Obviously over-drying wont be a concern here, the cleansing oil also targets grime and build-up. We love it when you one, two step, Rodan+Fields. And oftentimes my answer is no. Even the Lizzoverse is keeping up with the trend! These compounds can help with clogged pores like blackheads and can cause the top layer of dead skin cells to shed, according to Dr. Mary Stevenson, a board-certified dermatologist and associate professor at NYU Langone Healths Department of Dermatology. [Niacinamide] has a calming and brightening effect on the skin, helping to improve overall tone and texture while reducing breakouts and controlling excess sebum and oil production, says Dr. Green, who notes that those with oily skin or breakouts will benefit from the healing, anti-inflammatory properties of this serum. One of the most important steps to preventing skin blemishes is wearing sunscreen, daily. Ideal for moisturizing, toning, and strengthening the skin, Ncessaires Body Lotion is jam packed with all the best ingredients including antioxidants, Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Omega-6, and Omega-9. Its liquid formula is lightweight and easy to blend. clarity melaleuca acne skin clear essentials prevention system melaleucajournal face

The well-loved Kiehls pore-minimizing mask is also formulated with clay to help unclog pores. eucerin dermopurifyer muka penjagaan revolusi sepanjang While Dr. Wu likes the Versed body mist to treat the back, butt, arms, or chest, other dermatologists look to body washes like CeraVes SA. When selecting products to include on this list, we rely on the advice of expert dermatologists and aestheticians, as well as Teen Vogue staffers who have used these products firsthand. Rounding out our list of the best acne treatments is this miracle lotion. Theres nothing quite ordinary about this peel. Luckily, the gentle ingredients in Mario Badescus Buffering Lotion help get your skin back to normal and quickly helps reduce the appearance of bumps overnight. Hormonal acne, which is due to fluctuations in our hormones, is one of those things that many people think you cant stop from happening, but its actually preventable. Its infused with coconut juice for a tropical vibe, even if youre not headed anywhere tropical. While Ive moved onto other facial cleansing products, I still cant get enough of Cetaphils Daily Facial Hydrating Lotion. Neutrogena Oil-Free Salicylic Acid Acne Wash, La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Acne Face Wash, Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer. We intentionally narrowed our list to 33 products: It was important for us to keep in mind that part of the problem with finding the best acne treatments is feeling like you have way too many options to choose from. However, realistically, we get rid of them with Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid. La Roche-Posays gel is also slightly gentler and more moisturizing than the Differin gel, according to people who have used both. It can also lighten the brown spots that are left behind from old acne marks, which we see most often in people who have darker skin tones, added Graber. Plus, it also contains vitamin C and E to condition and protect. A lot of benzoyl peroxide products contain 10% of the ingredient, Graber said, but she noted that higher strengths have never been proven to be better for acne.

Dark spots can really ruin the mood. It is made with prebiotic thermal water to help nurture and restore your skins healthy microbiome, she explains. According to Dr. Wu, this over-the-counter retinoid gets deep into the pores to help dissolve blackheads. Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and adapalene can be great acne-fighting ingredients if youre prone to pimples. Evans also noted that the ingredient shouldnt be used by people with sensitive skin or dermatological diseases like eczema or rosacea. You have to go through lots of duds before finding the one. Dr. Caren Campbell, a California-based board-certified dermatologist, recommended this OTC retinoid in our guide to retinol. Our hands are full of bacteria, and picking at our face with them can even make our acne worse. The French green clay in Circumferences Green Clay Detox Mask isn't heavy on your skin and moisturizes your face, while pulling the dirt out of your pores. OTC products can help with mild to moderate acne, but they generally take regular daily use for three months to see results, Deignan said. Plus, its fragrance free and doesnt clog your pores or irritate your skin. With broad spectrum SPF 30, this light-as-air formula has a pretty blossom scent, and is perfect for regular daily wear from the office at your summer internship all the way to the beach. It can be used as a daily cleanser or weekly mask to kill bacteria and prevent future breakouts, according to the brand. Moisturizer! It can be hard to find a acne cleanser that isn't drying, or worse is way too strong for your sensitive skin, causing even more breakouts.

