How to Prevent and Treat Pimples and Acne

What is the Difference Between Acne and Pimples?

Acne and pimples often get mistaken. Although they are closely related, they are not the same. Acne is a broader skin condition that causes repeated or chronic breakouts of pimples. On the other hand, pimples are a specific type of small growth on the skin that can occur as a symptom of acne, or independently.

• Hormonal fluctuations
• Skin type
• Lifestyle
• Diet
• Level of stress
• Genetics

1. EXFOLIATE

Chemical exfoliants can work wonders in reducing types of pimples and acne. Ingredients such as salicylic acid have both exfoliating and anti-bacterial properties, which can help to reduce the formation of pimples. Choose a face scrub that’s right for your skin type like our new NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Face Scrub. Containing Salicylic Acid, Sea Salt and Niacinamide, it unclogs and refines pores and reduces blackheads and whiteheads without drying out the skin.

2. APPLY HEAT

If you’re looking to learn how to remove pimples safely, soak a small towel in warm to hot water and hold it to your face regularly throughout the day. You can also prepare a steam bath with hot water in a bowl and hold your face over it at a comfortable distance.

 Moderate levels of heat and steam can open up your pores and allow impurities to naturally escape. They can also reduce irritation and redness associated with pimples.

3. MAKE A NATURAL FACE MASK

Natural face masks should contain pimple-fighting ingredients to boost your skin’s recovery. Treat pimples with these natural soothing ingredients:
• Manuka honey
• Green tea
• Tea tree oil
• Yoghurt

Try turmeric and cucumber, both of which work to heal and soothe your skin. Mix these ingredients with a mild natural yoghurt for a moisturising kick. Find out more recipes here

4. USE A NATURAL SPOT TREATMENT

Send your pimple packing with a natural spot treatment – simply apply a dab of a natural anti-bacterial ingredient directly on your pimple, leave for ten to fifteen minutes, and rinse off with warm water. Consider these spot treatment options and send your pimple packing:

• Honey – eliminates bacteria and blocks it from entering your pores
• Garlic – contains sulphur that dries out oils naturally, and is a great antiseptic
• Tomatoes – contain high levels of antioxidants to fight cellular damage and reduce redness
• Diluted tea tree oil – is well known for its soothing, antibacterial, and sebum-dissolving properties

1. Maintain a consistent skincare routine

Before deciding on the right skin care product, determine what type of skin you have. It is important you are choosing the right ingredients in your skincare products to target any specific concerns.

• Remove your make-up thoroughly – don’t let it block or irritate your pores. Face wipes are always handy for this.
• Cleanse – use a good cleanser suited to your skin type that will keep your skin fresh and free from excess oil, without drying it out. Try our Derma Skin Clear Wash Gel
• Exfoliate – remove dead skin cells. They can build-up and clog pores.  A good option for blemish prone skin is NIVEA’s Derma Skin Clear Face Scrub
• Moisturise – keep your skin balanced with a light, oil-free formulation for pimple prevention.

 2. Minimise Stress

This is easier said than done! Stress affects our physical health and can cause physical symptoms, including pimples. Taking some time to exercise, take a bath or meditate is great to reduce stress. Try implementing these activities in your everyday life to minimise stress levels:

• Journaling
• Breathing exercises
• Light exercise such as walking
• Mindful meditation
• Relaxing bath
• Plus, try to organise your daily schedule in a way that you can treat yourself to moments of “me time”.

3. Follow a skin-healthy diet

A skin-friendly diet should include low-glycemic, anti-inflammatory foods, while limiting sugary and processed foods. Look out for foods containing these four key nutrients:

• Vitamin A – reduces sebum and helps skin cells regenerate. Try spinach, carrots, kale, papaya, cantaloupe or sweet potatoes.
• Antioxidants – help fight free radicals in your body. Try cocoa, a small square of dark chocolate a good antioxidant fix.
• Vitamin C – helps the skin produce collagen for a fresh-looking complexion. Try citrus fruits, broccoli or bean sprouts.
• Omega-3 and omega-6 – help keep your skin supple. Try salmon, avocados, nuts and olive oil for more unsaturated fatty acids.

Always remember to drink plenty of water or unsweetened tea to help flush out toxins and avoid drinking soft drinks if you can.

4. Use a non-comedogenic moisturiser

Moisturisng daily helps support the natural skin barrier and maintain adequate hydration. Using a non-comedogenic moisturisers can help prevent pimples by hydrating the skin without clogging pores, reducing the risk of excess oil, buildup, and breakouts. This is ideal for acne prone or oily skin.

5. Regularly wash your hair

Washing your hair regularly helps prevent pimples by removing excess oil, sweat, and styling product residue that can transfer from the hair to the skin. These substances can build up on the skin's surface and clog pores, leading to the formation of pimples.

6. Avoid Touching Your Face

Touching your face transfers bacteria and oil, which can worsen breakouts. Avoid picking or squeezing pimples, as this can lead to scarring and spread bacteria.

7. Consult a professional

If your adult pimples are persisting and causing you excessive grief, talk to your GP or a dermatologist. They can discuss your options around a prescription for an adult acne treatment.