For mild acne, a simple routine often works best. Wash the affected area gently twice a day with a mild cleanser, avoid harsh scrubbing, and choose moisturisers, sunscreens and make-up labelled non-comedogenic so they do not clog pores. Resist picking or squeezing spots, which worsens inflammation and scarring.
Several over-the-counter ingredients can reduce mild acne. A pharmacist can advise which is suitable for your skin and how to introduce it slowly to limit irritation. Improvement is usually gradual, so allow several weeks of consistent use before deciding whether something is working.
See a doctor if acne is moderate to severe, painful, leaving scars or marks, not improving with over-the-counter care, or affecting your wellbeing. Stronger or oral treatments need a prescription and proper assessment, and some are unsafe in pregnancy. This is general information and not a substitute for individual advice from a clinician.