Key Points at a Glance:
- Stress and an unhealthy diet are often to blame
- Blemished skin is not a skin type
- pH-neutral products help
- Pimples and blackheads are caused by clogged pores
For many of us, puberty marks the beginning of problems with blemished skin. Some develop small pimples that go away on their own, while others suffer from severe acne. This is primarily due to hormonal changes. But it’s not just teenagers going through puberty who suffer from acne. Adults often struggle with it as well. Hormonal imbalances can be one cause, but stress and an unhealthy diet are also frequent (contributing) factors. Other factors can include genetic predisposition, improper skincare, stopping birth control pills, or certain medications. However, with the right skincare routine, you can combat blemished skin:
- Don't squeeze them! Even though it can be tempting at times and it's difficult, it's best not to squeeze pimples yourself. There's a high risk of scarring and further inflammation.
- Instead of trying out the latest skincare products, opt for pH-neutral products when cleansing your face. Washing your face too often can make your skin worse, so you shouldn't cleanse it too frequently.
- Creams containing fat or oil clog the pores and should be avoided. These products can make blemished skin even worse.
- It's best not to touch your face with your hands, since there are bacteria on your hands.
- A healthy diet and plenty of fluids (water) can also have a positive effect on your skin.
Pimples aren't the same as blackheads
The terms “pimple” and “blackhead” are often used interchangeably. But be careful—there is a difference. If you have black spots on your skin, they are clogged pores, known as blackheads. Blackheads often appear on the forehead and nose.
A pimple is also a clogged pore. Bacteria on the skin can cause superficial inflammation, which then leads to the formation of a pimple.
The Difference Between Oily and Dry Skin
Essentially, it’s also important to determine whether the skin is oily or dry. This is particularly important for properly treating blemished skin, which can occur with any skin type. With dry skin, the complexion appears dull and rough. In addition, the skin feels tight and flaky, and red patches may appear. With oily skin, on the other hand, the complexion shines due to excess sebum.
