One of the main daily routines to help with acne breakouts is washing your face or outbreak areas twice a day. It is vitally important to keep your skin clean. The way and the products you use to wash your face is also important.

Wash your face GENTLY at least twice a day and after any strenuous exercise that has caused perspiration. Do not SCRUB your face or skin. This actually can cause more harm than good and can even inflame your pimples.

Use a very mild soap like Neutrogena. Do not use anything that makes your skin feel overly dry. It is not necessary to use an astringent, yet if you do, only use it where your skin is very oily. If you visit a dermatologist, he/she should be able to recommend the best soap for your particular acne symptoms.

Do not excessively handle your skin. Your hands have bacteria on them and can cause the acne to get even worse. In other words, DO NOT pick at your pimples. I know that it is very hard not to do, yet it is very good advice. Only a doctor, with special instruments can effectively "pick" at pimples in a way that will not cause more inflammation and excessive scarring.

Use a special sunscreen that is at least spf15 and is non-comedogenic, non-oily, which means it does not clog pores. A good sunscreen for acne sufferers is Neutrogena SPF 45 Sunblock with Parsol 1789. You should always try to avoid tanning and sunburn because both could cause acne pimples and acne scars to become even more noticeable.

Shaving with acne can be tricky. It may be wise to invest in a good electric razor. Alternatively, if you use a safety razor, make sure you use a good shaving cream that really softens the hair follicles and skin. Try not to nick the acne pimples.

If you choose to use base makeup, it is recommended you choose a makeup that is oil free (and again) non-comedogenic. There are acne cover-ups that are available that also have acne medication. One product that is my favorite is Clinique's acne cover-up. It can cover up even the worst outbreaks.

Taking these few extra steps with acne skin care can make a world of difference in your flare-ups.