How to Get Rid of Skin Impurities

Having clear and glowing skin can be a sign of health and vitality. Many people are prone to impurities in their skin, which can cause acne or other skin problems.[1] By treating trouble areas of your skin and encouraging clear skin, you may be able to get rid of impurities and have the beautiful skin you want.

Part 1
Part 1 of 2:

Treating Trouble Areas

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    Identify the impurities in your skin. There are different types of skin impurities. Learning about these may help you more effectively treat them.[2] The four main types of skin impurities are:
    • Oil production
    • Dead skin cells
    • Clogged Pores
    • Bacteria[3]
    • Triggers such as hormones, medications, diet, and stress.[4]
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    Understand which factors don't affect impurities. There are some myths about what can increase impurities and cause acne. Knowing what won’t make impurities or acne worse can help you find the right solution for your condition. The following have little effect on acne and impurities:
    • Eating greasy foods, though working near a fry vat in a kitchen might
    • Having dirty skin
    • Using makeup or other cosmetics if you remove them.[5]
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    Steam before treatment. Gently steaming your skin before treatment may help open your pores and loosen any debris causing your impurities.[6] Put your face above a bowl of boiling water to make removing your impurities easier.[7]
    • Hold your face at least 12 inches (30.5 cm) away from the bowl so you don’t scald or burn yourself. Steam for 2-3 minutes.[8]
    • Maximize the effects of the steam by putting a towel over your head.
    • Make sure your skin is clean before you steam.[9]
    • Use a warm towel to soften your skin if you don’t want to steam it.[10]
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    Apply a facemask. Masks can draw impurities out of your skin. Apply a thin layer of one you purchase commercially or make at home.
    • Buy a mask designed to remove impurities or treat acne.
    • Mix a mask from products you have at home. For example, you can combine a ¼ cup of fresh mint leaves with one egg white to treat impurities.[11] You can boost the antibacterial properties of the mint by mixing the same amount of mint leaves, 2 tablespoons (29.6 ml) milk powder, ½ tablespoon of honey and ¼ cucumber.[12]
    • Follow package instructions if you buy a mask.
    • Wash your hands before you put on the mask.
    • Leave the mask on your skin until it is just dry or as long as the instructions say.
    • Take off the mask with cotton rounds or a soft washcloth.
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    Extract the impurities. Although dermatologists advise against using extraction products because they can cause scarring, you may want to extract the impurities with a tool. You can use everything from a comedone extractor to pore strips to get rid of any larger impurities.[13]
    • If you want your impurities extracted, the safest option is to visit a dermatologist or a licensed skincare professional to have them do it for you.
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    Use a comedone extractor. Comedone extractors are tools that can quickly and effectively remove larger impurities from your skin. You can buy a tool with two cupped or looped ends, which are the safest, at most pharmacies or even some cosmetics retailers.
    • Press lightly on one side of the impurity and gently move the extractor across it.[14]
    • In one movement, sweep the extractor over the top of impurity, which should dislodge it as a plug.[15]
    • Rinse or rewash your skin to remove any lingering debris or bacteria from your skin.
    • Wash the extractor in hot, soapy water when you’re done.[16]
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    Try pore strips for lots of impurities. Pore strips are pieces of fabric with a medicated adhesive to help draw out impurities. These work if you have a lot of little impurities and for larger areas of skin. However, you should be careful with pore strips, which can remove the upper part of your skin.
    • Wet the part of your skin where you want to put the strip so that it sticks well.
    • Put the strip directly against your skin so you get the best results.
    • Let the strip to dry completely before taking it off to make sure you get rid of as many of the impurities as possible.
    • Peel off the strip slowly to make sure you completely remove impurities and minimize pain.
    • Rinse off your skin to clear away any debris or residue on your skin.
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    Apply topical creams, lotions, or gels. Topical treatments can get rid of impurities on your skin, especially on larger areas. Apply a thin layer of the topical treatment with clean fingers.[17]
    • Use a product you buy at a pharmacy or a skincare professional or have your doctor prescribe a stronger one if your acne is severe.
    • Leave the product on only as long as the directions suggest in order to minimize irritation.
    • Put moisturizer on your skin if you leave the treatment on overnight, which can also help prevent irritation.
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    See your doctor. If your skin issues continue to come back, get worse, or you can’t get rid of them, schedule an appointment with your doctor or dermatologist. She can examine your skin and figure out the best treatment to get rid of your impurities. Your doctor might prescribe one of the following treatments to help remove your skin impurities:
    • Topical retinoids such as tretinoin or tazarotene
    • Topical antibiotics such as benzyl peroxide or erythromycin
    • Dapsone and a topical retinoid
    • Oral antibiotics such as tetracycline or doxycycline
    • Oral contraceptives such as Yaz
    • Anti-androgen agents for women and adolescent girls.[18]
    • Light therapy
    • Chemical peels
    • Steroid injections.[19]
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Part 2
Part 2 of 2:

