How to Have Clear Skin Naturally

It can seem like a challenge to get healthy, glowing skin if you have sensitive skin that's easily irritated by the ingredients in commercial products, or even if you just prefer to avoid chemicals in your skincare routine. Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do that may improve the health and appearance of your skin. You may even be able to treat acne naturally, as long as you talk to your doctor first!

Method 1

Method 1 of 4:

Following a Daily Skincare Routine

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1
Use noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic skincare products and makeup. When you're choosing a face wash, moisturizer, makeup, beard oil, or any other skincare product, check the label to make sure it says "noncomedogenic" or "nonacnegenic." These terms mean that the product is free of ingredients that will block your pores and cause breakouts.^{[1]XResearch source}
- To keep your skin healthy and clear, try to limit how many products you use each day. For instance, you might only wear makeup on special occasions.
- You may also want to research different brands to find products that are made with all-natural or organic ingredients.
- Don't use any product after its expiration date, or if the color or smell changes after you've had it for a while. If a product is expired, it could cause breakouts or skin infections.
2
Wash your face in the morning and before bed. When you first wake up, wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any oils that may have built up on the surface of your skin while you slept. Then, wash your face again at night to get rid of any makeup, dirt, oil, and any other impurities you might have picked up throughout the day.^{[2]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Academy of DermatologyProfessional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologistsGo to source}
- Don't scrub your face when you wash it. Instead, gently rub the cleanser into your skin using your fingertips, and splash water onto your face to rinse the soap away. When you're finished, gently pat your face dry with a soft towel.^{[3]XTrustworthy SourceHarvard Medical SchoolHarvard Medical School's Educational Site for the PublicGo to source}
- Use a gentle, all-natural cleanser that's formulated for your skin type. For instance, if you have dry skin, you might use a lightweight, moisturizing cleanser. If you have oily skin, you might use a foaming deep cleanser. For acne breakouts, you might use a product containing salicylic acid.^{[4]XTrustworthy SourceCleveland ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
- If you wear makeup, always take off your makeup before bed. Otherwise, it could cause you to break out.^{[5]XResearch source}
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3
Use shaving cream and shave in the direction of your hair growth. If you shave your face, always use shaving cream, lotion, or soap to lubricate the blade so it will slide easily over your skin. Also, to minimize irritation, always use a clean, sharp razor, and shave in the direction that your hair grows, rather than pulling the razor against the grain.^{[6]XTrustworthy SourceMayo ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
- Shaving can be very irritating to your skin, and if you're not careful, you could end up with razor bumps, or even nicks or cuts that could potentially get infected.
- Opt for a shaving cream that's labeled either "moisturizing" or "for sensitive skin" for the gentlest shave.
4
Moisturize your skin after you wash or shave. According to board-certified dermatologist Mohiba Tareen, "Moisturizing your skin keeps it hydrated and more elastic." Plus, it's important to replenish any moisture that gets stripped when you clean your skin or shave your beard. Find a moisturizer that works for your skin type, and apply it every time you wash your face or shave, or anytime your skin feels dry.^{[7]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Academy of DermatologyProfessional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologistsGo to source}
- Avoid products with alcohol, as these can dry out your skin.^{[8]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Academy of DermatologyProfessional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologistsGo to source}
- If you have oily skin, opt for a lightweight, water-based moisturizer. If your skin is very dry, you might use a rich oil-based moisturizer.^{[9]XTrustworthy SourceNational Health Service (UK)Public healthcare system of the UKGo to source}
- To help prevent fine lines and wrinkles, try a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally-occurring compound that can help keep your skin hydrated and firm. Other ingredients that may help keep your skin looking smooth and firm include copper peptide, alpha-lipoic acid, and DMAE, which is derived from fish.^{[10]XTrustworthy SourceCleveland ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
- If you have combination skin, you might need to use separate products for the different areas of your face. For instance, if you only get dry skin on the sides of your nose, you might use a thicker moisturizer there, and a lightweight product on the rest of your face.
5
Use warm water and mild soap in the shower. Taking care of the skin on your body is just as important as caring for your face. When you shower or bathe, avoid using very hot water or harsh soaps, as these can strip away the oils that your skin needs for a healthy, natural glow. Instead, opt for water that's comfortably warm, and use a mild body wash or soap.^{[11]XTrustworthy SourceNational Health Service (UK)Public healthcare system of the UKGo to source}
- Avoid scrubbing your skin with rough washcloths or sponges, as this can irritate it and dry it out. When your skin is dry, it might look dull or ashen, and it might even begin to overproduce oil, which can lead to acne.^{[12]XTrustworthy SourceHarvard Medical SchoolHarvard Medical School's Educational Site for the PublicGo to source} Board-certified dermatologist Mohiba Tareen suggests "only washing the dirty parts of your body with soap, like your groin, your armpits, under your breasts, and between your toes."
- Try using a moisturizing body wash to clean your skin gently without drying it out.
6
Exfoliate your skin gently once a week. Exfoliating means to gently scrub the surface of your skin to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and debris that accumulate over time. There are plenty of exfoliating products on the market, but if you want an all-natural option, try making your own at home! According to board-certified dermatologist Mohiba Tareen, "You can also use chemical exfoliators, like glycolic acid or lactic acid, to exfoliate your face without irritating it from scrubbing."
- For instance, you might mix 1 tbsp (12 g) of white or brown sugar with 2 US tbsp (30 ml) of olive or coconut oil. Gently rub the mixture into your skin in a circular motion, then rinse it away thoroughly.

