If you’re prone to breakouts, you might think that the best approach to getting rid of them is using products to spot-treat the affected areas. According to Allure Magazine, this method can definitely help to reduce the lifespan of a zit, but it’s not very effective if your ultimate goal is to end up with clear skin.

That’s because prevention is the key to a blemish-free complexion. If you’re spot-treating your pimples, you’re only making sure that the ones you have will go away – you’re not preventing new ones from popping up right after the old ones are gone.

“You need to prevent acne from forming, and that means treating skin that’s prone to pimples even if there are none present,” dermatologist Karyn Grossman told the news source.

To do this, use a facial cleanser with benzoyl peroxide or glycolic or salicylic acid. Then, use an acne cream all over your face. To prevent dryness and irritation, only use a very thin layer, then use a moisturizer over it. You should notice less breakouts as a result.