Wash your face gently 1–2 times daily with a mild cleanser
Use non-comedogenic skincare products
Avoid picking, squeezing, or scrubbing pimples
Use an acne treatment with one active ingredient: benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or adapalene
Start slowly (every other day) if using retinoids or acne actives, then increase as tolerated
Apply acne treatment to the whole affected area, not just individual spots
Use sunscreen daily (SPF 30+) and avoid sunburn
Keep hair products, pomades, and sunscreen off the face
Change pillowcases regularly and keep hats/helmets clean
Remove makeup before bed and choose non-comedogenic makeup
Wash after sweating and avoid heavy friction from masks or helmets when possible
Consider spot treatment for inflamed pimples with benzoyl peroxide
If pimples are persistent, see a dermatologist for prescription options (topical antibiotics, oral antibiotics, hormonal therapy, or isotretinoin)
Seek urgent care for painful, rapidly worsening, or widespread acne, or acne with fever or scarring