Skin blemishes: different types, causes and solutions.
Skin blemishes encompass a range of skin disorders that can occur at any age and on different parts of the body. While acne is often the first to come to mind, there is a wider range of skin problems associated with blemishes, each with its own characteristics and triggers. Understanding the underlying causes, types of blemishes, and available solutions can help you take a more effective approach to healthier skin.
Causes of skin blemishes
Although poor hygiene is often blamed, skin blemishes are often the result of a combination of internal and external factors. Genetics plays a key role, with family history influencing predisposition to acne and pigmentation issues. Additionally, skin types, aging, hormonal imbalances, and even sleep quality can contribute to these issues. Chronic sun exposure and an unbalanced diet can also worsen blemishes.
Types of skin imperfections
Skin imperfections come in many forms, and it's important to know what they are so you can treat them effectively and choose the right products:
Visible pores : Enlarged pores can result from increased sebum production, loss of skin elasticity, or enlarged hair follicles. They are often located on the nose and cheeks.
Blackheads : These small black bumps form when pores become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. They are common in the T-zone of the face.
Whiteheads : Unlike blackheads, these small, flesh-colored bumps form beneath the skin's surface and are often found around the hairline and on the cheeks.
Papules : These red bumps are caused by a buildup of sebum in the hair follicles, creating an environment conducive to inflammation.
Pustules : Pustules are small, pus-filled bumps, also resulting from sebum buildup and inflammation.
Nodules and cysts : These deeper and often painful lesions are associated with more severe forms of acne and often require professional treatment.
Dark spots : Dark spots, such as sunspots and melasma, are also considered skin blemishes and can result from excessive sun exposure or hormonal imbalances.
Scars : Acne scars can persist long after the spots have disappeared, taking different forms such as sunken or raised scars.
Solutions to get rid of it
To get rid of blemishes, it's important to address the causes that can be addressed. Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, protect yourself from the sun with daily sunscreen, avoid touching your face, and change your towels and pillowcases regularly to reduce the risk of infection and worsening skin problems. For more serious issues, consider professional treatments. To effectively treat skin blemishes and take a comprehensive approach, use skincare products tailored to your skin type.
Combat visible pores and blackheads:
Q+A Niacinamide Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser
PAULA'S CHOICE Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Exfoliating Gel
SOME BY MI Bye Bye Blackhead 30 Days Miracle Green Tea
AXIS-Y Mugwort Pore Clarifying Wash Off Pack
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Poremizing Light Gel Cream
Combat whiteheads, papules and pustules:
COSRX AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid
COSRX Master Patch Original Fit
ANUA Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
THE ORDINARY Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
SOME BY MI Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum
Fight dark spots and scars:
BEAUTY OF JOSEON Glow Deep Serum Rice + Alpha-Arbutin
HARU HARU WONDER Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner (sensitive skin)
AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum
PAULA'S CHOICE Discoloration Repair Serum