Health Conditions / Skin Health / Acne

Keke Palmer raised an all-too-common question in an Instagram video yesterday: Why don’t we have a cure for adult acne yet? More specifically, the 28-year-old actor wants to know why plastic surgeons—who, admittedly, perform very involved procedures all the time—haven’t fixed this issue.“Good morning, y’all. I was just thinking about the fact that plastic surgeons are amazing,” Palmer said to her 11.2 million followers. “Okay, they can give you a boob job, above the muscle, under the muscle, liposuction, tummy tuck, BBL, they can even implant muscles—I mean the list goes on. But they cannot figure out how to clear up somebody’s skin. Are you kidding me?”The Nope star then proposed a… skin transplant of sorts: “All of these years and all of these inventions—you can’t figure out how to take the beautiful skin from my ass and put it on my face? I’m tired of it. I’m done with it. People out here with adult acne are struggling and you ain’t figured out that cure? I’m done.”Palmer has spoken out about her acne in the past: In a 2020 post, she said it was a symptom of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder, and encouraged her fans also struggling with adult acne to “know you’re not alone”.Instagram contentThis content can also be viewed on the site it originates from.In yesterday’s post, she also urged the medical community to do something, writing, “All these years!! Plastic surgeons, y’all wanna know where the real money at? IN CLEARING UP ACNE. Enough with all the hard work of having to find the PERFECT diet and trying to get an expensive facial every other day. Give us the plastic surgery we’re begging for, and make it possible for Black skin as well…I need the dual love.”

If you’re thinking about cutting ties with your contraception, you’re probably asking yourself a very important question: What should I expect when stopping birth control? Kudos to you for thinking ahead. Knowing what to expect can take some of the anxiety out of making any big change that affects your body.Because all forms of birth control come with potential side effects, there’s no one-size-fits-all experience for stopping or switching your current form of contraception. However, the type of birth control—hormonal versus nonhormonal—will likely play a large role. For example, if you have a copper intrauterine device (IUD), a popular form of nonhormonal contraception, removed, you may not notice many changes beyond some cramping and spotting after removal, SELF previously reported.Stopping hormonal birth control—including birth control pills, most IUDs, the implant, the patch, the injection, and the ring—typically can cause more changes, according to the Cleveland Clinic. And these changes really depend on the person and the exact form of birth control they use. To really understand what might go down, it’s best to talk to your prescribing clinician, whether that be your primary care doctor or your ob-gyn, as they’ll be most familiar with your personal health history. But generally, here are ten things to keep on your radar when you stop hormonal birth control.1. Your hormones will probably start to fluctuate.This probably isn’t very shocking—all of the changes included in this list happen because of hormonal changes that occur when going off birth control. For context, there are two main types of hormonal birth control: combined and progestin-only. Combined birth control contains two hormones, estrogen (which suppresses ovulation) and progestin (a synthetic form of the naturally-occurring hormone progesterone, which thickens the mucus in the cervix so sperm have a harder time entering the uterus). Progestin also thins the lining of the uterus, which helps prevent an egg from implanting, according to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG). Progestin-only birth control only contains progestin—no estrogen.In most cases, it doesn’t take very long for your hormones to fluctuate when you stop either form of birth control, Jennifer Kickham, MD, an ob-gyn at the Massachusetts General Hospital, tells SELF. Without hormonal birth control, your natural hormonal processes will eventually resume. Typically, ovulation starts within a couple of weeks after you stop using hormonal birth control pills, the patch, an IUD, or the ring, according to the experts at the

“But of course, there are many other things that people are using red light for, and the evidence for those applications is not as strong,” adds Dr. Baron. Namely, its use strictly for anti-aging purposes. “There have been some preliminary studies that show that this type of light has some effects on cells known as fibroblasts.8 These are the cells that produce collagen, so we know that red light has some beneficial effects in terms of promoting the growth of and maintaining healthy collagen in your skin,” says Dr. Baron.Proponents say you will see some skin-enhancing effects with red light therapy, but as with most skin rejuvenation treatments, most visible results will be temporary. “This is not going to stop the clock,” says Dr. Baron. But that’s why regular use is recommended, either in an office, spa, or at home. “The results you get from red light therapy work cumulatively, additively, and synergistically,” says Dr. Jagdeo. In other words, if you’re looking to achieve smoother skin and see a reduction in fine lines, you’ll need to keep up your sessions so that each one builds onto