young woman using Nivea Derma Skin Exfoliator

How To Get Rid of Skin Blemishes?

Find out the 3 main different types of blemishes and how to prevent them from forming with a simple skincare routine.

What's in this article:

What Are Skin Blemishes?

As the name suggests, blemish-prone skin is prone to developing pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, or other types of blemishes. They are caused by a combination of factors, including excess oil production, clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation. Hormonal changes, stress, and certain medications can also contribute to the development of blemish-prone skin. 

People often find they experience pimple breakouts across their faces. However, some people experience spot breakouts across their back or even their chests. In these cases, it’s a good idea to seek medical advice as you may have moderate  to severe acne.

Different Types of Blemishes:

Generally, blemishes refer to 3 main types of breakouts: pimples, whiteheads or blackheads.
woman using Nivea Cellular Luminous AntiSpot cream
  1. Pimples: Small, inflamed spots that develop due to the buildup of oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria in clogged pores, leading to swelling and redness. 

  2. Whiteheads: These are small, white bumps that form when pores are clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Whiteheads remain closed at the surface of the skin and are typically not inflamed. 
     
  3. Blackheads: These are small, clogged pores, which can be black or yellow in colour. Blackheads can become inflamed if picked, so it’s advisable to put your tweezers away and opt for a good cleanser instead. 

A blemish could also refer to any skin imperfection, including dark spots, melasma, and acne marks. However, these have different causes and treatments than breakout types of blemishes, so it’s important to follow specific advice tailored to them.

5 Main Causes of Blemishes

  1. Excess Oil Production: Your skin naturally produces an oily mixture (sebum) to keep itself moisturised. However, overproduction of sebum, especially during hormonal changes or stress, can clog the pores and cause pimples. When pores clog with excess oil and dead skin cells, bacteria thrive. Their growth triggers inflammation, causing redness, swelling, and bigger pimples to form. 

  2. Hormonal Changes: Blemishes may sometimes be linked to a shift in hormones, which is why people will often experience their first bout of pimple breakouts during their teenage years. It’s important to note that it can occur at any point in your life. They can increase around your period, or even when you're feeling stressed. This can increase oil production and trigger breakouts. 

  3. Genetics: Genetics may influence spot breakouts by affecting oil production, inflammation response, hormone regulation, and bacterial defense, impacting pimple development and severity. 

  4. Environment: If you live or work in a city, your skin is likely to be exposed to pollution, dust and dirt. This can stick to your face and block your pores – so it’s very important to wash your face at the end of every day. 

  5. Diet: A diet high in refined sugars, processed foods, and dairy may increase inflammation and oil production, leading to clogged pores and blemishes. Additionally, certain foods may trigger hormonal imbalances, which can worsen blemishes and other skin issues. 

4 Tips for Reducing Skin Blemishes

  1. Diet and Hydration: While the connection between diet and pimples is still debated, many find that reducing sugar and dairy can help. Drinking plenty of water can also help to keep your skin hydrated, which may improve skin's overall condition. 
     
  2. Regular Cleansing: Keep your face clean by washing twice a day with a gentle cleanser. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can irritate the skin and make skin blemish symptoms worse. 
     
  3. Stress Management: Stress can trigger pimples for some people. Practices like yoga, meditation, or regular exercise can help keep stress levels in check. 

  4. Sun Protection: Sunscreen helps protect your skin from UV rays that can worsen pimple scars and inflammation. Opt for a light, non-greasy sunscreen such as the NIVEA Sun UV Face Specialist Derma Skin Clear SPF50+. Its formula, developed for normal, oily and blemishe-prone a skin, is enriched with NIVEA’s Anti-blemish Complex and Niacinamide. Thanks to these ingredients, combined with UVA/UVB filters and other ingredients in the formula, it helps to protect the skin and prevent blemishes by absorbing excess oil from skin surface, leaving an 8-hour* matte effect. 

*Instrumental test, 35 volunteers

Can You Reduce Marks That Form on Blemish Prone Skin?

Post-blemish marks, including dark spots and hyperpigmentation, can linger after blemishes heal due to inflammation and melanin production. 

Reduce the appearance of post blemish dark marks with the help of the NIVEA Cellular Luminous630 Anti Dark-Spot Post-Acne Marks Serum. It contains Luminous630 to reduce and lighten post-acne marks, Salicylic Acid for exfoliation, Hyaluronic Acid for hydration, and Green Tea Extract to help with sebum balance.
Facts Overview

Blemish-Prone Skin

Causes of Blemishes: Excess oil production, clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation. 

Helpful Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Glycolic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Pro-Vitamin B5, Vitamin C, and Tea Tree Oil.  

Prevention Tips: Keep a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and avoid face-touching. Use sunscreen daily to prevent the appearance of marks due to hyperpigmentation.

Skincare Routine for Blemish-Prone Skin

 

1. Cleanse (AM and PM)

Start with a gentle cleanser, the NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Wash Gel is especially formulated for blemish prone skin. With Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide, it deeply cleanses, purifies pores and removes excess oil.

Gently massage the cleanser onto damp skin using circular motions, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Avoid harsh scrubbing, as it can irritate the skin and worsen pimples.

