posted by Nicole on June 9, 2011 at 18:28

      I think the best bet is to go to a dermatologist. I don’t know what that is, I struggled with acne instead. I promise the derm will know, and can prescribe you the right medication to make it go away!

    • sisterwhocares
      Posted by sisterwhocares on April 26, 2012 at 19:09

      it might psoriasis; is it scaly?

      • sisterwhocares
        Posted by sisterwhocares on April 26, 2012 at 19:10

        im sorry, it might *BE psoriasis

  19. Posted by on June 10, 2011 at 10:26

    They gave me some kinda oily stuff….it’s gross and it makes my face sticky..

    • Posted by Nicole on June 12, 2011 at 00:19

      Try to find out the name of it for me. Also, have you tried going on minocycline? that cleared up my skin!

  20. Posted by on June 16, 2011 at 12:13

    It’s called Cera Ve. They gave me the cleanser and the cream. Even when I use it for 3 months everday, it is still there……And they SAID it should be gone by now….And no, I haven’t tried Minocycline. Where can I get it?

    • Posted by Nicole on June 17, 2011 at 22:21

      You NEED to get minocycline, and a glycolic acid face wash. The minocycline is prescribed by a dermatologist so ask for a prescription!

  21. Posted by on June 18, 2011 at 11:38

    Okay..I’ll try…:) And does Neutrogena Grape fruit cleanser have glycolic acid in it?

    • Posted by Nicole on June 22, 2011 at 22:10

      no- but just google ‘glycolic acid cleansers and you’ll see them! They’re all about the same. :-)

  22. Posted by on June 18, 2011 at 20:57

    Thank you so much! I suffer with acne and this is very helpful. But one question.. Is there any foundation I can buy at the store for a good price without dimethicone?

    • Posted by Nicole on June 20, 2011 at 17:34

      There’s a great one called Mineral fusion sold at whole foods. It’s amazing!!

    • Project Inspired Member
      Posted by Elizabeth on April 30, 2012 at 14:28

      Walmart has one called “Physicians Formula.” It’s relatively cheap and works great :D

  23. Posted by on June 20, 2011 at 16:40

    OH MY GOODNESS! You are SOOOO mright about retin-A! It took away the bumps immiediatly!!!!!!!!!! THANK YOU FOR CURING ME OF MY PROBLEM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :D :D :D

  24. Posted by on July 3, 2011 at 18:43

    Hi Nicole :) i break out real bad and im really dark so acne leaves blemishes..i went to the doctor and he perscribed epiduo but that stuff made me start peeling so i stopped using it…i wanted to try proactive i read on the website that it takes 3months for that to work so my sister recomned for the darker skinned girls to use ambi…you can get that at like walmart and walgreens…im going to start using Neutrogena 3 step..hope it works :D

    • Posted by Nicole on July 5, 2011 at 22:51

      Have you tried Minocycline? It’s amazing and it cleared up my skin! Also ask the derma for Tretinoin cream, it really works!

  25. Posted by on July 24, 2011 at 19:57

    I don’t know if it really works, but for me, after I cry my skin usually seems brighter and clearer, I assume it’s because my body is getting rid of extra salt.

    • Posted by Nicole on July 25, 2011 at 10:59

      hmm that’s really interesting!

      • Posted by on August 18, 2011 at 20:50

        Haaha, No offense, but I’d rather not cry everytime I have a pimple! LOL! :D

  26. Posted by on September 17, 2011 at 09:47

    I’ve been struggling with acne since about sixth grade, and I’m about ready to give up. I used proactive, but it barely helped with my acne, it just made my skin dry and irritated. Most make-up makes me break out, and a lot of face washes just dry out or irritate my skin. Recently, I’ve been using a facial mask by Avon and it actually doesn’t irritate my skin. If it doesn’t work, maybe one of these tricks will help me. Thank you for posting this! :)

  27. Posted by on November 1, 2011 at 15:05

    I have fair skin that isn’t oily and actually more on the dry side, and I’ve started using Neutrogena Clear Pore Daily Scrub. I use it every morning and night, it has 3.5% Benzoyl Peroxide and little beads. I used to have awful breakouts and this works wonders. :)

  28. olburrows
    Posted by olburrows on April 25, 2012 at 18:54

    Currently I am on a acne pill called “Isotretinoin.” The process is quite annoying and very specific, but well worth it. There are many possible side effects that could happen and things to be aware of, but so far it has worked wonders! I have had terrible acne all thoughout high school and my Dermatologist has prescribed me with many different things. This was my last option, and I am so glad it is finally clearing up! It feels great to look fairly normal again! I have light or fair skin by the way…

  29. Project Inspired Member
    Posted by sarah.sg on April 25, 2012 at 20:33

    I have had acne for over 7 years now and have been to the doctors, but nothing seems to work! Do you know if these tips will help with red scarring or indents? Mirco. didnt seem to help sadly because of the mix between acne/red dots/scares.

  30. Project Inspired Member
    Posted by poochker on April 26, 2012 at 12:25

    I use a lot of Neutrogena, and my dermatologist reccomended it. Also, my dermatologist reccomneded Aveeno lotion, which is good too.

  31. Project Inspired Member
    Posted by onedirection365 on April 26, 2012 at 13:43

    thanks

  32. sisterwhocares
    Posted by sisterwhocares on April 26, 2012 at 19:07

    Have you heard of the company Doterra? they have many essential oils products and some of these products are for skincare. I recommend Doterra clearskin foaming face wash and clearskin topical blend. the essential oils in the products are gentle for people with sensitive skin and really make your face feel clean. I use it regularly and it really helps clear up my super oily skin!