Inflammation and clogged pores can be improved by using the proper cleanser. Maskne can be improved by using softer masks and keeping them clean.. Their waterproof patches help protect acne from infection (a pimple poppers BFF, basically) and help extract impurities overnight. If you notice that your skin is acne-prone, it can feel good to double cleanse because it helps degrease the skin, says Dr. Bowe, who recommends starting with Biodermas micellar water then cleansing with Skinfixs foaming cleanserboth options she notes are gentle enough not to damage the skin barrier. Raises hands in unison. Take a new approach to masking with the Dr. Dennis Gross LED device to combat blemishes by destroying acne-causing bacteria through an at-home blue light treatment. Now, it checks off all the boxes, including shade range. No more inflamed skin necessary. But dont worry, we tried and tested a sunscreen that we firmly believe is the very best out there: Coola Sun Silk Drops. There are 50 shades with five undertones. The Asian herbal plant has been used for centuries thanks to its skin healing properties. I first found out about Mario Badescus products when my skincare obsessed friend decided to ditch me and move across the country to Los Angeles. Sukari Babyfacial is used as a mask and is great for all skin types. Its an even more prevalent problem in the female population: Up to 22% of women in the U.S. suffer from adult acne compared to 3% of men, according to a 2014 study in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. Its strong and can cause sun sensitivity, so only use it at night and be sure to use SPF.. Providing lots of hydration while still soaking in quickly, this fragrance-free product is our new go-to body lotion. It's suitable for most skin types since it's free of oils, fragrances and parabens, according to the brand. Its a lightweight formula that still gives your face intense hydration. It also contains Niacinamide, which is seriously the holy grail when it comes to skincare ingredients, known to help with uneven skin tone, dull skin and repair irritated and damaged skin. Thanks to science, there are some ingredients that can help, like this serum from Allies of Skin. This face and body moisturizer from the brand features a non-greasy, paraben-free formula with no added fragrance to avoid irritation for sensitive skin types, according to the brand. When used in conjunction with African black soap (which some research suggests may help various skin conditions), it clarifies blemish-prone skin. Plus, it's all natural and full of plant-based botanical oils like blackcurrant seed and evening primose. Were kissing oily skin good bye with The Ordinary Niacinamide. Finding the right spot treatment is kind of like finding the right partner. Ad Choices. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. Its a gentle extra lil cleanse for after your heavy-duty cleanser. This ingredient can be especially useful for inflammatory acne, Evans noted. It works for all skin types, and it costs less than $10.

CeraVe a popular brand among our experts is Deignans pick for a lower-strength benzoyl peroxide wash. No, but really. Custom skincare seems like a luxury reserved for those who also have their lipstick expertly matched to their outfits. It's the ideal sunscreen because it combats both (and environmental toxins, too!). Get ready to lather up and give your skin the radiant and healthy glow its always wanted. But, now we're thinking maybe we shouldn't either? The La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser is a favorite of hers as well. The dermatologists we spoke to noted a few other considerations when using skin care products on acne-prone skin. First off, its 100% organic. There can be various causes of acne, including hormonal fluctuations, certain foods and stress. The serum, which contains 10% azelaic acid to help brighten your complexion, is cruelty-free, vegan and gentle enough to use up to twice a day, according to the brand. Of course, acne is not reserved for the face. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Cond Nast. Tried and true by 1000+ Amazon and Ulta reviewers combined, its safe to say that the number one spot is theirs. Oil! Absorbs! Plus, we get enough of its minimal packaging design. To revist this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories. By signing up you agree to our User Agreement and Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement. When you think you finally got rid of a pimple, but a ha it actually turns into a dark spot. That's exactly what Joanna Vargas' Dawn Mask did to us, because we don't really need to be spending $75 on sheet masks. What is tiger grass you ask? The compound helps shed the top, dead layers of our skin and can help with inflammation, said Stevenson. 2022 SELECT | All rights reserved. You can apply it either two or three times a week it can also be used as a spot treatment on stubborn breakouts, according to the brand.

