10 Simple Habits That Can Help You Clear Acne Faster
If you've already built a solid skincare routine by following my last post about clearing acne in 3 steps, these lifestyle habits can help support your skin and may even speed up your progress. They're not magic fixes - but they can make a meaningful difference over time.
1. Be Kind to Your Skin + Reduce Inflammation as Much as Possible
More products and stronger treatments don't always equal better results. If your skin feels tight, flaky, or irritated, it may be time to simplify your routine or adjust how often you're using your active products. A healthy skin barrier is one of the biggest contributors to healthy skin. A mentor once told me, "Imagine you just had a baby and the nurse glued it to your face. Treat it accordingly." Be gentle with your one and only skin.
2. Keep Your Skin Hydrated by Adding a Toner or Hydrating Serum
Acne-prone skin still needs hydration. A lightweight moisturizer and hydrating ingredients like beta glucan or glycerin can help support your skin barrier and reduce irritation from acne treatments.
3. Fuel Your Body Well
While diet isn't the sole cause of acne, certain foods may trigger breakouts for some people. Focus on eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and paying attention to any patterns you notice between your diet and your skin. Consider eating organ meats, egg yolks, grass fed butter and cream, salmon, and cod liver oil to reduce inflammation and increase your levels of Omega 3's. Studies also show that those with acne tend to be deficient in zinc so consult your doctor before supplementing.
4. Don't Ignore Your Overall Health
Sleep, exercise, stress management, and nutrient deficiencies can all influence your skin. Healthy skin isn't just built in front of the bathroom mirror - it's built through your daily habits.
5. Moisturize Every Day
Skipping moisturizer because you're oily is one of the biggest mistakes I see. Well-hydrated skin tolerates acne treatments better and often heals more efficiently.
6. Stay Active
Regular exercise supports circulation, reduces stress, and benefits your overall health - all of which can positively impact your skin. Just remember to cleanse your skin after a sweaty workout.
7. Keep Your Hands Off
Picking at pimples almost always delays healing and increases your risk of pigmentation and scarring. It's hard - I know - but your future skin will thank you.
8. Change Your Pillowcase Regularly
It's a simple habit, but clean pillowcases help reduce the buildup of oil, sweat, hair products, and bacteria against your skin.
9. Consistency Beats Perfection
The best skincare routine is the one you actually stick with. Give your products time to work before jumping to the next trend or viral product.
10. Stress Less (As Much As You Can)
Stress affects more than your mood - it can also influence your skin. Whether it's a walk outside, a workout, reading a book, or spending time with friends, finding ways to unwind is good for both your mind and your complexion. I like this poem read aloud on YouTube.
The Bottom Line
There isn't one magic cream, supplement, or habit that clears acne overnight. Healthy skin is usually the result of small, consistent choices made every day. Pair a personalized skincare routine with healthy lifestyle habits, and you'll give your skin the best chance to thrive.