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How do I get a Clear Complexion?

B. Miller
B. Miller

There are a few different ways to try to get a clear complexion. One of the best ways is to develop a daily routine of washing the face morning and night, and applying a daytime and evening moisturizer every day. Acne sufferers may find that it takes a bit more effort to get a clear complexion; in some cases, it may be necessary to visit a dermatologist for prescription treatments, but this is usually only necessary in extreme cases where acne is difficult to treat or painful.

When you have a clear complexion, the skin is soft, smooth, and blemish-free; some people find that when their skin is clear, it seems to "glow" and have a healthier appearance. For many people, this can be accomplished by using a gentle cleanser morning and night; those with sensitive skin should use a fragrance-free cleanser. Exfoliating cleansers may also be used for a deeper clean; be sure to choose one that is designed to be gentle enough for everyday use if you choose to use an exfoliating cleanser.

Making healthy lifestyle choices is one way to achieve clearer skin.
Making healthy lifestyle choices is one way to achieve clearer skin.

Deeper cleansers may be used once every week or every two weeks. These might include exfoliating scrubs, masks, or facials, and can all be very helpful when trying to get a clear complexion. These help to deeply cleanse the pores, remove and prevent blackheads, and help to prevent oil from forming on the face. In addition to cleansers, moisturizers are very important for a clear complexion.

Using an exfoliant can help clean out pores.
Using an exfoliant can help clean out pores.

A moisturizer for use during the day should be worn every day and should contain sunscreen, to protect the skin from sun damage, wrinkles, and potentially skin cancer. Acne sufferers might find that a cleanser or moisturizer containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid is helpful at clearing up blemishes and encouraging clear skin in the future. Again, people with sensitive skin might choose a moisturizer that is oil-free and fragrance-free to avoid irritating the skin. In the evening, choose a nighttime moisturizer that is very emollient and contains antioxidants, to help the skin repair itself overnight.

A clear complexion can be helped by lifestyle choices as well. Quitting smoking, getting enough sleep, developing a regular exercise program, and drinking plenty of water throughout the day can all make the skin look better. Some people find that making dietary changes, such as cutting back on greasy or fatty foods and replacing them with fruits and vegetables, can also help the complexion to appear clearer and healthier.

Discussion Comments

SteamLouis

Is what I eat really that important for a clear complexion? My mom thinks that I have a bad complexion because I eat fast food a lot and drink soda.

turquoise

@fify-- I get those too. It's not possible to prevent them since they're caused by hormonal fluctuations. But I do use acne spot treatments when I get them. A spot treatment cream dries out the pimple quickly so there is less chance of a blemish.

It's also important to exfoliate the skin. I keep an exfoliating scrub in my shower. Since I have oily skin, I exfoliate about three times a week. It really makes a difference.

Are you using an oil-free moisturizer right now? If not, you should switch. I always break out when I use moisturizers with oil in them.

fify

I mostly have a clear complexion except during the time of the month when I get several cystic pimples at once. Is there a way to prevent these?

Every time I get them, they take about a week to heal completely and they leave behind blemish marks that take months to go away. This is the only thing that's messing up my complexion.

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    • Making healthy lifestyle choices is one way to achieve clearer skin.
      By: Sikov
      Making healthy lifestyle choices is one way to achieve clearer skin.
    • Using an exfoliant can help clean out pores.
      By: kubais
      Using an exfoliant can help clean out pores.