And, it should also be affordable. The brand says the moisturizer offers 48-hour hydration and can be used on the face, neck and hands. The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution does give your skin a tingling sensation, so we wouldn't recommend for sensitive skin but it's not unbearable, and it's also under $10. This fragrance-free acne face wash from expert-favorite brand La Roche-Posay contains a 2% concentration of salicylic acid Evans said the brand combined the ingredient with LHA to balance the cleanser and make it gentler on the skin. The latest fashion news, beauty coverage, celebrity style, fashion week updates, culture reviews, and videos on Vogue.com. There are many things that can cause acne, whether youre a teenager or an adult. Luckily, weve found the perfect antidote: Murads Acne Body Wash. For $43, this gentle exfoliator is ideal for oily and combination skin, with a refreshing formula that treats and prevents body breakouts on not only the back, but also the chest and shoulders. Most dermatologists recommend taking up birth control or getting on isotretinoin, which are shoe-in methods that are, more or less, guaranteed to work. Not only will you see an improvement in your skin (think: brighter and clearer), but youre also supporting a cruelty-free, vegan brand. Select is editorially independent. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time. Otherwise, Kosas Good Body Skin gently exfoliates, brightens, and soothes with the help of an AHA blend, fruit enzymes, and allantoin. This face mask from Mario Badescu contains sulfur, the oldest known ingredient to help with skin inflammation, according to Graber. AND will not absorb your skins moisture or whatever cream you apply before bed. While it is advised to consult with your doctor around dietary guidance and curating the proper beauty regimen, our experts share that salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, and topical retinoids like adapalene are the most effective ingredients to treat and prevent acne. No matter what skin type you have we recommend putting it on a pesky blemish before bed and letting the product work its magic while you get your beauty sleep. One of the best skin care tips we've read was from Frank Ocean's mom, she said: "don't let guys put their dirty hands on your face." Acne is a complicated disease which involves many triggers, including genetics, hormonal influence and bacteria, Evans explained. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn a commission. You can also get the brands AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion, which has SPF 30. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Erum Ilyas previously recommended this face moisturizer from La Roche-Posay due to its soothing and hydrating properties. Adapalene is a type of retinoid used to treat mild to moderate acne and blackheads. Is there anything it can't do? Experts told us that retinoids promote skin cell turnover and cure inflammation to deep clean pores and prevent new pimples from forming. Its like purifying your face instead of the air. Discover the best acne products to clear skin, reduce hyperpigmentation, fight blackheads, and more. Photographed by Annie Leibovitz, Vogue, June 2015, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser, Paulas Choice Pore Normalizing Acne Cleanser, Paulas Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, Moon Juices Acid Potion Resurfacing Exfoliator, Paulas Choice Clear Daily Skin Clearing Treatment, Acne Frees Terminator 10 Acne Spot Treatment. Keep scrolling to discover the very best acne products! All products featured on Teen Vogue are independently selected by our editors. Lucky for me, she decided to leave some of her precious beauty products behind including this drying lotion, which is a fast acting acne spot treatment. Or, even when you think you've beat your face to the gods, and a ha a dark spot and you don't have the right concealer. Mili Godio is an associate reporter for Select on NBC News. Bordone told us Cetaphil is a trustworthy brand for those dealing with acne. A glowing complexion is the goal here and this moisturizer does the trick without making your face feel greased up. Bamboo and charcoal is known for their purifying qualities, so what is it doing in our toner? If youre interested in adding an acne-treating serum or moisturizer to your regimen, consider starting with The Ordinarys Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%a notably affordable option thats recommended by several of our experts. She noted you can get prescription-level azelaic acid at 15% and 20% strengths, but you can also find it in OTC products at a 10% strength. Lipohydroxy acid (LHA) is a derivative of salicylic acid that works very similarly in terms of unclogging pores and exfoliating the skin. So no need to worry about looking too cakey. This oil-free nighttime moisturizer from the brand features niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and other ceramides to provide essential moisture throughout the night, according to the brand. All rights reserved.