and supports the other; then over time—usually in a matter of weeks or months—you should start to see noticeable changes, according to the experts we talked to.I hear it’s safe, but what side effects of red light therapy should I expect?Yes, all of our experts agree: Red light therapy is generally safe. The great thing about red light therapy is that it’s noninvasive and, when used properly, does not damage the skin. (Improper use can damage skin, though—see “How often can you use red light therapy?” below for more.) Side effects are minimal and downtime, which is sometimes necessary with common skin laser treatments, is nonexistent. “In an office treatment, you might feel a little bit of stinging when using a photosensitizer with the light, but for most people, you might feel your skin get warm, and maybe you’ll look red right after the treatment, but that should go away in a day or two,” says Dr. Baron.Also unlike some lasers, people of all skin tones and types can undergo this kind of treatment, say our experts. “I conducted research that was funded by the NIH that looked at red light therapy and its safety amongst different skin types. We found that with short treatment times—30 minutes or less—there was no concern with redness or hyperpigmentation,” says Dr. Jagdeo. Once you start trending up towards much longer treatment times, though, then the risk for those issues increases.”9That said, if you know you’re easily prone to hyperpigmentation, you might want to talk to your dermatologist for help with choosing a home device, says Dr. Lamb. “If a patient came to me who was prone to pigmentation, I probably would recommend that they avoid getting a device that rests directly on their face and instead stick to ones that are held away from your skin.”The bottom line is that when done correctly: “Red light therapy is something that’s safe and very manageable for the average adult,” says Dr. Baron. When used medically for treatment of actinic keratosis, the cost of photodynamic therapy may be covered by insurance, but don’t expect your insurance to cover it for acne, rosacea, or skin rejuvenation. Out-of-pocket prices vary depending on treatment area and office locations, though they typically fall between $35 to $400 a session.So red light therapy at home is safe and effective, too?Yes, in-home devices are as safe to use as in-office ones, according to our experts. Remember though, the devices used in a medical office will be bigger and emit more energy than those you can use at home, says Dr. Baron, so at-home ones will be milder, which means you may not see the kind of results you might get from an office visit. That said, “these less powerful home devices can be safely used more frequently, without any redness,” says Dr. Baron.

Even if you only dabble in skin care, you’ve likely seen vitamin C serum touted as a beneficial beauty product. But what does vitamin C do for your skin, exactly? In short: Vitamin C is a “potent antioxidant” that can potentially help brighten dark spots, aid in smoothing fine lines, and neutralize skin-harming free radicals from the environment, including pollution and U.V. radiation, Sara Hogan, MD, board-certified dermatologist and fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, tells SELF.Before you run out and buy the first delightfully orange serum you see, though, there are some important things to consider, as not all vitamin C products are created equal. Depending on the product’s specific formulation and your personal skin needs, vitamin C can even be irritating or finicky in some cases, Angela Lamb, MD, board-certified dermatologist and director of Westside Mount Sinai Dermatology Faculty Practice, tells SELF.But don’t let that deter you from giving this impressive, science-backed ingredient a try. Keep reading to find out why and how you should incorporate a vitamin C serum into your skin-care routine.What does vitamin C do for your skin? | Vitamin C side effects | Is vitamin C good for acne? | What should you look for on the label? | What ingredients shouldn’t be mixed with vitamin C? | Is it safe to use vitamin C with retinol? | How do you use vitamin C serum? | Can I use vitamin C at night? | Should you keep using vitamin C if it changes colors? | How do you keep vitamin C fresh?1. What does vitamin C do for your skin?What, exactly, does vitamin C do for your skin, you ask? Well, it has the potential to help with a lot of issues, especially when applied topically in serum form. “Vitamin C has a wide range of protective and anti-aging effects for the skin,” Annie Chiu, MD, a board-certified cosmetic and general dermatologist on faculty at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, tells SELF. “Serums typically offer the highest concentrations of active vitamin C and tend to have better skin penetration compared to other vitamin C products, like creams and cleansers.” Here are a few of the biggies when it comes to benefits:Vitamin C can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.That’s because the antioxidant can help your skin produce collagen—a protein that gives your complexion a firmer, bouncier feel, which in turn helps to improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles, Dr. Chiu explains.Vitamin C can help brighten your skin.With consistent use, your skin can become more even in tone—and downright glowy!