Shampoo your hair frequently. Wash your skin thoroughly but gently, never rub hard. Vigorous scrubbing can make acne worse. Avoid any products containing harsh chemicals, dyes, or oils. Wash and dip makeup applicator brushes and sponges in alcohol after each use to avoid contamination.
Friction makes pimples more likely to rupture, so avoid wearing tight clothing like turtlenecks.
Carefully adjust straps on sports equipment such as bicycle or football helmets. Even using the telephone can exacerbate inflammation if you hold the receiver against your cheek for long periods. If you must shave an area of skin affected by acne, use a standard blade. Using an electric razor may lead to scarring. Always shave in the direction of hair growth.