We’re incredibly excited to partner with Dr. Lina Kennedy, MD today as she shares some of her best acne-fighting secrets with us. Thanks for joining us, Dr. Kennedy!
Thank you for having me today, She’s a Full On Monet! Unlike other articles about holistic remedies that may point to the benefits of adding honey into your health routine, today I want to share western medicine advice that really will go a long way. If you’re suffering from a little extra acne, perhaps due to breakouts from what the universe has deemed “maskne,” do not fear! I’ll be revealing my most recommended over-the-counter products that really work, without enlisting in an expensive prescription from your dermatologist. This may sound counterproductive, as I am a dermatologist — but I gave an oath as a doctor to give honest advice, so today that’s exactly what I’ll be doing! Don’t waste your money on expensive treatments if it’s not necessary. Follow along with me for the full scoop on all my dermatologist recommended acne treatments!
First Things First, Let’s Not Get Too Picky
I’m not talking about your partner ladies, I’m talking about your face. I definitely recommend you don’t pick at your skin. If you do end up getting a small acne bump, avoid touching it at all costs. It will incite and worsen the inflammation, or possibly leave behind a dark mark or scar.
Just a Spoonful of Nothing Helps the Inflammation Go Down
If your acne bump is just slightly red and hasn’t come to a head yet, there is one fun at-home trick you can do. Find a clean spoon and stick it in fridge or freezer for a few moments until cold to the touch. Hold on the problem spot for 5-10 minutes. Repeat 2-3 times, taking 10 minute breaks between applications. This little trick will decrease inflammation and even flatten that little spot out.
If you don’t own a stainless steel spoon, you can purchase some here.
If Spoons Don’t Work, Try Benzoyl Peroxide
If your acne bump isn’t budging, try spot treating it by applying benzoyl peroxide 2.5% directly to the acne bump. You can use it overnight and you’ll wake up already seeing a difference! Here are some of my favorite products:
Neutrogena Rapid Clear Spot Gel
This is an affordable maximum strength benzoyl peroxide spot treatment, available for purchase HERE.
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La Roche-Posay Duo Acne Treatment with Benzoyl Peroxide
I also highly recommend La Roche-Posay Duo Acne Treatment with Benzoyl Peroxide, which can be applied during the day.
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CosRX Acne Pimple Master Patch
Hydrocolloid bandaids are also very helpful. CosRX makes an acne pimple master patch that I really like. It absorbs all the oil from the acne bump and the next morning it will look and feel a lot better.
Dishing a Few More Secrets
I love how bright and inquisitive my clients are. It makes sharing juicy details about skin that much more meaningful. So without further ado, I’d like to drop a little insider knowledge before I go.
You may not realize, but until recently, products like these were not approved by the FDA. Adapalene gel was prescription only, and it wasn’t until 2016 that the FDA approved it for over-the-counter sales. In 2017, Proactiv launched ProactivMD powered by Adapalene. Now we all are able to experience the benefits of a prescription-strength retinoid.
And don’t forget (I know this probably sounds like a broken record by now), DO NOT forget to wear your sunscreen every single day. My favorite broad spectrum sunscreen is Elta MD UV PhysicalTinted Sunscreen. Another great one for acne-prone skin is Elta MD UV Clear.
There you have it! The best dermatologist recommended acne treatments. What other skin care secrets are you yearning to know more about? Comment below and we’ll consider your suggestion for a future post!
About Dr. Lina Kennedy
Who says you can’t have beauty and brains? Proof that these two incredible qualities can coexist, we have the beautiful Dr. Kennedy sharing a wealth of knowledge with She’s a Full on Monet today. Dr. Kennedy is part of an amazing team and works alongside Dr. Kappel. Their practice is located in Corona Del Mar, CA – home to most of The Real Housewives of OC cast – so you can be sure these beauty tips are good enough for the stars.
Enjoyed Learning About These Acne Remedies? You May Also Like:
Struggling With “Maskne?” Here Are The Tips And Tricks To Combat It
Here’s The Exact Order Your Skincare Routine Should Follow Day and Night