— because vitamin C inhibits the over-production of melanin, the substance in your body that produces pigmentation in your hair, eyes, and skin. Some areas of the skin will create too much melanin which is what leads to hyperpigmentation. This often manifests as darkened skin discoloration, says Dr. Chiu.Vitamin C can help protect your skin.Yep, it may help prevent skin damage that can be caused by environmental aggressors, like U.V. rays, pollution, or smoke, among others. “Vitamin C is an antioxidant, which helps fight free radicals (unstable molecules in the body) that age the skin,” says Dr. Chiu. It has some possible healing effects, too. “Vitamin C has anti-inflammatory properties and boosts wound healing by helping cells migrate to the area of the skin injury,” she says.¹2. What are the possible side effects of vitamin C serum?The most common side effects of using a vitamin C serum include skin irritation like tingling upon application, redness, and itching, but this mostly happens to “sensitive or reactive skin,” Dr. Chiu says. Always patch test an area of skin before you try any new product, especially a potent one like a serum. Many derms recommend applying a small dollop (a dime-sized amount should do) to your inner arm for a day or two to see how your skin reacts before slathering it all over your face.Dr. Chiu warns that stronger formulations can sometimes have a low pH, which can be especially irritating for those with dry and/or sensitive skin. To be safe, she recommends starting with a gentler formula at first—one that contains less than 5% vitamin C—and then working your way up, if you’d like. Most people can benefit from going up to 10% once their skin can handle it, and some can go up to 20%, as long as it’s applied only once per day.3. Is vitamin C good for acne-prone skin?People with acne can potentially benefit from adding a vitamin C serum to their routines, but there are a few nuances to consider. A 2013 research review in the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology suggests that topical vitamin C can improve acne lesions in up to 77% of patients.²As for acne scars, it’s good for that, too, thanks to those collagen-boosting and skin-brightening powers that were mentioned earlier. (You’ll just want to avoid any vitamin C formulas that are heavy or pore-clogging like oils or rich creams that often further exacerbate acne.)

Niacinamide sounds like a beauty brand’s chemistry-lab invention (just us?), but the increasingly popular skin-care ingredient is actually just a form of vitamin B3. Niacinamide benefits on the other hand? Not so ordinary: They include potentially improving all kinds of skin concerns, from acne to hyperpigmentation to signs of aging.You might see niacinamide pop up in a topical product and in supplement form (we’ll explain the differences between the two and any potential side effects below) and wonder which one to choose. Or maybe you already grabbed a product with niacinamide off the Sephora shelf without 100% certainty of its potential perks. If you aren’t quite sure what niacinamide is or what it’s doing in your moisturizer, you’re not alone. Here’s what you should know about niacinamide benefits—and how to use niacinamide—before adding it to your skin-care routine.What is niacinamide? | What does niacinamide do for your skin? | Which ingredients can you combine with niacinamide? | How do you use niacinamide? What is niacinamide?Niacinamide, which is also called nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3 (niacin) found in supplements, skin-care products, and food. “Vitamin B3 is an antioxidant which is important for cell repair,” Snehal Amin, MD, board-certified dermatologist and clinical assistant professor of dermatology at Weill-Cornell Medical College, tells SELF. Vitamin B3 in general is found in a variety of dietary sources, including poultry, legumes, and eggs. As such, deficiencies aren’t common in the U.S., according to Dr. Amin.And then there’s niacinamide, the vitamin B3 compound. It’s often touted to help manage acne, rosacea, pigmentation issues, and wrinkles. But is there any science behind those claims?Scientists theorize that niacinamide may be effective in skin-care products because it’s a precursor to two super-important co-enzymes within your cells: nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+/NADH) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP+). Both of these molecules are central to the chemical reactions that your cells—including skin cells—need to repair damage, reproduce, and function normally. Many of these essential reactions can’t occur at all without NAD+, which your cells can’t make without niacinamide.1By giving your body niacinamide, the theory is that it allows you to make more NAD+, John G. Zampella, MD, assistant professor in the Ronald O. Perelman department of dermatology at NYU Langone Health, tells SELF. NAD+ then fuels your cells to proliferate and also allows your body to absorb and neutralize more free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage cells).In other (less confusing) words, the ability to potentially help your body create more NAD+ and, therefore, repair damage is thought to be the root of niacinamide’s potential skin-care benefits in both topical and even potentially supplement form. There’s also evidence that topical niacinamide can increase the production of ceramides (lipids that help maintain the skin’s protective barrier), which may contribute to its topical effects on wrinkles, fine