Method 2

Method 2 of 4:

Treating Breakouts Naturally

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1
Keep your hands away from your face. It can be hard to break the habit, but touching your face can spread dirt and bacteria to your skin, which can lead to inflammation and breakouts. In addition, touching your face can transfer germs to your eyes, nose, and mouth, which could make you sick.^{[13]XResearch source}
- Regularly wash anything that touches your face, including your phone, glasses, sunglasses, and pillowcase, as they can also transfer dirt to your skin.
- Keep your hair clean to help prevent oil buildup that could lead to breakouts..^{[14]XResearch source}
2
Resist the urge to pop your pimples. It can be really tempting, but if you get a breakout, keep your hands away from that blemish. If you pop your pimple, it can push the infection deeper into your skin, making it more difficult to treat.^{[15]XResearch source}
- Popping your pimples can also increase the risk that you'll develop scarring at the blemish site.
3
Talk to your doctor before you try any natural treatments. If you prefer to use at-home remedies over commercial treatments, talk to your doctor or dermatologist about which options are best for you. Let them know you're exploring all-natural solutions for your acne, and ask them about the pros and cons of the different treatments you're considering.^{[16]XTrustworthy SourceMayo ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
- There's a chance that your doctor will recommend an over-the-counter topical cream, because these are inexpensive and usually very effective at treating acne. However, if you want to avoid these, let your doctor know about your concerns, but be open to hearing what they have to say, too.
4
Apply tea tree oil for a natural way to help treat breakouts. Find a natural product that contains at least 5% tea tree oil, and dab a little on your breakout once a day. It might not work as quickly as a commercial product, but it should help reduce the swelling and redness of your blemish over the course of a few days.^{[17]XTrustworthy SourceMayo ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
- Some people are sensitive to tea tree oil, so before you use it, dab just a little on the side of your jaw. If you experience any redness or itching, do not use the product anymore.
- Never use pure tea tree oil on your skin, as it may cause irritation.
- Although more information is needed to test their effectiveness, you may find some relief from acne by using products containing bovine cartilage, zinc, green tea extract, or aloe vera.
5
Apply alpha hydroxy acid to your skin to fade blemishes. Alpha hydroxy acid is naturally found in foods like citrus fruits. It can help exfoliate your skin and unclog your pores. It can also help lighten dark spots on your face.^{[18]XExpert SourceMohiba Tareen, MD
FAAD Board Certified DermatologistExpert Interview. 26 March 2020.}
- If you use alpha hydroxy acid, you may notice that your skin gets red or slightly irritated, and you may have an increased sensitivity to sunlight.
6
Ask your doctor about prescription-strength azelaic acid. Azelaic acid is naturally found in whole grains and some animal products. It's available over the counter in a 10% solution, but you'll likely see better results with the 20% strength that requires a doctor's prescription.
- To use azelaic acid, apply a thin layer to the affected area twice a day for at least 4 weeks.
7
Take a brewer's yeast supplement for long-term improvement. A certain strain of brewer's yeast, known as Hansen CBS, may help improve acne when you take it as a supplement. Try adding 2 g of this yeast to your food or drinks 3 times a day until your skin clears up.^{[19]XTrustworthy SourceMayo ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
- Taking brewer's yeast can have some side effects, so talk to your doctor before you start taking it. For instance, it may cause digestive issues, including gas, and it could worsen Chron's disease. It may also raise your blood pressure if you're taking an MAOI.

