What’s the best topical treatment for acne?
As you may have noticed, every face is different. Some get their spots under control with over-the-counter stuff from the pharmacy. Others need prescription-only gear. It’s about finding what’s right for you.
Are squeezing blackheads, whiteheads and spots the best way to get rid of acne?
Not really. At best, it can make your symptoms worse. At worst, it can leave you scarred. Don’t get sucked into that Dr. Pimple-Popper feed, just leave them alone.
What’s the treatment for acne?
Our core treatments focus on keeping your pores open, slowing down your skin layer production (keratinisation for those playing at home), and decreasing the amount of bacteria of the skin. Your bespoke treatment plan could include one or a combo of the following: over-the-counter cream/gel/ointment, prescription cream/gel/ointment or topical/oral antibiotics.
How quickly will my acne subside?
Typically you’ll see results after a few weeks of treatment, but it tends to get worse before it gets better as your skin gets used to your new regime. A lot of people see a flare-up in the first 4-8 weeks of treatment. You should try to stick with your treatment plan for 3 months before deciding to switch things up, and remember – the most effective way to treat acne is to be consistent.
What steps can I take to prevent acne from happening in the first place?
Honestly, there’s no silver bullet, but there are steps you can take to make your skin better.
Wash your face in warm water twice a day using a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser (Cetaphil or Dove bar). Use your hands rather than a towel or washer as sometimes they damage your skin. It seems obvious, but by removing dirt and excess oil, you’re decreasing the chance of your skin peeling, drying, and cracking. Gentle is key, because aggressively scrubbing can damage your pores and make your acne worse. Steer clear of oil-based products or makeup that can clog your pores and if you use hair products, lotions, or cosmetics - make sure they’re "non-comedogenic" so they don’t clog your follicles and glands.