First, gently wash your face with a gentle soap and cold water. Carefully dab, and try not to wipe your face dry. Next, apply a gentle astringent, which should be part of every woman's beauty regimen. Astringents are easy to find. If you are experiencing a breakout, try a concealer or coverup stick. Put this directly on your blemish.

After that, apply your foundation. Gently use your fingers to apply the foundation around the blemishes, blending carefully. When finished, you can apply the rest of your make-up like you normally would. Finish with a light dusting of face powder. When you are done, your pimples should be less noticeable.

If you are using standard cosmetics, remember that some may clog your pores, creating more pimples. Shop around to find a brand that won't clog your pores. Some brands are even designed specifically for teens with acne problems. Some of these brands of cosmetics come with instructions, which can make your job easier. Some of these make-up products also contain an ingredient that kills bacteria and will help clean your pores. Make sure you look for non-allergenic makeup for less skin irritation.

Preparing your face for a facial foundation can be easier if you use proper hygiene. Don't overwash as this can actually damage your skin. By carefully washing your face once or twice daily with cold water and a mild cleanser, you can improve your skin immensely. Proper use of moisturizers and exfoliants will keep your skin clear and healthy.

Four foundation formulations are available, oil based, water-based, oil-free, and water-free or anhydrous forms. Oil based products are designed for dry skin, whereas water based products can be used for all skin types. However, oil free formulations are used for oily skin, while anhydrous forms are long wearing and are used for camouflage or theatrical reasons.

Covering up the pimples can help teen women be less self-conscious. Wearing makeup during a breakout is up to the individual woman, just like shaving during an outbreak is up to the individual young man. There really is no truly right answer.

Makeup specialists in department stores may be a good resource for advice. Some even hold workshops or seminars on applying cosmetics. If the store caters to teens, they may also address acne as well as general skin care. Ask if they offer any of these services.

Many direct sales cosmetic companies also have special products that help prevent acne. Be sure to ask the sales associate. If a young woman can find a good makeup artist to help with this process, the issue of applying facial foundation during an acne outbreak can be addressed.

Try several different products, and don't be afraid to ask the sales representatives for advice. They may have a tip on an especially good product that will help alleviate acne breakouts. Get to know the associates as they can offer great tips. Explain that acne is a problem and that products that help prevent outbreaks would be appreciated.

Avoid These Actions When Healing Acne:

When healing acne, keep the following tips in mind. Most of them are simply common sense. Eat nutritious food, exercise on a regular basis, supplement with vitamins as needed, and stay fit. If you maintain a strong immune system, it will help fight acne. Follow the directions if you use medication, even if it is over-the-counter. Don't stay out in the sun too long, and practice good hygiene.

What you shouldn't do is just as important. Resist the urge to pop pimples. You may be advised to do so, but it can make your problem worse. Bacteria can get driven deeper into your skin, or may spread. This will prolong your infection and make a bigger problem.

Most important, don't just assume that everyone is knowledgeable who gives you advice on acne. A lot of people mean well, but don't know the facts. You may be advised to avoid fried foods, chocolate, and to stay in the sun. This is not correct and could lead to larger problems. There are no solid scientific studies linking what you eat and acne. It's a myth. Listen to other people's advice, but do your research. You can still eat your favorite foods and care for your skin at the same time.

If you're a male experiencing an acne breakout, be cautious shaving. Shave in small patches or use an electric razor if you must shave. Alternatively, wait to shave until after the outbreak is on the mend. If you're female, take care while applying cosmetics.

Choose a foundation that does not clog your pores, and if possible, change to cosmetics that include an antibacterial topical ointment. If one is available, take a class or seminar on how to apply it during a breakout.

Sun does not cure acne, no matter who told you that it does. The sun can be hard on your skin. Sunglasses, a hat, and sunblock should be part of everyone's arsenal in protecting themselves from overexposure to the sun. Choose your sunscreen carefully to find one that does not clog your pores.

Only wash your face once or twice daily. Wash gently with cold water and a mild cleanser. Excessive scrubbing will damage your skin and cause more acne.

If using a skin ointment, continue. Just make sure it does not clog pores. It should help them drain and help kill excess bacteria. Try to find an ointment that bacteria will not develop resistance to. Pores fill with bacteria, dead skin cells and oil. This creates pimples that may be very painful.

It is important to do all you can to keep your pores unclogged. Keeping the bacteria in control will cause fewer pimples, and the few you get shouldn't last as long.

Remember, you are not alone. All teens experience acne to some degree. Every adult was once a teen and lived through it as well. People do understand what you're going through, so try not to be embarrassed.

Sometimes, acne can affect self-esteem. It is normal to feel embarrassed to go to school or visit others with a great big pimple in the middle of your face. Try to remember that everyone experienced this at one time or another. Try to relax and do your best to prevent acne as much as possible.

Don't hesitate to consult a dermatologist if your problem persists or becomes worse. There are prescription treatments available that they can offer. You may want to try alternative treatments like acupuncture, ointments made with tea tree oil, or light therapy. These professionals are there to help you, and they understand how you feel.