Cleansers
NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Night Exfoliator

2. Scrub (2-3 times a week – PM only)

The NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Anti-Blemish Scrub can be used 2-3 times a week. Apply a small amount to damp skin, gently massage for 1 minute, then rinse to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores for smoother, clearer-looking skin.
Exfoliators

3. Toning (Optional – AM and PM)

Apply a toner formulated for blemish-prone skin using a cotton pad or your fingertips. Look for ingredients like Salicylic Acid or Witch Hazel, which can help unclog pores and reduce inflammation.
Toners

4. Serum (AM only)

Apply a serum formulated for blemished skin. Try the NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Rebalance & Protect Serum formulated with Pro-Vitamin B5, Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid. It can help to protect your skin barrier and reduce the reappearance of blemishes.

5. Chemical Exfoliation

This helps to remove dead cells by breaking the ties that bind them together, to unblock the pores and support the skin's natural renewal process. For the evening routine, opt for the NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Night Exfoliator and leave on overnight. Enriched with Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide, it helps to clear your skin complexion in just 7 days*. 

Although it is intended for daily use, some people may be more sensitive to chemical exfoliation. If this is your case, don't hesitate to space out the applications, particularly at the start of treatment. 

*Consumer test, 97 volunteers

6. SPF (AM only)

Find a face sunscreen that works for your skin, The NIVEA SUN UV Specialist Derma Skin Clear SPF 50+ Fluid this mild non-greasy fluid with Anti-blemish Complex + Niacinamide. It protects the skin and helps to prevent from blemishes by absorbing the excess oil from the skins surface.

Can Different Skin Types be Blemish-Prone?

Yes, different skin types can be blemish-prone. Oily skin often develops blemishes due to excess sebum, while dry skin can break out if irritated or compromised. Combination skin may see blemishes in oily areas, and even normal skin can occasionally develop blemishes due to factors such as hormonal fluctuation and stress.

Discover NIVEA Derma Skin Clear - Formulated for Blemish-Prone Skin

NIVEA Derma Skin Clear range
Controlling blemishes can be challenging and might often impact self-esteem. NIVEA aims to enhance your skincare routine, helping you to feel confident in your skin. 

The innovative NIVEA Derma Skin Clear range is designed to help reduce, and prevent the reappearance of, blemishes. Formulated with Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, and Glycolic Acid, it helps to refine pores and reduce the appearance of blackheads with regular use. 

To further support your skincare routine, try the NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Rebalance & Protect Serum formulated with Pro-Vitamin B5, Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid. It can help to protect your skin barrier and reduce the reappearance of blemishes. 

Always read product instructions carefully.
Discover NIVEA Derma Skin Clear

Summary

Taking care of blemish-prone skin requires understanding your skin type and choosing the right products and routines. Proper facial cleansing, managing skin blemishes, and tailoring your skincare routine to your specific needs—whether oily, dry, or sensitive. Using quality products and finding a good skin care regime will help keep your skin free from impurities, but it can be tough to keep on top of at times. 

Remember, if you’re experiencing pimple breakouts that last longer than 2 months, or if the severity is having a significant impact on your happiness, you should contact your doctor for further help and advice. 

FAQs

What are skin blemishes?

Blemishes refer to any imperfections or marks on the skin, often including pimples, dark spots, and scars. Most often, however, the term is reserved for pimples, blackheads and other acne-prone skin imperfections.

What skincare tips are best for sensitive, blemish-prone skin?

Choose products against imperfections that are also suitable for sensitive skin. Formulas containing  ingredients like Aloe Vera and Chamomile can also help to soothe the skin.

How should I care for dry, blemish-prone skin?

Use gentle, hydrating cleansers and moisturisers with ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin to help provide your skin with moisture.

Which skincare products are best for oily, blemish-prone skin?

Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic products with ingredients like Salicylic Acid or Niacinamide. Avoid heavy, greasy formulations.

Is it necessary to see a dermatologist for persistent blemishes?

If over-the-counter treatments or cosmetics aren’t effective or if you have severe pimple breakouts, it's best to consult a dermatologist for personalised treatment options.

What role does genetics play in blemishes?

Genetics can influence how prone you are to developing blemishes, as well as how your skin responds to treatments.

Is it safe to pop blemishes?

Popping blemishes can lead to infection and scarring. It's necessary to avoid popping and instead use proper skincare treatments.

Can blemishes leave scars?

Yes, untreated or improperly treated skin blemishes can leave scars, especially if there's significant inflammation or picking.

Is there a way to reduce scars left behind by blemishes?

This will depend on the type of scars or marks. In some cases, the inflammation caused by skin imperfections can lead to hyperpigmentation of the affected area, in the form of brown marks., The NIVEA Cellular Luminous630 Anti Dark-Spot Post-Acne Marks Serum formulated with Salicylic Acid helps to reduce these post blemish dark marks and prevent their occurrence. It's also important to use sun protection on a daily basis, as UV rays can have an impact on healing.

How long do skin blemishes typically last?

The duration varies depending on the type and severity of the blemish. Some may resolve within a few days to weeks, while others, like cysts, may take longer. Dark pigment spots, on the other hand, can take months or even years to disappear.

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