  33. Paris
    Posted by Paris on April 27, 2012 at 21:02

    Great tips. Something that also works great is Cetaphil!

  34. Project Inspired Member
    Posted by kayla.hb13 on April 28, 2012 at 06:03

    Minocycline is fantastic! I need to go back to my derm to get my prescription renewed!

  35. farmgirl101
    Posted by farmgirl101 on April 29, 2012 at 18:32

    would sulfar in the wateri use help too?

  36. Project Inspired Member
    Posted by lizziedee on April 29, 2012 at 21:57

    I use the Neutrogena complete acne kit. The face wash has those little scrub bead things that get rid if dead skin, and it works really well. My friends have even noticed!! but i have skin that gets dried out easily. so i use it only every other day before bed, otherwise my skin gets flaky in some areas, but nothing a bit of lotion cant fix! Whenever im not using Neutrogena though, i use CeraVe moisture wash or another kind that i cant remember what it is called. it really has done a lot. im going through those teen years where acne is coming at me full force, and it has reduced the size and frequency and amount of the acne. i love it, though it hasnt cured my acne.

  37. Project Inspired Member
    Posted by Elizabeth on April 30, 2012 at 14:24

    Thanks for these tips! I found out about the dimethicone from one of your articles awhile back and switching to a natural foundation has helped SO much.

    Tea Tree Oil is also very helpful. Once you feel a pimple coming just put it on and it usually goes away within 12 hours. It also helps clear already existing pimples faster. It’s a natural alternative to Benzoyl Peroxide. The bottle is 8$ and can be found in the vitamin isle at Walmart, it lasts a long time, all you need is a little bit on a Q tip :)

  38. SunComesSmiling09
    Posted by SunComesSmiling09 on May 6, 2012 at 17:51

    I’m using a proactive product and so far all it’s done was make my face dry and REALLY itchy!!! I might try and consider this stuff :D Thanks!

  39. Project Inspired Member
    Posted by joyfulllarissa on May 9, 2012 at 09:47

    I’m blessed with naturally clear skin on my face… but my back needs some clearing up

    • Project Inspired Member
      Posted by ApphiaRose on May 11, 2012 at 08:24

      me too! :( I’ve used Alba Botanical’s bacne scrub before, and it worked really well (I just need to buy some more!) Maybe this would help?

  40. Project Inspired Member
    Posted by whiterain112 on May 10, 2012 at 17:24

    Origins Oil-free face-wash is amazing!! It is 100% organic and I have had only three pimples since I started using it last year!!!!!

  41. Project Inspired Member
    Posted by ApphiaRose on May 11, 2012 at 08:22

    Hey! Thanks for posting this stuff. I’ve had acne since I was 12 and even though I eat right, drink plenty of water, change my pillowcase often, only use mineral powder and I’ve tried numerous all-natural skin care regimes, I still, at 16, have acne. It’s hereditary! :( But lately I’ve been using Burt’s Bees acne wash and lotion, along with Hydrogen Peroxide as my toner. It’s working fabulous! :) Also, I’ve heard that a natural alternative to Retin-A is Rose Hip Seed Oil. It has the same compounds and works faster… I haven’t tried that yet, but many people are saying it really helps! Homeopathic sulfur tablets work wonderfully, too! Thanks again, Nicole! :D

  42. Project Inspired Member
    Posted by miss mili on May 18, 2012 at 20:45

    thamks alot nicloe i have acne and this really helped alot god bless you!

  43. SunshineGirl
    Posted by SunshineGirl on May 24, 2012 at 18:13

    Bookmarked

  44. Project Inspired Member
    Posted by SarahKatie on May 24, 2012 at 18:34

    Where can I find makeup that doesn’t have dimethicone but isn’t too expensive? I usually get my makeup (I use covergirl foundation) from Target, and every single brand that I saw there had dimethicone in it.

  45. Project Inspired Member
    Posted by RyleighGiraffe on July 9, 2012 at 19:39

    I use toothpaste.

  46. HurricaneMurphGirl
    Posted by HurricaneMurphGirl on September 3, 2012 at 09:43

    Something that is super weird but helpful is using this spray that is actually for my newborn sister’s bottom. BEFORE you freak, it is all natural, and one of the first ingredients is witchazel. If you can find an all natural product that has this in it, it might help. This spray clears up my breakouts almost overnight!

  47. Rbubbles
    Posted by Rbubbles on September 3, 2012 at 11:25

    I’ve been looking around for some quality information like this to get rid of acne! Thank you so so much! I’ll definitly try some of these… Number 1 is already completed :)

    • Posted by Nicole on September 3, 2012 at 13:12

      you’re so welcome! I will also write a follow up article soon about keeping your skin clear! :-)

  48. Livelikeurdying
    Posted by Livelikeurdying on September 3, 2012 at 15:35

    This is SOO helpful!

  49. Project Inspired Member
    Posted by S.eluzai on September 3, 2012 at 16:03

    Hey Nicole! Thanks so much for the tips! They’re super helpful (: I have a question though, do you know how to get rid of dark spots from pimples. I usually don’t grow many because I am a freak when it comes to taking care of my face, but whenever I do get pimples they leave a mark. :( Do you know what I can do to make that go away?

  50. kara719
    Posted by kara719 on September 3, 2012 at 16:04

    I am in cosmetology school and so I learned that Retin-A is bad. It’s a skin-thinning exfoliating drug that can cause peeling and inflammation.

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