There are quite a few different types of acne but there are some key differences between them and therefore slightly different ways to treat them.

Whiteheads/blackheads: when oil and dead skin becomes trapped in the pore it results in either whiteheads which are closed, small white spots or blackheads which are open meaning the trapped material becomes oxidised and turns black.

Pimples: when bacteria, along with oil and dead skin, is trapped inside the pore inflammation is caused creating a larger, and more sensitive spot with a white head.

Cystic Acne: when bacteria has penetrated more deeply into the skin it creates painful and hard bumps. This type of acne has the greatest chance of leaving scarring.

Hormones are one of the most common causes, other than having an oily skin type, of oil overproduction. For people who experience periods, pregnancy and menopause in particular there is no normal state that your skin is permanently in as your hormones change depending on your menstrual cycle and as you age. This means that regardless of skin type you may notice yourself breaking out at unexpected moments.

If you have dehydrated skin then regardless of your skin type you may notice that you are producing more oil than normal and subsequently experiencing breakouts. Dehydrated skin usually results from climate changes and using overly stripping skincare as these dry your skin out causing it to compensate by producing more sebum than it needs. It’s important to find a hydrating skincare routine that will compensate for this but still suit your skin type. Refer to our oily, dry, and combination skin guides for more information.

There are some simple things you can be doing to try and prevent breakouts before they happen. Firstly, review your current skincare routine and remove any products with irritating ingredients like denatured alcohols, mint extracts, or eucalyptus. Likewise, if you have sensitive skin anything with fragrance can stress your skin out causing it to breakout. If you do breakout, avoid following myths like using toothpaste as this will irritate the skin more and even slow down the healing process. If you wear make-up then remove it properly at night by double cleansing which will help to prevent clogged pores. If you start breaking out more than normal and there is no clear reason why then please consult a dermatologist.