Encouraging Clear Skin

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    Wash your face regularly. Remove excess dirt and oil from your skin by cleansing it regularly. Washing your face regularly can minimize and prevent impurities of your skin.[20]
    • Use a gentle cleanser.[21]
    • Choose an oil-free cleanser if have very oily skin. Glycerine or cream-based cleansers are a good choice in this case.[22]
    • Limit use of most bar soaps because the ingredients can promote impurities. Using a neutral-pH soap that has moisturizing cream such as Dove or Basis is fine.
    • Rinse with lukewarm water. Water that is too hot can strip oils and lead to irritation and may actually increase the production of impurities.[23]
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    Avoid over-washing your skin. Although washing your skin regularly is important, try and not overwash it. This may irritate your skin, strip its oil, and boost the production of impurities.[24]
    • Wash places with impurities or prone to acne no more than twice a day unless you are very active.[25]
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    Take off your makeup. Even though wearing makeup won’t hurt your skin, not taking it off can promote an environment for impurities to develop. Remove your makeup before exercising and going to bed.[26]
    • Use a gentle cleanser or makeup remover to get off all of your makeup.
    • Consider using a toner to remove any lingering residue.
    • Wash makeup applicators once a month with soapy water, which can clean off bacteria that causes impurities.[27]
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    Bathe after exercise. Take a bath or shower after you exercise or are active. Sweat can stimulate the development of impurities, such as oil or bacteria.[28]
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    Wear moisturizer daily. Apply a moisturizer when you’re finished with your cleansing routine. Keeping your skin hydrated may help get rid of and prevent impurities.[29]
    • Moisturizer will also help keep your skin supple and elastic.[30]
    • Buy a moisturizer specific to your skin type. Oily skin also needs moisturizer, simply get an oil-free and non-comedogenic product.[31]
    • Ask your doctor or a skin care professional what skin type you have and stick to products specifically made for your needs.
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    Exfoliate dead skin. Dead skin and debris can clog pores and cause acne. Get rid of dead skin with a gentle exfoliator that you use once or twice a week.
    • Be aware that exfoliators cannot scrub away impurities.
    • Use an exfoliating product with synthetic or natural beads to prevent irritation. You can also use a soft washcloth for the same effect.
    • Be careful not to over-exfoliate. Too much exfoliation can cause redness and irritation.[32]
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    Use products for acne-prone skin. Products developed for acne-prone skin can help clean your skin and prevent or minimize impurities. Choose products marked “non-comedogenic” or non-acnegenic.[33]
    • Consider trying products market “hypoallergenic” too. This it will not irritate your skin, which can often cause impurities to get worse.
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    Control oil. Apply a product to control oil on your skin. This can remove excess oil that is clogging your pores. It may also keep bacteria and dead skin at bay.[34]
    • Use a salicylic acid cream that you get from a pharmacy or that your doctor prescribes.
    • Place an oil blotting paper on your face to soak up excess oil.
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    Let skin breathe. Tight apparel like hats or leggings can cause lead to impurities by holding in heat and moisture. Put on items that allow your skin to breathe.[35]
    • Try sweat or moisture wicking clothing if you are active or do sports. They can minimize the sweat on your skin, which can cause breakouts.
    • Choose natural fabrics such as cotton or merino wool to prevent irritation that can lead to acne.
    • Wash clothing and articles like pillowcases that touch your skin. Using a mild detergent can get rid of the dirt, oil, and bacteria you’re your pores.[36]
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    Touch your skin as little as possible. Avoid touching or picking at your skin as much as possible. Before touching your skin, always wash your hands. Your fingers and hands can spread oil and bacteria.[37]
    • Try to not pick or pop impurities, which may cause scarring or lead to more problems.
    • Be careful when resting hands on your face or chin because it can spread dirt and bacteria.[38]
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    Eat healthy foods. Doctors believe that a healthy diet can keep impurities and acne at bay.[39] Avoiding unhealthy foods may help keep your skin clear.[40]
    • Foods or diets that are high in fat, dairy, and sugar may make your skin worse.[41] Try and not eat too many junk foods or sweets.
    • Foods high in vitamin C, including fruits and vegetables like strawberries and sweet potatoes, may help make your skin healthier skin.[42]
    • Food like walnuts or olive oil, which are high in healthy unsaturated fats, may help make your skin look and feel healthy.[43]
    • Drink about 8 cups of water daily to keep your body healthy, which could also help your skin stay impurity-free.[44]
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Expert Q&A

  • Question
    How can I get rid of impurities on my skin naturally?
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
    Mohiba Tareen is a board certified Dermatologist and the founder of Tareen Dermatology located in Roseville, Maplewood and Faribault, Minnesota. Dr. Tareen completed medical school at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where she was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. While a dermatology resident at Columbia University in New York City, she won the Conrad Stritzler award of the New York Dermatologic Society and was published in The New England Journal of Medicine. Dr. Tareen then completed a procedural fellowship which focused on dermatologic surgery, laser, and cosmetic dermatology.
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
    Expert Answer
    Drink plenty of water, eat a healthy diet, and make sure you're getting enough sleep every night. Living a healthy lifestyle can help prevent impurities and keep your skin healthy.
  • Question
    How can I get clear skin fast at home?
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
    Mohiba Tareen is a board certified Dermatologist and the founder of Tareen Dermatology located in Roseville, Maplewood and Faribault, Minnesota. Dr. Tareen completed medical school at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where she was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. While a dermatology resident at Columbia University in New York City, she won the Conrad Stritzler award of the New York Dermatologic Society and was published in The New England Journal of Medicine. Dr. Tareen then completed a procedural fellowship which focused on dermatologic surgery, laser, and cosmetic dermatology.
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    Mohiba Tareen, MD
    FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
    Expert Answer
    Use over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide to help treat breakouts. Exfoliate occasionally, and moisturize your skin every day. If you have oily skin, use retinoid products to control the oil.
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Warnings

