Acne is annoying, we get it.
Whether it’s that one stubborn pimple before a big event or a full-blown breakout, it can feel like your skin has a mind of its own.
While everyone knows the basics—like washing your face and avoiding junk food—there are smarter, less obvious tricks that can actually make a difference.
Here are 15 surprisingly effective acne hacks no one really talks about.
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1. Change Your Pillowcase Every Other Day
Your pillowcase is basically a sponge for sweat, oil, and dirt.
Even if you wash your face before bed, bacteria and oil can build up, making breakouts worse.
Switch to a clean pillowcase every couple of days to keep acne-causing bacteria at bay.
Better yet, go for silk pillowcases—they’re gentler on your skin and less likely to trap oils.
2. Double Cleanse at Night
If you wear makeup or SPF (and you should), a single cleanse isn’t enough.
Start with an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup and sunscreen, then follow with a gentle water-based cleanser.
Double cleansing makes sure no grime is left behind, which means fewer clogged pores and fewer breakouts.
3. Stop Overwashing Your Face
Scrubbing your face like you’re cleaning a countertop is NOT it.
Overwashing strips your skin of natural oils, causing it to overproduce oil to compensate.
Once in the morning and once at night is plenty—even on bad skin days. And keep it gentle!
4. Use Ice Cubes to Calm Inflammation
Did you know ice cubes aren’t just for iced coffee?
Grab one, wrap it in a paper towel, and gently press it on any swollen pimples.
The cold reduces inflammation and redness, making angry spots look way less noticeable.
It’s like a mini spa treatment for your zits.
5. Avoid Hot Showers on Acne Days
As amazing as a steaming hot shower sounds, it’s not great for acne-prone skin.
Hot water can strip your skin and mess with its protective barrier, leaving it dry and irritated.
Stick to lukewarm water, and your skin will look better.
6. Stop Touching Your Face Already
We know it’s tempting, but touching your face is an acne disaster waiting to happen.
Your hands pick up dirt, bacteria, and oil all day long, so every time you touch your face, you’re basically planting breakout seeds.
Keep your hands busy with something else instead.
7. Avoid Dairy
Dairy products can sometimes trigger acne, especially in people sensitive to hormones present in milk.
If you notice flare-ups after consuming dairy, try cutting it out for a few weeks to see if your skin improves.
And don’t worry, your morning latte will taste just as good with a non-dairy milk in it!
8. Try a Zinc Supplement
Zinc might just be the secret ingredient your skin might be begging for.
Taking a daily zinc supplement can help reduce inflammation and keep oil production in check, especially if your breakouts are hormonal.
Always check with a doctor first, though.
9. Clean Your Phone Screen Daily
Your phone is probably grosser than a public bathroom.
All that bacteria transfers to your cheek every time you take a call, so wipe it down every single day with an antibacterial wipe.
Seriously, this one hack can save your skin.
10. Switch to Fragrance-Free Skincare
Fragrance smells amazing, but it’s also a sneaky skin irritant, especially if you’re acne-prone.
Look for products labeled “fragrance-free” or “unscented” to prevent extra sensitivity and unnecessary breakouts.
11. Apply Moisturizer Before Your Acne Cream
Acne treatments with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can dry you out fast.
To minimize irritation, apply a lightweight moisturizer first, then layer your treatment over it.
Your skin will still soak up the benefits without flaking off in the process.
12. Stop Skipping Sunscreen
Yes, you need sunscreen even if you’re breaking out.
The right sunscreen (look for “non-comedogenic”) can actually prevent acne scars from darkening.
Sun damage also makes your skin work harder, which can trigger more breakouts. SPF is a non-negotiable.
13. Use Green Tea as a Toner
This may sound random, but green tea is magic for acne-troubled skin.
Brew it, let it cool, and use a cotton pad to swipe it over your face.
Green tea’s antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties can calm redness and irritation naturally.
14. Wash Your Makeup Brushes Weekly
Your makeup brushes are full-on bacteria hotels.
Using dirty brushes on acne-prone skin is basically asking for clogged pores.
Make it a habit to wash them once a week with a gentle cleanser or brush soap to keep bacteria out of your products—and your pores.
15. Try a Red Light Therapy Device
If you’re looking for a non-invasive way to improve acne, red light therapy could be a game-changer.
Red light penetrates deeper layers of your skin to reduce inflammation, improve skin healing, and even stimulate collagen production.
While it won’t work overnight, consistent use can help promote healthier, clearer skin.
Check out at-home devices for an affordable and convenient option.
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