lines, and the skin’s moisture barrier.2 All of this is probably why you’re seeing niacinamide listed in a bunch of skin-care products.Back to topWhat does niacinamide do for your skin?If niacinamide is involved in most important cell functions, then there’s nothing it can’t cure, right? Well, no—if every cellular process in our bodies could be perfected with vitamin supplements, we wouldn’t need antibiotics or radiation therapy. That said, oral and topical niacinamide may have some actual benefits for skin health:Skin cancer prevention:Ask a dermatologist what niacinamide does best, and the very first niacinamide benefit they’ll list is probably “skin cancer prevention.” In a 2015 study in the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers gave 386 patients 500 mg of oral niacinamide or a placebo twice daily for a whole year. All of the participants had at least two non-melanoma skin cancers within the previous five years and, therefore, were at a high risk for developing another skin cancer. Results showed that during the study, there were 23% fewer new cases of skin cancer in the group that received niacinamide (336 cancers) compared to those who got the placebo (463 cancers).3Both Dr. Zampella and Laura Ferris, MD, PhD, associate professor in the department of dermatology at the University of Pittsburgh, told SELF they frequently suggest oral niacinamide to their patients with a high risk for non-melanoma skin cancers, and cited this study as the reason why.This doesn’t mean that two niacinamide capsules a day (which is what participants took in the study) will stave off skin cancer forever, though. The study focused on people who had experienced skin cancer before—not the general public. And it doesn’t tell us anything about using niacinamide to help prevent melanoma skin cancers (and the research we do have suggests it’s more helpful for preventing squamous cell carcinoma).4 But if you’ve had multiple non-melanoma skin cancers in your life, you should ask your dermatologist about oral niacinamide.

So, these options may not be as effective as the prescription versions, but they may still be “worth a try,” Dr. Ogunleye says. And Dr. Massick agrees that while they’re less potent than azelaic acid 15% or azelaic acid 20% concentrations, 10% is a good place to start and a reasonable price point for azelaic acid. “My general approach if we can’t get the prescription strength covered is that I’ll have a patient try the 10%,” Dr. Zampella adds. “Azelaic acid is one of the safest of the medicines you could try,” he says—so the potential benefits usually outweigh the risks.Back to topIs azelaic acid safe for pregnant people?Unlike some acne treatments (including retinoids and benzoyl peroxide), azelaic acid is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, there isn’t research in pregnant humans, but data from animal studies suggests that it doesn’t cause any birth defects when applied to the skin. “There’s minimal fetal exposure when azelaic acid is used topically,” Dr. Massick says. “Less than 4% is absorbed by the skin when applied topically, plus it’s usually applied in small, specific areas.” That said, because the research is limited, it’s smart to ask your doctor if azelaic acid is right for you.Back to topHow long does it take for azelaic acid to work?In general, if you’re using azelaic acid to address acne or rosacea, Dr. Zampella suggests sticking with it for three months before deciding whether or not it works for you. But some people may see a benefit within four to six weeks or even sooner. If you’re using it to address pigmentation concerns, “some people start seeing a benefit within a week,” he says.You can use azelaic acid long-term as an everyday product (Dr. Shirazi recommends applying azelaic acid after cleansing in the morning and at night). “I suggest long-term use for my rosacea patients or those with melasma or chronic acne and sensitive skin for maintenance therapy,” Dr. Shirazi says. Though it’s safe and effective for long-term acne treatment, it may not be the best go-to product for the occasional breakout. It’s not as powerful an ingredient as retinol for treating acne, but it’s more gentle for sensitive skin, she adds.If you skip a morning or evening dose of azelaic acid, nothing bad will happen, but it’s best to keep it as consistent as possible and apply the dose as soon as you remember. “You may find it’s not as effective if you forget to use it consistently,” says Dr. Massick.It’s a good idea to stay away from harsh or potentially irritating products (like those outlined above) while your skin adjusts to azelaic acid, and it’s always a good idea to limit the amount of exfoliating products you’re using at one time to limit irritation . You technically can use azelaic acid with a physical exfoliant like a facial scrub, but you wouldn’t want to use the azelaic acid, a scrub, and a powerful chemical exfoliant like glycolic or salicylic acid all together, says Dr. Shirazi. Using all of those options could result in over-exfoliation, peeling away too many layers of skin and irritating your skin barrier.But, overall, azelaic acid is a pretty easygoing ingredient, Dr. Zampella says. And there isn’t really anything you can never use it with, Dr. Ogunleye adds, although it’s always smart to ask your derm about potential problems with ingredient combinations. Really, “the biggest barrier is getting it covered by insurance,” Dr. Zampella says.