  • Never wash your face with hot water. Warm or tepid water works best. Always test the temperature of the water on your arm or hand before using it on your face.
    ⧼thumbs_response⧽
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References

  1. ↑ https://www.aad.org/media/stats/conditions
  2. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/causes/con-20020580
  3. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/causes/con-20020580
  4. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/causes/con-20020580
  5. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/causes/con-20020580
  6. ↑ http://blog.mariobadescu.com/steaming/
  7. ↑ http://www.thedermreview.com/blackhead-extractor/
  8. ↑ http://blog.mariobadescu.com/steaming/
  9. ↑ http://blog.mariobadescu.com/steaming/
  1. ↑ http://blog.mariobadescu.com/steaming/
  2. ↑ http://www.skindiseaseremedies.com/mint-face-mask/
  3. ↑ http://www.skindiseaseremedies.com/mint-face-mask/
  4. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne-and-rosacea/acne
  5. ↑ http://www.thedermreview.com/blackhead-extractor/
  6. ↑ http://www.thedermreview.com/blackhead-extractor/
  7. ↑ http://www.thedermreview.com/blackhead-extractor/
  8. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20020580
  9. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/treatment/con-20020580
  10. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/treatment/con-20020580
  11. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/symptoms/con-20020580
  12. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/symptoms/con-20020580
  13. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/prevention/con-20020580
  14. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/prevention/con-20020580
  15. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/prevention/con-20020580
  16. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/prevention/con-20020580
  17. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/prevention/con-20020580
  18. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/prevention/con-20020580
  19. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/prevention/con-20020580
  20. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20020580
  21. ↑ Mohiba Tareen, MD. FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist. Expert Interview. 26 March 2020.
  22. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20020580
  23. ↑ Mohiba Tareen, MD. FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist. Expert Interview. 26 March 2020.
  24. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/prevention/con-20020580
  25. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/prevention/con-20020580
  26. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/prevention/con-20020580
  27. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/prevention/con-20020580
  28. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/basics/prevention/con-20020580
  29. ↑ http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_body/skin_stuff/acne.html#a_What_Can_I_Do_About_Acne_
  30. ↑ https://www.aad.org/media/news-releases/growing-evidence-suggests-possible-link-between-diet-and-acne
  31. ↑ https://www.aad.org/media/news-releases/growing-evidence-suggests-possible-link-between-diet-and-acne
  32. ↑ https://www.aad.org/media/news-releases/growing-evidence-suggests-possible-link-between-diet-and-acne
  33. ↑ https://www.aad.org/media/news-releases/beauty-from-the-inside-out-improving-your-diet-or-taking-supplements-may-lead-to-younger-looking-skin
  34. ↑ https://www.aad.org/media/news-releases/beauty-from-the-inside-out-improving-your-diet-or-taking-supplements-may-lead-to-younger-looking-skin
  35. ↑ http://www.uwhealth.org/madison-plastic-surgery/the-benefits-of-drinking-water-for-your-skin/26334

About This Article

Mohiba Tareen, MD
Medically reviewed by:
Mohiba Tareen, MD
FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
This article was medically reviewed by Mohiba Tareen, MD. Mohiba Tareen is a board certified Dermatologist and the founder of Tareen Dermatology located in Roseville, Maplewood and Faribault, Minnesota. Dr. Tareen completed medical school at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where she was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. While a dermatology resident at Columbia University in New York City, she won the Conrad Stritzler award of the New York Dermatologic Society and was published in The New England Journal of Medicine. Dr. Tareen then completed a procedural fellowship which focused on dermatologic surgery, laser, and cosmetic dermatology. This article has been viewed 68,715 times.
3 votes - 67%
Co-authors: 16
Updated: February 21, 2022
Views: 68,715
Categories: Skin Care
Article SummaryX

To get rid of impurities on your skin, wash your face with a gentle cleanser regularly to remove excess dirt and oil. After your skin is clean, you can apply a thin layer of topical skincare cream, lotion or gel. Along with this daily routine, you should exfoliate once or twice a week to get rid of dead skin. You may be tempted to pick or pop at your acne, but try not to since this can spread oil and bacteria and may even cause scarring. If you’re having trouble managing trouble areas on your skin on your own, consider seeing a doctor so they can figure out the right treatment for you, such as a topical retinoid. For more advice from our Medical co-author, including how to eat healthy to keep your skin free of impurities, scroll down!

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