This serum contains all of the acids: mandelic, lactic and salicylic Acid, which all help with pigmentation and uneven tone by brightening the skin. The EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen is a favorite of Deignans since its free of heavy moisturizers that could clog pores and contains the natural anti-inflammatory ingredient niacinamide.

Radiance might usually come at a price, but this serum balances out the vitamin C with black chokeberry, an antioxidant that stabilizes the vitamin C for extra hydration. Once you wash it off, you can visibly see the appearance of your pores minimized and skin tone evened out over time. EltaMD's mineral-based sunscreen offers SPF 46 and includes zinc oxide, which experts previously told us provides protection against the sun's UVA and UVB rays while soothing the skin. After last years Shape Tape foundation controversy had customers criticizing Tarte for its lack of diversity in shade ranges, the brand really stepped up its game and introduced a new foundation, Face Tape. Beauty is pain. Board-certified dermatologist Hadley King also recommends Acne Frees Terminator 10 Acne Spot Treatment because it contains calming anti-inflammatory ingredients [that] are helpful to decrease the inflammation in the active pimple., If youre low on time, apply Sunday Rileys Saturn Sulfur treatment for 20 to 30 minutes, then rinse off, to reduce the appearance of breakouts. Plus it exfoliates (mandelic acid), brightens (vitamin C) and soothes (chamomilla recutita extract), now that's what we call a 3-for-1. In fact, her three golden rules to reduce gut inflammation are to cut down on processed foods, limit dairy consumption, and incorporate probiotics into your diet. Paulas Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is one of the most recommended products, and Dr. Green says its gentle enough for daily use. According to Los Angelesbased dermatologist Jessica Wu, hormonal acne can be treated by prescription-strength topical or oral hormone-balancing medication. My mom has sworn by Cetaphil products since she was a teen, so naturally when I became a teen, she bought me some of the brands famous cleanser. With! However, LHA is more gentle and less irritating, according to Dr. Emmy Graber, a board-certified dermatologist and president of The Dermatology Institute of Boston. The biggest beauty stories, trends, and product recommendations. Well, bless aloe vera, thats all. Tag yourself, were the dramatic wooshing sound as this personalized skincare swoops in to inject some power into your routine. Experts recommended each of the following brands and products. Or, for a daily treatment to reduce to look of hyperpigmentation, blemishes, and texture, consider what commerce writer Alexis Bennett calls her holy-grail skin-care product: the Vivant Skin Care Daily Repair Pads. Experts told us acne-fighting products can be used every day salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and azelaic acid, for example, can be used both in the morning and at nighttime. Exfoliating your skin can be a scary feeling sometimes with the tingling sensation, but what's the saying? But everyones skin is unique, the reactions to ingredients differ, and it takes a lot of testing to find the right product. Products that offer hydration and are oil-free can be very helpful for acne, such as a CeraVe everyday moisturizer, said Evans. Its a winner in our book and worth every penny. Apply a few drops in the morning and the night to reward your skin. If you are someone like me who has spent hours on YouTube looking for the best natural acne treatments, then you know that pumpkin is a common ingredient that people try in at-home face masks because the beta-carotene-rich vegetables convert into Vitamin A, which is where retinoids come from. Absorbing all of the oil in our skin, of course!

