Instead, clogged pores, pimples and acne-prone skin can be tricky to treat. This can lead to uncertainty and flip-flopping when it comes to skincare and your approach to treating skin that’s acting up.
Adding to the issue is that acne-prone skin is often experiencing sensitivity and inflammation, meaning calming solutions may be required.
Confusing things even more are the causes of breakouts that can include, hormones, stress, over-exfoliation and even sweat build up.
Once thought of as a skin issue unique to teenagers, we now know better – people of all ages commonly experience the skin challenge.
If you’re battling with persistent acne, it’s worth consulting an expert for advice on building a consistent skincare routine.
However if it’s occasional breakouts or spots at that time of the month, these are five proven ingredients known to help.
Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) commonly used in skincare to treat acne and pimples. It’s known for its ability to exfoliate the skin, and works by works by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, making it easier for them to be shed and preventing clogged pores. It also helps to regulate oil production and has anti-inflammatory properties.
You’ll find it in cleansers, serums and spot treatments.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a hero ingredient because it of its versatility. Almost any skin type can benefit from the multi-talented skincare star, meaning its popularity is continuing to grow.
It helps with breakouts as it can regulate your skin’s oil production, but it also reduces inflammation, strengthens the skin’s natural barrier, evens skin tone and treats post-acne dark marks.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Most often used in spot treatment products, Benzoyl Peroxide works by helping kill off the bacteria called P.acnes on the surface of skin that can cause acne. It also helps soften and remove outer layers of the skin to prevent clogged pores.
It is also used in cleansers for acne-prone skin, but can be irritating and drying, so care needs to be taken to ensure skin receives essential hydration.
Retinol
Most commonly used in anti-aging products thanks to its ability to help improve fine lines and wrinkles, retinol can often improve acne and breakouts too.
Retinol and other retinoids work by increasing cell turnover. That turnover works to exfoliate the surface of skin, helping unblock clogged pores and bacteria that lead to acne breakouts. It’s most often used in all-over face creams or serums.
The downside of retinol is that it can cause dryness, flaking and sensitivity, but comes in a variety of strengths. It’s important to start slowly with a low concentration, only using every second or third night and building up your skin’s tolerance.
Tea Tree Oil
If you want to go the all-natural route, tea tree oil has been used for generations as skin relief. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help fight acne bacteria and calm the related redness. The oil is most often used as a spot treatment, applied directly to breakouts rather than a wider area.
