Fact: Pimples and breakouts are completely normal. Unlike chronic or persistent acne – which should definitely be seen to by a trusted medical expert – the odd spot can appear because of hormonal fluctuations, a disrupted barrier, or as a by-product of overindulgence (we’re looking at you festive season!)
Whatever the cause, it never hurts to have a few spot-treatment hacks on hand, and what better place to gather the best than Skinstitut HQ? Naturally, we’re obsessed with all things cosmeceutical and spend our days surrounded by experts, so it's fair to say we’ve picked up a trick or two over the years.
8 Tips For Achieving Clear Skin
“I love using our Expert Refine AHA Glycolic Toner in the morning, and Retinol Serum in the evening. I get pretty bad hormonal acne and find that using these products separately in my routine allows me to reap the clearing benefits of both, without irritation.” — Georgia, Senior Marketing Manager
Try:
Expert Refine AHA Glycolic Toner
“A rough or flaky spot is harder to conceal than a smooth one, so I like to take a tiny amount of Glycolic Scrub 14% and gently buff away any flakes. That way, makeup sits nicely instead of settling into cracks (which leaves the spot more obvious looking than it was to begin with).” — Emily, Social Media Manager
Try:
“My go-tos are Laser Aid and Enzymatic Micro Peel. For red, painful spots I’ll use Laser Aid as an anti-inflammatory spot treatment, but for irritated skin or multiple breakouts, I’ll alternate Laser Aid and Enzymatic Micro Peel, leaving them on for 15 to 20 minutes as a mask. The duo works so well, keeping my face smooth, calm and clear.” — Zoe, Head of Digital
Try:
To help keep my skin clear I love skin cycling [a skin-care routine that allows for ‘rest days’ during the week, so that your skin can repair itself after using certain products] . I find it helps to stop me going over the top on active ingredients and potentially damaging my skin’s barrier. This is my current regime:
- Night 1: I’ll exfoliate with Glycolic Scrub 14%.
- Night 2: No active ingredients.
- Night 3: Retinol! I love the Expert Reveal Retinol Face Oil.
- Night 4: No actives again.
- Repeat!” — Maddy, Digital Specialist
Try:
Expert Reveal Retinol Face Oil
“When I feel a breakout coming on, I like to dab some Glycolic Cleanser 12% on the pimple and sleep overnight. The acids work to unclog the pore and reduce swelling.” — Emma, Brand Manager
Try:
“I find ice is a great way to reduce swelling, especially when I’ve got one of those large, angry spots under the skin. I like to wrap it in a tissue and hold it on the affected area for 30 seconds.” — Sophie, Social Media Manager
“I am really prone to scarring after a breakout, so I swear by Niacinamide to restore clarity. The new Niacinamide 10% Power Serum is on high rotation. Not only does it prevent spots by regulating oil production, it also brightens and refines skin tone.” — Emily, Social Media Manager
Try:
“Despite my skin being oily, I love the Expert Replenish Squalane Cleansing Oil. It works to rebalance my complexion, remove excess sebum and dissolve makeup and sunscreen. When paired with the Glycolic Cleanser 12%, this is an effective duo, keeping my skin clear and smooth.” — Sophie, Social Media Manager
Try:
Expert Replenish Squalane Cleansing Oil
Want more intel on how to keep your skin clear and healthy? Read up on the lifecycle of a pimple here, and explore our Clearing range here.