Experts told us that causes of acne can range from hormonal changes and fluctuations (especially during puberty or menstruation), eating certain foods like dairy or experiencing heightened levels of stress. Kendall Jenner's Bikini Perfectly Blends Into Her Sheer Dress, This Stranger Things Character Was Supposed to Die in Season 4, David Harbour Picked This Euphoria Star to Play Young Hopper, North West's Style Has Been Impeccable Since Day One, These Memes and Tweets About School Are Too Relatable, Lizzo Embraced Barbiecore With a Super Sparkly Fit. Deignan recommended this salicylic acid cleanser from expert-favorite brand Neutrogena to clean out pores and calm acne. Did we mention its hypoallergenic? Dont be surprised to wake up in the morning refreshed and whitehead free! This highly rated liquid leave-on exfoliant from Paulas Choice contains 2% salicylic acid to help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. Clay masks can be a hit or miss, with some leaving your skin dry. This serum is made from 20.5% pure vitamin C aka your dark spot attacker and acne scar fixer-upper. IE 11 is not supported. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement and Your California Privacy Rights. The young persons guide to conquering (and saving) the world. Washing your face with your hands will become a thing of the past thanks to technology. Simply apply on your T-zone, or all over your face depending on your skin situation, when youre feeling extra dry, massage it in, and rinse off with lukewarm water. What else does your face skin need? - Lindsay Peoples Wagner, Teen Vogue Editor-in-Chief. Why? 100% of Sephora customers gave this product five stars, and Sephoras customers, like ourselves, take our acne products seriously so you know that they mean serious business. Adapalene can be used during the day since its more stable than older retinoids, according to Bordone however, if you are going to get a lot of sun during the day, its better to use it at night since it can make your skin more sensitive to the suns UV rays. Though, dermatologist Shari Marchbein says this would be a more holistic approach to treating acne as there isnt enough good evidence to recommend chasteberry for acne and as a caution this supplement may decrease the efficacy of birth control pills/increase the chance of pregnancy.. Its not easy carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders which is what this cleanser does by simultaneously washing away make-up and dirt while deeply cleaning pores, treating blemishes, and preventing new blemishes. In a sea of a million skincare products, which ones are really the best acne treatments? Use this twice a week for an increase in vibrant and radiant skin and also to decrease any blemishes or acne scars you may be struggling to get rid of. This product gently exfoliates the skin, breaking down sebum and debris that are clogging the pores to reveal a smoother, healthier complexion, she explains, Moon Juices Acid Potion Resurfacing Exfoliator, which features a blend of AHAs and BHAs, is Dr. Bowes pick. Dr. Tracy Evans, a board-certified dermatologist and medical director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology, recommended using salicylic acid every other day or a couple of times a week since it can have a drying effect, especially on sensitive skin. Plus, its good for all skin types. This acne treatment reimagines poster acne chemical: benzoyl peroxide. Teen Vogue may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers. Graber said she usually recommends The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Serum to her patients since it can help improve both blemishes and dark spots. When you deal with body acne, particularly bacne, it can be challenging to figure out how to stay clean while also care for your skin. And, did we mention that it also contains luxe oils but wont leave an oily residue? Read: your face wont be feel stripped after using it and your complexion will look great. The dermatologists we spoke to recommended looking for products with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, adapalene and azelaic acid for acne-prone skin. ), we can save you money and time by sharing some good news: after countless hours of testing products, weve found the number one spot treatment and its about to change your life in a very big way. Because of its drying element, Evans said this face wash can be a good option for people with oily skin for more sensitive skin types, she recommended the brands Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser since its less stripping, has niacinamide and provides hydration along with cleansing the skin.. The BHA, salicylic acid, unclogs pores for an overall nonirritating exfoliation with maximum hydration.. 