Most pimple talk centers on facial acne and sometimes body zits, but scalp acne is also a thing. In fact, it’s a pretty common (and equally annoying) issue—particularly if you already struggle with acne elsewhere. “While scalp acne isn’t as common as facial or truncal acne, it’s not rare either,” Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Premiere Dermatology in Pittsburgh and fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, tells SELF. “People with oily hair or an oily scalp, those who under or over-wash their hair, those who have acne or folliculitis elsewhere, and those who use excess hair products like waxes, gels, and hairsprays are more prone to scalp acne.”And while head acne doesn’t necessarily favor one particular hair type or texture, Tiffany Clay-Ramsey, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Dermatology Affiliates in Atlanta and fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology tells SELF that she’s noticed it’s more common in her patients with thin, straight hair—possibly because that hair type tends to be oilier, which in turn can lead to clogged pores.But before you go diagnosing pesky bumps on your head à la Dr. Pimple Popper, you’ll want to determine what they actually are (not all scalp bumps are acne vulgaris—the clinical term for acne, caused by clogged pores which may become inflamed) and what might be causing them so you can treat them accordingly.1 That’s where we—and the dermatologists we consulted—come in. Below you’ll find just about everything you need to know about pimples on your scalp, including how to treat them, how to prevent them, and how your hair products might be contributing to the issue.What causes scalp acne?Similar to when you get acne on your face, pimples on your scalp can show up for a host of reasons. “Scalp acne can be caused by numerous factors, including, but not limited to, bacteria, oil or product build-up, hormones, or inflammation,” says Dr. Zubritsky. Her recommendation: If the pimples on your scalp persist, or look like they might be getting worse (read: they’re multiplying and/or getting angrier), it’s best to see a dermatologist in order to get to the root of the problem and ensure it’s not something more concerning. “Occasionally, what looks like ‘pimples’ on the scalp can be bumps caused by more serious inflammatory medical conditions like lichen planopilaris or discoid lupus, or may even be a skin cancer,” Dr. Zubritsky explains. “This is especially true if you’re experiencing symptoms like bleeding, itching, flaking, or pain.”Shampoo (along with the rest of your hair products) can also contribute to scalp acne. “Products that are heavy in oils can clog pores on the scalp, while products containing alcohol or sulfates can cause irritation or lead to more oil production,” says Dr. Zubritsky.What’s the difference between scalp acne and folliculitis?Turns out, if you’re experiencing painful scalp bumps, you may actually have folliculitis, not acne—they’re pretty similar. “While acne does occur on the scalp, more often what looks like acne is actually folliculitis,” Mona Gohara, MD, board-certified dermatologist and professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine, tells SELF. Per the Mayo Clinic, folliculitis is when the hair follicle becomes inflamed (generally from a bacterial or fungal infection) and causes acne-like bumps at the roots. “These painful bumps can mimic acne and can stem from occlusive products (like waxes, oils, or dry shampoos), from excessive sweating, and from bacterial infection,” says Dr. Gohara. While some of the treatment recommendations for scalp acne and folliculitis are the same (like avoiding pore-clogging products and regularly washing your hair), you should see a dermatologist if your bumps are persistent to determine if you have folliculitis and, if so, how to best treat it. (More on that soon.)Is there a difference between pimples on your hairline and pimples on your scalp?While the cause of pimples on your hairline and scalp acne can be the same, they’re often different. “Hairline acne can be part of normal acne vulgaris, folliculitis, or ‘pomade acne’ (caused by the build-up of oil and waxes from styling products like pomade, hairspray, and hair gel),” Dr. Zubritsky says. “While pimples on the scalp, on the other hand, are more often caused by how often you cleanse your scalp, the types of shampoos and hair products you use, or other medical diseases specific to the scalp (like lichen planopilaris or discoid lupus).” Other causes of acne or folliculitis on the hairline could be heavy, occlusive makeup, or wearing a hat a lot—the friction causes irritation and the material can trap oil and bacteria, she says.What’s the best scalp acne treatment?The best scalp acne treatment for you depends on what’s causing the pimples on your head in the first place. Dr. Gohara