Acne isn't something that will clear up overnight, but with the right skin care regimen and lifestyle changes, you can start to see improvement in a few weeks. Depending on the severity of your acne and the treatments you try, it may take up to three months to start seeing some real improvement.
Here are some steps you can take to start clearing up your skin:
Start a gentle skin care routine – Washing your face gently twice a day with a gentle cleanser, exfoliating at least once a week to remove the build-up of oils and dead skin, and applying a moisturizer with SPF in the morning can help keep your pores clean and your skin healthy.
Follow a balanced diet – Eating a varied and balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables can help improve your skin. Make sure to include foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as nuts, fatty fish and avocados, and avoid processed and sugary foods.
Manage stress levels – Stress can trigger and worsen acne flare-ups, so it’s important to practice stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation and yoga.
Get enough sleep – Sleep is important for maintaining our physical and mental health. Not getting enough sleep can cause a variety of skin problems, including acne. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep a night.
For more detailed tips and advice on managing and treating acne, the American Academy of Dermatology has a great resource that can help: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne-and-rosacea/acne.