Blemishes are skin imperfections that occur when pores become clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. They can appear as blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or deeper cysts, and they affect people of all skin types, not just those with oily skin. Browse our full range of targeted products for blemish-prone skin to find the right fit for your routine.

Blemishes are primarily caused by clogged pores, which happen when excess sebum mixes with dead skin cells and bacteria. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, diet, and even touching your face frequently can all contribute to breakouts. External factors like using comedogenic skincare products or not cleansing properly after wearing makeup may also play a role.

Blackheads are open comedones, a type of non-inflammatory blemish where the pore remains open at the surface. The dark colour comes from oxidation when the trapped oil and debris are exposed to air, not from dirt. They typically appear on the nose, chin, and forehead, and respond well to salicylic acid treatments.

Whiteheads are closed comedones where a thin layer of skin covers the clogged pore, keeping it sealed. They appear as small, flesh-coloured or white bumps and are commonly found on the face, particularly in the T-zone. Like blackheads, they benefit from gentle exfoliation and non-comedogenic skincare products.

No, blemished skin is not always oily. While excess sebum production is a common factor, people with dry, combination, and even sensitive skin can experience blemishes. Dehydrated skin may actually produce more oil to compensate, which can lead to breakouts, so proper hydration is essential for all skin types.

Acne blemishes are skin imperfections caused by the acne condition, which involves chronic inflammation of the hair follicles and sebaceous glands. They range from mild blackheads and whiteheads to more severe papules, pustules, and cysts. For persistent or severe acne, we recommend consulting the NHS acne guidance or speaking with a dermatologist.

To get rid of skin blemishes, use a consistent skincare routine with gentle cleansing, targeted treatments containing ingredients like salicylic acid, and proper hydration. Avoid picking or squeezing blemishes, as this can cause scarring and push bacteria deeper into the skin. Patience is key, as most treatments take 4-6 weeks to show visible results.

For blemishes, look for serums containing salicylic acid, niacinamide, or azelaic acid, which help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and balance oil production. These ingredients work well for blemish-prone skin without stripping away essential moisture. We recommend patch testing any new serum before applying it to your full face.

A pimple is one type of blemish, but the term blemish refers to a broader category of skin imperfections including blackheads, whiteheads, and dark spots. Think of blemishes as the umbrella term, with pimples (pustules) being just one variety underneath it. Understanding which type you have helps you choose the most effective treatment approach.

No, you should not pop your blemishes as this can push bacteria deeper into the skin, cause scarring, and prolong healing time. Instead, apply a targeted spot treatment and let the blemish heal naturally. If you have a stubborn blemish that won't clear, it may be worth consulting a dermatologist for professional extraction.

For blemish-prone skin, we recommend starting with a targeted spot treatment like our Breakout Control Targeted Blemish Spot Treatment, which contains salicylic acid and sulphur to help clear blemishes while keeping skin balanced. Pair it with a gentle cleanser and a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser to care for blemished skin without clogging pores or stripping away essential hydration.

Absolutely. Even if you have blemished skin, moisturising is an essential step because skipping it can actually cause your skin to produce more excess oil to compensate, which may lead to more breakouts. We recommend choosing a non-comedogenic formula that hydrates without clogging pores, so your skin stays balanced and healthy-looking. Browse our full range of targeted products for blemish-prone skin to find the right fit for your routine.

Most surface-level skin blemishes like whiteheads and small spots typically take around 3 to 7 days to heal, though deeper blemishes such as cysts or nodules can take several weeks. Post-blemish marks, those dark spots left behind after a breakout clears, may linger for weeks or even months without a consistent skincare routine that includes salicylic acid and sun protection. Patience is key, and if your blemished skin hasn't improved after 8 to 12 weeks of consistent care, it may be worth speaking to a dermatologist.