recommends taking a step back and analyzing whether you’ve been doing anything differently in your hair or face routine that could’ve led to your scalp breaking out (i.e., going longer between showers, loading up on dry shampoo, trying out new hair products, etc.). If any of these habits sound familiar, it’s time to pare down your products and make changes like committing to a regular cleansing schedule—which could mean shampooing anywhere from every day to once a week, depending on your hair type and lifestyle. “It’s important to stay consistent with hair washing, particularly if you use a lot of styling products or sweat excessively,” Dr. Zubritsky says. If you’re prone to scalp acne, she also recommends staying away from heavy hair products like waxes and oils that can clog pores on the scalp and lead to more breakouts.What’s the best scalp acne shampoo?Choosing a shampoo to use when your scalp is breaking out can feel like a double-edged sword. On the one hand, you want something that will give your scalp a deep clean to clear clogged pores of product, oil, and sweat build-up, but on the other hand, you also don’t want anything too harsh that could further irritate your already sensitive skin. “For scalp acne shampoos, I recommend products that don’t have sulfates and are non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and oil-free,” says Dr. Zubritsky. “I also like shampoos with salicylic acid or coal tar (a common dandruff-shampoo ingredient), which can decrease the amount of oil in the scalp and clear clogged pores.”Should you be exfoliating your scalp?A targeted scalp exfoliating treatment isn’t necessary, but if you know your scalp and hairline are breakout-prone, it’s not a bad idea; nor is choosing an acne shampoo with a chemical exfoliant. All three of our experts recommend shampoos and treatments with salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which will help to sweep away dead skin cells and keep pores clean and clear of build-up. And for those times that you’ve gone a few too many days without cleansing, try a deep-cleansing shampoo—look for label terms like clarifying or “detoxifying” (we’re generally skeptical about this buzzword, but in this case, it typically just means it helps remove excess dirt, oil, and or/dead skin). A few derm-approved picks to try: Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo ($9), The Inkey List Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Scrub ($13), and Vanicream Shampoo ($11).

Looking for effective moisturizers is hard for anyone, let alone the best moisturizers for acne-prone skin. But, no matter your skin type, even skin that tends to be oiler and predisposed to acne breakouts, it is, indeed, possible to find the best face moisturizer that works for you. Part of the challenge is that people with acne-prone skin do everything in their power to keep oiliness away. The thought process there is that moisturizers—some of which contain oil and can leave a greasy feeling on the skin—would cause more breakouts. However, dermatologists agree that moisturizing is an essential step in every skin-care routine, one that can even help soothe and prevent acne if done correctly. “It may seem counterintuitive, but oily skin types need a moisturizer in order for their complexion to stay healthy and balanced,” Joel Schlessinger, M.D., a dermatologist in Omaha, NE, tells SELF.How to pick a moisturizer for acne-prone skinSo what are the best skincare products for acne-prone skin? When it comes to finding the right moisturizer keep in mind that not every moisturizer will work for your skin. There are a few key words to look for when shopping for an acne-friendly daily moisturizer. “You always want to look for an oil-free, noncomedogenic brand for acne,” New York City-based dermatologist Michele Green, M.D., tells SELF. If the product is noncomedogenic, that means it’s less likely to clog pores and, therefore, less likely to cause a breakout.But not all acne-prone skin is oily (not to mention there are different types of acne). In fact, dry skin, normal skin, sensitive skin, basically any skin can be prone to breakouts as well. Acne causes can depend on all kinds of environmental, hormonal, and genetic factors. For those skin types, it’s still important to look for noncomedogenic products to avoid adding any more oil to the situation, but you’ll need to find a moisturizer that also addresses your skin’s other concerns, like dryness.In order to get the lowdown on some great moisturizer options that won’t break you out, we turned to dermatologists to find out which products they consider the best moisturizers for acne-prone skin and how to moisturize your face. Read on to find a moisturizer that’ll leave your skin feeling hydrated—and never greasy. And if you’re looking 

