overdrive, making it easier for blockages to
form within the pores. Heightened stress levels
can also trigger the sebaceous glands to
produce more oil and increase inflammation
within the skin, making your complexion look
blotchy and congested.
If your hormones are pretty balanced, your
breakout could be down to the kind of skin
care you are using. Heavy, rich, balmy moistur-
isers can seal the pores and trap bacteria inside,
while serums and exfoliators that are too strong
can strip the skin of vital moisture, forcing it
to produce more sebum to compensate for this
temporary dryness. As this influx of oil over-
whelms the skin, it collects within the pores
leading to, yup, more pimples.
When it’s not your hormones or your skin care,
blame your parents. Research has shown that
if they have struggled with acne during their
life, it’s highly likely that you will too.
Take Action!
If spots and breakouts are a recurring problem
for your skin, it makes sense to introduce more
anti-blemish products into your daily routine.
Ensure you cleanse thoroughly twice a day, to
remove congestion and keep the surface free
of potential nasties, with a mild exfoliating
cleanser such as the Medik8 Pore Cleanse Gel.
You might think a greasy complexion doesn’t
need moisturiser but, without it, the skin will
keep producing sebum at a rapid rate, so switch
to a lighter water-based or oil-free formula
instead. Do this with your sunscreen too. We
like the Heliocare 360° Gel Oil Free SPF50 for its
weightless feel and impressive broad spectrum
protection minus the gloop.
It’s also a good idea to invest in a Glycolic Acid
or Retinol-based serum to treat your skin over-
night, as products packed with these ingredients
will ease blockages, remove dead cells and
maintain smooth texture. Try the Jan Marini
Bioglycolic Cream, which combines Glycolic and
Salicylic Acids for a complete, all-round treat-
ment of old and active blemishes.
ISSUE #05 | 2017 | SkinHealthMagazine.com 15