How do I prevent pimples?
- 2 min reading time
A spot forms when a pore gets clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. Bacteria that naturally live on your skin thrive there, and the pore becomes inflamed. Hormones, stress and products that don't suit your skin make it worse. You prevent most spots with a simple routine that keeps your pores clear, and a spot that's already there is best left alone as much as possible.
What helps against spots?
Start with cleansing, morning and evening, with a gentle cleanser that doesn't leave your skin feeling tight. A wipe removes make-up, but it doesn't actually get your skin clean.
Then add one active that keeps your pores clear. Salicylic acid (BHA) dissolves sebum inside the pore, which makes it the best-known choice for blackheads and spots. Niacinamide helps your skin keep oil production in balance and makes redness less visible. Finish with a light moisturiser, even if your skin is oily, and with SPF during the day. Skin that dries out actually starts producing more oil.
You'll find everything for spot-prone skin in the acne-prone skin collection. Not sure what skin type you have? Read everything about different skin types first.
What do you do with a spot that's already there?
Don't squeeze it, however tempting. You push the inflammation deeper into the skin and increase the chance of a mark or small scar. Find out why in squeezing pimples? Don't.
Put a pimple patch on it instead. This small hydrocolloid sticker absorbs fluid from a spot with a whitehead, keeps dirt and your fingers away and lets it heal more calmly. Which patch suits which spot is explained in pimple patches: do they work and which one should you choose. All patches are in the pimple patches collection.
Myths and facts about spots
Toothpaste on a spot helps
Myth. Toothpaste is made for your teeth, not your skin. It can irritate and dry out your skin, which makes the spot even redder.
Make-up gives you spots
Partly true. Make-up itself doesn't have to be a problem, but leftovers that stay on overnight can clog your pores. Cleanse your skin properly every evening and you can keep wearing make-up.
Exercise means fewer spots
Partly true. Moving is good for your skin, but sweat and oil left on your skin after a workout can clog your pores. So wash your face after exercising.
When should you see a doctor?
Do you have lots of inflamed, painful spots, bumps deep under the skin or scars, or is a good routine still not helping after a few months? Then see your GP. They can help you further or refer you to a dermatologist.