Retinol also isn’t a quick fix. It takes time to see results (possibly a few months), and it’s something you’ll have to keep using to maintain its benefits.DermstoreFirst Aid Beauty FAB Skin Lab Retinol Serum 0.25 Pure ConcentrateSephoraDrunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol CreamDermstorePCA Skin Intensive Clarity Treatment 0.5 Pure Retinol Night6. RetinalRetinol isn’t the only over-the-counter retinoid out there—or the gentlest. In fact, some experts recommend that those with sensitive skin opt for products containing retinal (also called retinaldehyde) instead of traditional retinol. Like retinol, this compound is a naturally occurring retinoid that the body converts to retinoic acid. And, as SELF explained previously, it has been shown in a few studies to be just as effective as retinol and other retinoids with fewer side effects.Products to try:AmazonMyChelle Dermaceuticals Remarkable Retinal SerumAmazonAvene Retrinal .1 Intensive CreamDermstoreObagi Medical Retivance Skin Rejuvenating Complex7. AdapaleneAdapalene—often known by the brand name Differin—is a synthetic retinoid that used to be available only via a prescription. But it recently became available over-the-counter, which makes it a great, strong acne medication that you can access without a prescription. And because it’s synthetic, it was formulated to be gentler than other prescription acne medications. For those who’ve graduated beyond over-the-counter retinol but aren’t quite ready for the full intensity of a prescription retinoid, adapalene is a perfect choice.Products to try:UltaLa Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene GelWarning: Sulfur smells like rotten eggs. But it is an effective ingredient at drying up pus-filled pimples and whiteheads (you’ve gotta take the good with the bad). It works by sucking up the oil. Sulfur is typically mixed with other active ingredients to get the most efficacy and with fragrances to mask the strong scent. You can often find it in masks and spot treatments.Products to try:DermstoreLancer Skincare Clarifying Detox MaskSephoraPeter Thomas Roth Therapeutic Sulfur Acne Treatment Mask9. BakuchiolThis ingredient, which is a plant-based extract often billed as a retinol alternative, is not actually a retinoid at all. But in a few limited studies on Bakuchiol, it did show promise in managing things like skin texture and fine lines—without the side effects we usually associate with retinoids. Today it might show up in a product all on its own or be paired with a low concentration of retinol to help boost the acne-fighting and antiaging effects without increasing the risk for side effects. As a solo ingredient, Dr. Adotama recommends it to those looking for more natural remedies for acne. Bonus: recent research indicates it’s particularly well suited for acne on skin of color.TargetVersed Press Restart Gentle Retinol SerumUltaIndeed Labs Bakuchiol Reface PadsSephoraThe Inkey List Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative MoisturizerAnd here are the best acne treatments for more severe acne (many of these will require a prescription!).10. Dapsone GelOne option your dermatologist might prescribe for acne is dapsone gel, such as the brand-name version Aczone. Dapsone is both antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, and it’s proven to help get rid of blackheads, whiteheads, and deeper painful pimples. Oftentimes dapsone is used alongside other acne treatments. And as with many of those other remedies, this can cause skin to dry out.11. A Cortisone ShotCortisone is a quick fix for acne emergencies, especially large cystic acne bumps. Go to the dermatologist’s office for a shot of this corticosteroid, and the pimple will dramatically lessen and possibly even disappear in 24 to 48 hours. The treatment works to curb inflammation, which makes it best for cystic breakouts and can be really good at combating hormonal acne flare-ups.However, if done incorrectly, a cortisone shot can leave a small depression in the skin that lasts about eight weeks. “It’s a rare side effect that happens if the dosage of cortisone is too high,” Dr. Linkner explains. “You want to go to someone who knows what they’re doing.” So this method is best saved for those rare emergencies and should not be considered a long-term treatment for your acne.12. Birth Control PillsIf you notice that you’re breaking out right around your period every month, your acne might be linked to hormones. When it comes to hormonal acne, “a sensitivity to the hormones called androgens manifests in the form of cystic acne,” say Dr. Linkner. Androgens, namely testosterone, cause the skin to produce more sebum. More sebum equals more acne. Combination hormonal birth control, which contains the hormones estrogen and progestin, helps keep hormones balanced and skin clear. Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Estrostep, and YAZ are all FDA-approved as acne treatments.13. SpironolactoneSometimes birth control alone isn’t enough to really make a difference in hormonal acne. That’s when your doctor might recommend adding in an androgen blocker such as spironolactone. Spiro (as it’s often called) minimizes the amount of androgen hormones in circulation by blocking the receptors that bind with testosterone. When these pills are taken at the same time as an oral contraceptive, many women see an improvement in breakouts, according to Dr. Linkner. The drug is sometimes prescribed to women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) to relieve androgen-related symptoms like excessive hair growth, hypertension, oily skin, and acne.14. TazaroteneAlso known by the brand name Tazorac, this is another powerful prescription retinoid, but it’s synthetic. Like other retinoids, it can cause side effects like dryness and irritation, so you should always follow your dermatologist’s instructions for when and how to use it. Interestingly, it can also be used to help manage plaque psoriasis and may be combined with other topical medications, like corticosteroids, to do just that.15. IsotretinoinIsotretinoin (formerly sold as Accutane) is a particularly strong retinoid. It has a mixed reputation, but among dermatologists it’s the finisher for patients with severe acne. “If you have an acne patient that doesn’t respond to anything, [isotretinoin] can really be a game changer,” board-certified dermatologist Adam Friedman, M.D., tells SELF. Commonly referred to as Accutane even though that particular brand was discontinued, isotretinoin is an oral retinoid, and it has all the benefits of a topical retinol but is even more effective.

Whether you’re dealing with stubborn blackheads or a cystic breakout, understanding the different types of acne can help you figure out what you can do to actually get rid of it.“While most acne-prone people will benefit from over-the-counter (OTC) treatments, like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid cleansers and retinoids, the type and severity of your acne may influence whether other treatment options should be included in your regimen,” Marisa Garshick, M.D., assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell-New York Presbyterian Medical Center, tells SELF.You might refer to any ol’ bump as a pimple, but acne vulgaris,1 or common acne, goes beyond the breakouts that plagued your teenage years. “It’s the medical term used to describe types of acne like blackheads, whiteheads, and other blemishes on the skin,” Dr. Garshick says. “Your face, chest, shoulders, and back are the most common areas where acne vulgaris appears.”Studying up on the various bumps that can take root in your skin helps take the guesswork out of deciding which acne fighters to use (or may inspire you to finally book an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist). Ahead, SELF asked skin experts to explain what’s what when it comes to acne.What are the different types of acne?“Dermatologists often categorize breakouts as non-inflammatory acne and inflammatory acne,” Dr. Garshick says. Blemishes are ranked by severity to determine the best course of action.Mild acne, Dr. Garshick explains, is considered to be mostly whiteheads and blackheads, with a few papules and pustules; moderate acne refers to multiple papules and pustules covering less than half of your face; moderately severe acne means you have numerous papules and pustules with occasionally inflamed nodules on more than half of your face; and severe acne means you have numerous large, painful, and inflamed pustules, nodules, or cysts, usually affecting most of your face.Here’s how to know which type of acne you’re dealing with—and how severe it might be—in order to pinpoint the best treatment options for your skin.Whiteheads and blackheadsWhat causes them: Welcome to the world of comedones, which is the fancy term for a pore or hair follicle that’s become clogged with oil, bacteria, or dead skin cells, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Blackheads and whiteheads can pop up anywhere on your body, but blackheads are especially common in areas with more sebaceous glands (your oil producers!), such as your nose and chin.What they look and feel like: Whiteheads are generally small, flesh-colored bumps, Dr. Garshick says. They’re known as closed comedones, because there’s a thin layer of skin cells that covers all the gunk inside the pore (hence the whitish, fleshy color). Blackheads, on the other hand, are open comedones. The trapped contents are exposed to air, causing them to oxidize and appear black, Dr. Garshick adds. Regardless of your skin tone, there’s not too much inflammation involved with either type of breakout and they generally don’t hurt. Both can make the skin feel a bit textured or slightly bumpy, but blackheads tend to be flatter than whiteheads.