While acne is a normal part of being a man, there are things you can do to clear up your skin.
1 Over-the-Counter Acne Treatments
If you've just started breaking out, you may be able to clear your skin with store-bought acne products (AKA over-the-counter acne medications). But not all acne products are created equal. The most effective will contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Look for these listed as the active ingredients on the label. Don't worry too much about the brand name, or what form of treatment you're using (i.e. cleanser, medicated pads, lotion). Instead, choose a product that fits your budget and is easy for you to use. If over-the-counter products are right for you, you should notice an improvement within 10 to 12 weeks.
2 Prescription Acne Medication
If you've tried a ton of OTC products and you're still breaking out, it's time to call for backup. Your doctor has plenty of prescription acne treatment options that will help you get your acne under control. You don't necessarily have to see a dermatologist, either. You can see your regular doctor first and they'll refer you to a dermatologist if they think it's necessary. The advantage here is that prescription medications are going to be stronger and they usually work faster than OTC treatments. Also, they can work even when OTC products haven't.
3 (Actually) Use Your Treatments Correctly
Once you get your treatments home, you have to actually use them. And if you're not using them, they aren’t going to clear your skin. We know you're busy, and using treatments is a hassle, and there are times when you just flat-out forget. However, using those treatments is important, so do whatever it takes to use them every day.Make sure you know exactly how to use your acne medications. That means reading all the directions (even if it seems obvious) and following the instructions your doctor gives you. Be sure to ask if you have any questions, too. It may sound like a pain, but it is important. Once you get into the habit of using your treatments, it really isn't that bad and doesn't take too much time.
4 Regular skin care routine
Even though acne isn't caused by not washing your face, the excess oil and dirt that builds up throughout the day won't help matters. Sweat can also irritate your skin and make acne worse. That is why a good skin care routine is important. It only takes a few minutes a day and doesn't require a ton of fancy products like some girls enjoy using. All you need is a gentle facial cleanser, such as Native Man Wash + Shave , and a moisturiser after, such as Native Man Moisturiser + Aftershave, which is made with all natural ingredients and will not cause your skin to feel oily.
5 Don't Put Weird Stuff On Your Face
Your best friend tells you to put toothpaste on your pimples; your grandpa says rubbing alcohol will clean and clear your skin. The internet is crawling with home remedies sworn to banish pimples. But, truly, if it sounds weird you probably shouldn't be putting it on your face. Many of the commonly suggested remedies for acne, like cinnamon, garlic, and lemon juice, can be extremely irritating if applied to the skin. Other things, like Windex or urine, can be plain dangerous (not to mention gross). These remedies simply aren't effective; actual acne medications are going to give you much better results. If you're desperate to heal a big pimple, use an acne spot treatment instead of a strange remedy.
6 Be Careful to Not Shave Pimples
Shaving is another matter. If you have pimples in the beard area, do your best to shave carefully. Go around them if at all possible or, at least, try to avoid shaving the tops off of your pimples. The more you irritate your skin, the redder and more inflamed it's going to look. The skin on your face can be sensitive, so try to treat it as gently as you can. This may mean shaving less often until the inflammation goes down.