Method 3

Method 3 of 4:

Making Skin-Friendly Lifestyle Choices

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1
Drink plenty of water every day to keep your skin hydrated. When your skin is hydrated, it's more likely to look healthy and radiant, and less likely to become dry. To make sure you get all the water you need, try carrying around a refillable water bottle. That way, any time you feel a little thirsty, you'll have instant hydration on hand. You might be surprised how quickly your skin shows an improvement!^{[20]XTrustworthy SourceNational Health Service (UK)Public healthcare system of the UKGo to source}
- Other fluids, including juice, broth, tea, and soda, count towards your daily fluid intake. However, water is the healthiest option for your skin.
- If you're a woman, you should drink about 11.5 cups (2.7 l) of fluids each day. If you're a man, try to drink about 15.5 cups (3.7 l) every day.
2
Eat a healthy diet rich in amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Following a healthy diet comes with a ton of great benefits for your body and mind, but you might not realize the effect it can have on your skin, as well. There are a number of foods that contain vitamins and nutrients that are essential to having beautiful skin. For instance:^{[21]XTrustworthy SourceCleveland ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
- Amino acids help your body produce collagen, the protein that primarily makes up your skin. Get amino acids in your diet from foods like chicken, fish, beef, eggs, dairy, and beans to get amino acids.
- Add vitamin C to your diet to help repair your skin naturally. You can find vitamin C in foods like citrus fruits, greens, broccoli, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
- Include skin-protecting minerals zinc and copper in your diet by eating meat and shellfish. If you prefer a plant-based diet, eat plenty of nuts, whole grains, and beans.
- To help fight acne, get plenty of omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as flaxseeds and walnuts. You can also take a supplement containing flax oil, flaxseeds, or fish oil.
3
Protect yourself from the sun to avoid damaging your skin. Any time you're going to be outside, wear sunscreen that's at least SPF 30. For even more protection, cover as much exposed skin as possible with loose-fitting clothing, a hat, and sunglasses. Also, try to avoid going outside between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm, when the sun's rays are the strongest.^{[22]XTrustworthy SourceNational Health Service (UK)Public healthcare system of the UKGo to source}
- If you're wearing normal clothing, use about 2 tsp (9.9 ml) of sunscreen to cover your head, neck, and arms. If you're wearing a swimsuit, it will take about 2 US tbsp (30 ml) to cover your whole body.
- Reapply your sunscreen every 2 hours, or more often if you're swimming, sweating, or if you think the sunscreen may have gotten rubbed away.^{[23]XTrustworthy SourceNational Health Service (UK)Public healthcare system of the UKGo to source}
- Sun damage can lead to premature aging.^{[24]XExpert SourceMohiba Tareen, MD
  FAAD Board Certified DermatologistExpert Interview. 26 March 2020.}
4
Get a good night's sleep so you'll look refreshed. To make sure you get enough sleep each night, try to stick to the same bedtime and waking times, which can make it easier to fall asleep and wake up. In addition, create a cool, dark environment, with soft bedding and fluffy pillows, so you'll be comfortable while you rest.^{[25]XResearch source}
- If you're an adult, you need about 7-8 hours of sleep a night. If you're a teen, try to get 9 hours of sleep every night.
- If you don't sleep well, you might notice that your skin looks dull and pale, and you might have dark circles under your eyes.
- Feeling fatigued can also make it harder to manage stress, which could potentially lead to more frequent breakouts.
- Try using a satin pillowcase to reduce the friction against your face while you sleep.
5
Find ways to manage your stress levels to keep your skin looking bright. If you're overwhelmed by stress, it can start to show on your skin. For instance, you might notice that your skin is more sensitive than usual, and you might have more breakouts. To avoid this, try to avoid over-extending yourself, and set aside time each day for the things you really love.^{[26]XTrustworthy SourceMayo ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
- If you can't eliminate the source of your stress, try mindful meditation, deep breathing techniques, or yoga to help you manage it, instead.
6
Take steps to quit if you're a smoker. Smoking is really bad for your health, including your skin. Not only does it contribute to premature aging and wrinkles, but it can also leave your skin looking dull and pale. It may even increase your risk of developing certain types of skin cancer. It can be really hard, but it's best for your health overall if you can quit.^{[27]XTrustworthy SourceMayo ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
- Try talking to your doctor about smoking cessation aids like gum or patches to help you quit.
- It's important to have a support system to rely on while you're quitting. If you aren't sure you can lean on your family and friends, try joining a support group while you quit.
7
Avoid drinking alcohol in excess, as it can affect your skin's appearance. Having a drink once in a while is probably fine, but if you drink frequently or excessively, it can cause your body and skin to become dehydrated. This can cause your skin to look dull and dry.^{[28]XTrustworthy SourceNational Health Service (UK)Public healthcare system of the UKGo to source}
- If you're a woman, try to stick to one serving of alcohol a day. If you're a man, try not to have more than 2 servings a day.
- A serving of alcohol is 12 fl oz (350 ml) of a beer with an ABV of about 5%, 5 fl oz (150 ml) of wine that's around 12% ABV, or a 1.5 fl oz (44 ml) shot of a 40% ABV (80 proof) liquor.^{[29]XResearch source}

Method 4

Method 4 of 4:

When to Seek Medical Care

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1
See your doctor if you might have a skin condition. Symptoms like rash, redness, swelling, itching, and scaling may be a sign of a skin condition. There are several different skin conditions that have similar symptoms, so don't try to treat yourself. Instead, talk to your doctor to get a proper diagnosis. Then, work with your doctor to create a treatment plan that works for you.^{[30]XTrustworthy SourceCleveland ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
- Tell your doctor that you want to try natural treatments. They can advise you on what's safe to try on your skin.
- For instance, you could have a condition like rosacea, eczema, or a fungal infection.
2
Talk to your doctor if your skin isn't clear in 4-8 weeks. Most skin treatments take several weeks to work, including natural treatments. If your skin isn't improving after about 4-8 weeks, you may need to try a different treatment. See your doctor to get your skin checked. Then, ask them about other treatments you can try.^{[31]XTrustworthy SourceMayo ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
- Let them know that you've been using natural treatments and would like to continue to do so, if possible.
- Tell your doctor about all of the treatments you've tried so far.
3
Check with your doctor if you have widespread acne. While natural treatments may help clear your acne, they don't work for everyone. You're more likely to need additional treatments if your acne is widespread. See your doctor to find out if you need a more serious treatment. For instance, you may need to take an antibiotic to treat your skin from the inside.^{[32]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Academy of DermatologyProfessional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologistsGo to source}
- If hormonal shifts are causing your acne, hormonal birth control may help clear your acne.
4
See a dermatologist if you have cystic or nodule acne. Nodule and cystic acne may scar if you don't treat it. Additionally, it may not respond to topical treatments because it starts deep under your skin. Visit your doctor or a dermatologist to get your skin examined. Then, ask about your treatment options.^{[33]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Academy of DermatologyProfessional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologistsGo to source}
- Since the cystic or nodule acne starts deep under your skin, you'll likely need to take oral medications to help clear up your skin. This may include an antibiotic or hormonal birth control.
5
Get immediate treatment for an allergic reaction to a topical treatment. While it's rare, you may have an allergic reaction to your skin care products, including cleansers, moisturizers, and essential oils. Try not to worry if this happens, but you do need to see a doctor. Visit your doctor, an urgent care center, or an emergency room if you have the following symptoms:^{[34]XTrustworthy SourceMayo ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of your eyes, lips, or face
- Tightness in your throat
- Feeling faint

Expert Q&A

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Question
What are some things I should do to get healthy skin?
Mohiba Tareen, MD
FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
Mohiba Tareen is a board certified Dermatologist and the founder of Tareen Dermatology located in Roseville, Maplewood and Faribault, Minnesota. Dr. Tareen completed medical school at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where she was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. While a dermatology resident at Columbia University in New York City, she won the Conrad Stritzler award of the New York Dermatologic Society and was published in The New England Journal of Medicine. Dr. Tareen then completed a procedural fellowship which focused on dermatologic surgery, laser, and cosmetic dermatology.
Mohiba Tareen, MD
FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
Expert Answer
Make sure you always wear sunscreen when you're outside since sun damage can cause premature aging. Moisturize every day and drink plenty of water so your skin is hydrated and healthy. You should also eat a healthy diet, make sure you're getting enough sleep every night, and avoid smoking.
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I have combination skin and day by day my pimples are increasing can you suggest me a proper moisturizer?
Jurdy Dugdale, RN
Medical Review Board
Jurdy Dugdale is a Registered Nurse in Florida. She received her Nursing License from the Florida Board of Nursing in 1989.
Jurdy Dugdale, RN
Medical Review Board
Expert Answer
It could be that you should not be using moisturizer during the active pimple stage. This could clog the pores and make the problem worse.
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My face full of pimples, what should I do?
Jurdy Dugdale, RN
Medical Review Board
Jurdy Dugdale is a Registered Nurse in Florida. She received her Nursing License from the Florida Board of Nursing in 1989.
Jurdy Dugdale, RN
Medical Review Board
Expert Answer
Visit a dermatologist, as this could be hormonal. Make sure to wash your face often and follow the treatments in this article.
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Wear sunscreen when you're out in the sun, at least SPF30, but the higher the better. Don't wash your face too often, as this will dry out your skin and cause it to overproduce oil. And lastly, keep your pillowcase clean. If you don't wash your pillowcase often, oils from your face will build up and can make acne worse.
If you have oily hair, try to keep it away from your face. Use a headband or clips to hold your bangs away from your face, or style your hair in a way that it doesn't rest against your skin. The oil from your hair can make breakouts worse.
If your skin is sensitive and prone to blemishes, avoid wearing heavy makeup often. Always make sure to remove your makeup before you go to sleep.
Don't over-exfoliate. Over-exfoliating can damage your skin, which can lead to worse breakouts and other skin issues.
When washing your face, be gentle. Use warm or cool water; avoid hot water, as this can dry out your skin.

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Warnings

If you have a reaction to any new product, stop using it right away. If you try these natural methods and still have problems with your skin, see a doctor or dermatologist.
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