2022 Cond Nast. It's also hypoallergenic and delivers full coverage. With its aloe leaf extract, First Aid Beautys Pure Skin Face Cleanser gently cools your face while cleansing. But, pores and blemishes dont stand a chance with Clarisonics Mia Smart 3-in-1 beauty device emphasis in the word, smart. It's more mild compared to salicylic acid and adapalene, so it may be a more suitable option if you have sensitive skin, according to Dr. Lindsey Bordone, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor of dermatology at Columbia University Medical Center. Whether youve been combating acne since your teenage years, suffer from maskne, or only started breaking out as an adult, the quest to find that right product is always daunting. Catch up on Selects in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date. Issa winner! Our experts recommend products packed with salicylic acid to treat the skin. Raise your hand if youve personally victimized by blackheads? Benzoyl peroxide helps inhibit the growth of the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) on the skin, which is what typically causes the inflammation and lesions seen in acne. Same. Whether your oily skin promotes breakouts or keeps your pores clogged, this vitamin B3, a holy grail skin care ingredient, and mineral serum is the game changer to your routine. Higher strengths only irritate the skin more, so you should look for a lower strength especially if you're just starting out, she advised. She writes, If you want your pores to completely disappear and your face to look as smooth as a dolphins fin, then you have to try these wipes., A good face mask is necessary for any self-care night or a skin refresh, so why not use one that has acne-fighting benefits too? It sucks because you never know when their coming, literally the adult version of the boogeyman. Another adapalene gel recommended by Campbell, La Roche-Posays Effaclar Adapalene Gel also contains 0.1% adapalene to unclog pores and fight blackheads and whiteheads, the brand says. It features a 4% benzoyl peroxide concentration to help clear acne, hyaluronic acid to help retain the skin's natural moisture and niacinamide for a natural anti-inflammatory effect, according to Deignan. Rose Hip Oil is another holy grail skin care product that does a multitude of things. We admit $92 is a steep price, but when getting rid of those pesky dark spots, sometimes investment is key. Fresh Vitamin C is key so these are practically straight squeezed from an orange and air shipped from Korea. For those with sensitive skin, Bordone suggested using acne-fighting products every other day at first and patch-testing them to make sure theres no allergic reaction. Beautycounters Countercontrol SOS Acne Spot Treatment is an all-natural product that contains wintergreen and rosebay willow (natural sources of salicylic acid), zinc (helps blemishes to heal) and allantoin (helps maintain hydration) that resolves blemishes quickly and doesnt dry out the skin too much. The combination of sulfur and zinc oxide in this mask draws out impurities and gets rid of excess oil, while calamine and cucumber can cool the skin and ensure you dont feel irritated afterward, Mario Badescu says. While many people like this product for its ability to appease keratosis pilaris (KP) an issue I just realized I have and remove dead skin cells, it is best for anyone with normal, dry and combination skin types, exfoliating the skin and leaving it looking brighter and smoother. Save yourself some time and energy, and let someone else do the work for you. Sulfur is a main ingredient in this cleanser, it reduces and prevents pesky blemishes, while the tea tree leaf oil helps to keep overactive skin under control. Adapalene is available in 0.1% and 0.3% strengths and its the first OTC retinoid treatment approved for acne it works to regulate the turnover of cells lining the pores to reduce clogging, according to Deignan. To treat blackheads and whiteheads, Bowe likes the Skinceuticals Silymarin CFan oil-free vitamin C serum that can also help reduce signs of aging. Or perhaps the iS Clinical Cleansing Complex is more your speed to gently clarify pores and blemishes for a smoother complexion.

These are available as prescriptions for more stubborn acne, but there are plenty of over-the-counter products that offer these ingredients at a lower dosage. Sunscreen! Do you ever wear a sheet mask and wonder to yourself is this even working? Dont worry, we also felt a strong urge to take a bite out of it, when we first saw the jelly-like texture of the mask. This highly concentrated product soothes the skin while also helping with redness and irritation. This means it prevents sleep creases that can eventually turn into permanent wrinkles (ah!). Protecting your skin against digital overexposure is just as important as protecting it from the sun. We spoke to board-certified dermatologists about the skin care ingredients that can fight acne, inflammation and dark spots. The Differin gel that many of us may have been prescribed to treat pubescent acne may still be worth a place in your acne-fighting routine. Most people get acne at some point in their lifetime, and the underlying cause of a breakout may vary depending on the type of acne. She notes that while a combination of factors contributes to the formation of acne, including hormones, genetics, environmental factors, stress, skin care, and diet, at the end of the day, the main cause is an overproduction of sebum and clogged pores. Nonetheless, the right treatment goes back to what kind of acne and skin you have. It features LHA, which Graber recommended as a more gentle acne solution.

Its a self warming mask and scrub ((that's also vegan and paraben-free), so I like to put it on before I get in the shower and massage for 30 seconds then let it soak in with the steam.