Five Quick Rules Spots and Blemishes

Whether you're a teen with skin troubles or an adult with aggravated skin, when it comes to oily skin it's a case of caring for your skin type and playing by the rules to help banish blemishes.

Spots and blemishes – the facts.

Spots and blemishes are most commonly associated with teenage skin but can also occur in adult life too. "Blemishes are a result of increased oil gland activity," Dr Nick Lowe explains, meaning that people with oilier skin types are more susceptible to spots and blemishes.

Rule one: Don't skip on skin care.

Boots specialist advisor Crian Wilson explains oily skin still needs to be moisturised. "Use only proven non-pore blocking products that are specially designed for skin prone to oiliness" he advises.

Rule two: Be gentle.

While it's important to adopt a daily routine that's tailored to your needs, Dr Lowe warns about the risks of being too vigorous. "Don't over cleanse blemish-prone skin, as this can irritate it," he advises.

Rule three: Use a fine facial scrub once or twice a week.

Crian points out that it's important to use facial scrubs on blemish-prone skin. "As scrubs are exfoliating they do have benefits in unblocking pores and helping to prevent blemishes," he explains. Dr Lowe adds: "Make sure you're gentle and don't do this more than twice a week, as this can make skin dry and red."

Rule four: Eat healthily.

Diet can have a huge impact on your skin. If you're particularly prone to spots and blemishes Crian advises eating as healthily as possible and drinking lots of water to help create a clearer complexion.

Rule five: Don't squeeze spots.

Tempting as it may be, Clinique's executive director of research and development Dr Tom Mammone explains that squeezing spots can traumatise the skin. "When blemishes are squeezed, the irritation can cause redness, swelling, inflammation and spreading of bacteria. Scarring may also develop," he warns.

Ranges to consider for blemish-prone skin:

AQUABALANCE for Oily Skin (available from 14th July) • Why not try AQUABALANCE Clarifying Moisturiser Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions • Why not try Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Cleansing Bar for Face and Body Dr Nick Lowe Anti-Blemish • Why not try Dr Nick Lowe Anti-Blemish Spot Gel Good Things • Why not try Good Things Fresh Start Cleanser Simple Spotless Skin • Why not try Simple Spotless Skin Blackhead Eliminating Face Scrub

For more information on spots, blemishes and acne read Skin Conditions: Spots at BootsWebMD. If your skin condition worsens or becomes more problematic consult your GP for advice.

Read more like this:
Five Quick Rules: Ageing Skin and Wrinkles
Five Quick Rules: Sensitive Skin

Related categories:
Skin Care
Clinique
Dr Nick Lowe
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