What are the best ways to get rid of acne?

Oct 12, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

Generally speaking, there is no such thing as "the best way to get rid of acne." Acne, commonly known as pimples, can be treated through regular sleep patterns, dietary adjustments, proper skin cleansing, and medication. If these methods are ineffective, medical aesthetic treatments such as radiofrequency microneedling, red and blue light therapy, photorejuvenation, and fractional laser may also be considered.

Generally speaking, there is no such thing as a single "best method for acne removal." Acne, also known as "acne vulgaris," can be treated through regular sleep patterns, dietary adjustments, proper skin cleansing, and medical treatments. If these methods are ineffective, aesthetic medical procedures such as radiofrequency microneedling, red and blue light therapy, photorejuvenation (intense pulsed light), and fractional laser may also be considered. However, effectiveness varies from person to person. It is recommended to visit a reputable hospital and choose the most suitable treatment under professional medical guidance.

General Methods for Acne Treatment:

1. Regular Sleep Schedule

Inadequate or irregular sleep disrupts the body's circadian rhythm, leading to hormonal imbalances that affect sebaceous gland activity. For example, chronic late-night habits can cause hormonal fluctuations, including relatively elevated androgen levels, which stimulate excessive oil production. It is recommended to maintain 7–8 hours of sufficient sleep each night and try to go to bed before 11 p.m., establishing healthy sleeping habits.

2. Dietary Adjustment

High-sugar foods cause rapid spikes in blood glucose, increasing insulin secretion, which in turn stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. It is advisable to reduce intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods such as candies, cakes, and fried foods.

3. Skin Cleansing

Maintaining clean skin is fundamental to preventing and treating acne. The skin secretes oils daily and accumulates dust and other impurities; if not cleaned promptly, these substances can clog pores and trigger acne. Choose a facial cleanser suitable for your skin type and wash your face with lukewarm water 2–3 times per day.

4. Medication

Topical medications such as azelaic acid cream or tretinoin cream can be used under medical supervision. For more severe inflammatory acne, oral antibiotics such as minocycline hydrochloride capsules or doxycycline hydrochloride tablets may be prescribed.

Medical Aesthetic Procedures for Acne Treatment:

Procedure Name	Radiofrequency Microneedling	Red and Blue Light Therapy	Photorejuvenation (IPL)	Fractional Laser
Principle	Laser energy penetrates the skin to improve acne and minimize pores	Uses specific frequencies of red and blue light to promote localized skin recovery	Laser energy penetrates the skin to destroy or break down pigment cells	Laser irradiation targets acne lesions to destroy and eliminate them
Advantages	1. Minimal invasiveness 2. Improves skin texture	1. High safety 2. Non-invasive	1. Minimizes pores 2. Regulates sebum production	1. Tightens skin 2. High safety
Potential Risks	1. Infection 2. Allergic reaction	1. Swelling 2. Bleeding	1. Allergic reaction 2. Burns	1. Redness and swelling 2. Pain
Treatment Frequency	1–2 times per month	2–4 times per month	1–2 times per month	1–2 times per month
Duration of Results	3–6 months	2–3 years	2–3 years	2–3 years
Cost per Session	2,000–4,000 RMB/session	1,000–2,000 RMB/session	1,000–3,000 RMB/session	2,000–4,000 RMB/session

After treatment, proper facial care is essential. Sun protection and moisturization should be maintained, and consumption of spicy or irritating foods such as Sichuan pepper, chili peppers, and garlic should be avoided to prevent interference with recovery.

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Where should you use moxibustion for acne on the face to recover faster?

Acne on the face may be treated with moxibustion at acupoints such as Zusanli (ST36), Quchi (LI11), Hegu (LI4), Sanyinjiao (SP6), and Taichong (LR3). Moxibustion should be performed under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. If acne is severe, accompanied by infection, or shows no improvement after moxibustion, prompt medical attention is advised. The Zusanli point is located three cun below the犊鼻 (Dubi) point on the outer side of the lower leg. Moxibustion at this point helps regulate spleen and stomach functions, promotes metabolism, and reduces accumulation of damp-heat in the body.