The Very Best Products To Treat Spots And Acne-Prone Skin

There's nothing quite as bad as waking up to a smattering of under the skin pimples or an angry red blemish that's just asking to be squeezed. It happens to all of us, and quite often tends to coincide with a big event as stress can be a huge trigger. And while maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce the chance of unfortunate breakouts, there are also a whole host of products with savvy-skin care formulas that can really help calm down blemishes and prevent those bad boys from cropping up in the first place.

What causes acne?

There are only a few things worse than acne. Ok, that’s an exaggeration, but for those who suffer with acne it really is a very frustrating and upsetting condition. Acne can leave behind significant psychological and physical problems, and can stem from unbalanced hormones, menstruation, emotional stress and diet. Acne can effect self-esteem, mood and relationships, and one study actually links clear skin to a better quality of life.

American Academy of Dermatology states that acne is caused by the over-production of oil which clogs the pores and increases the bacteria on the skin’s surface.

Can your diet cause acne?

There have been studies that link acne to a Western diet, which is typically high in dairy, refined sugars and white carbs such as rice, pasta and white bread. It is especially believed that dairy can play havoc with those who suffer with hormonal acne, as the hormones in dairy can further unbalance hormone levels. A more balanced diet full of colourful fruit and vegetables could improve your skin and reduce the chance of breaking out.

How is acne treated?

To treat mild or severe acne doctors usually prescribe topical medications such as products containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics and retinoids, but you can also purchase products yourself that aren't as strong but can still aid acne.

Some women with acne will benefit from taking the contraceptive pill, but all women react to birth control pills in different ways, so nothing is guaranteed.

Should you pop your spots?

Short answer: no. Squeezing and popping your spots can cause bacteria to actually delve deeper into the area and aggravate the skin further. An alternative? Meet the new pimple patches - an easy, effective way to treat blemishes that target the area with spot-busting ingredients.

What is the best face cleanser for acne-prone skin?

If you have acne-prone skin the last thing you want to do is irritate it. When buying a face wash you don’t need to splash out on a super expensive one, as it only stays on your face for a few minutes a day. Look for one that says ‘mild’, ‘oil-free’ (as acne-prone skin is already too oily) and ‘non-comedogenic’ (non-pore clogging).

Stay out of the sun

Getting a tan when you have spots may seem like a good idea because your spots become less visible when you are sun-kissed, however sun damage from UV rays will darken the marks left from a pimple, and cause hyperpigmentation and discolouration - a long lasting issue.

We’ve rounded up the best products to treat acne-prone skin...

READ MORE: Everything You Need To Know About Pimple Patches – Do They Really Keep Spots At Bay?