A majority of women suffer from blemishes during summers – either acne, blackheads and whiteheads and it’s just not oily skin that’s prone to blemishes. Those with dry, normal, combination skin can have at least one of the above-mentioned skin issue. Blemishes can lower one’s confidence, but here is an article that will help you know the best ways to tackle blemishes systematically and effectively. Read on!
What are Blemishes?
Any flaw on the skin such as acne, scars, blackheads, whiteheads, pustules, etc., are categorized as blemishes.
Types of Blemishes?
- Acne
- Blackheads
- Whiteheads
- Nodules
- Cysts
- Scars
- Hyperpigmentation
- Papules
- Pustules
- Melasma
- Age spots
What Causes Blemishes on the Skin?
Blemishes are often caused as a result of accumulation of oil, bacteria buildup and dead cells of the skin. Apart from these factors, hormonal changes during puberty or pregnancy can also lead to an increased chance of getting blemishes. Cosmetics, that clog the pores on your skin and even genetic factors can be responsible for blemishes. Some other factors are infections, allergic reaction, exposure to harmful sun rays, wrong dietary choices, use certain medications, vitamin deficiency, mineral deficiency.
Basic Tips to Clear Blemishes:
- Cleaning: Cleaning the skin is an important step to achieving blemish-free skin. Use a gentle cleanser, suitable for your skin type.
- Toning: This too is as obvious as the cleansing part. However, toners are often skipped by many of us and so, this advice is needed. Toners help in tightening your skin and do away with any dirt which may be left over after cleansing.
- Exfoliating: Scrub your skin at regular intervals and do away with any dead cell which may be there.
- No popping: Refrain from squeezing or pricking whiteheads, pimples, blackheads or acnes. This often leads to redness and scarring.
Topical Applications to Treat Blemishes:
A blemish is nothing but a skin imperfection. It can be caused as a result of sun exposure, ageing, clogged pores, and other such factors. Common creams with tretinoin, retinol, salicylic acid, vitamin C, azelaic acid, vitamin E, are widely used for treating blemishes. Intake of prescribed medicines (by the doctor) and application of topical ointments are helpful. There are a number of topical products like creams and antioxidant ointments. However, it must be borne in mind that you should consult you’re the physician before resorting to any of these treatments. Your doctor may also choose to inject hydrocortisone. Often, blemishes are caused by internal conditions and thus, you should visit the dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How To Prevent Blemishes:
1. Always wear a good-quality sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection.
2. Use water-based skincare and makeup products.
3. Always remove makeup before hitting the bed.
4. Exfoliate face at least once a week.
5. Follow the cleansing-toning-moisturizing routine every day.
6. Drink more than 8 glasses of water per day.
7. Change pillowcases and bedsheets frequently.
8. Do not pop or squeeze pimples.
Can Chemical Peels/Laser Therapy Treat Blemishes:
Yes, laser treatments such as Q-Switch Laser can reduce the appearance of blemishes and hyperpigmentation. Alpha-hydroxy-acid and beta-hydroxy-based peels can treat blemishes and clear acne and dark spots.
How to Treat Blemishes with Cosmetics:
Cosmetics are helpful in camouflaging blemishes. So, this is not necessarily a treatment. But of course, it serves the purpose on special occasions. Here are a few tips that you would find helpful-
• Tinted moisturizers can be applied to hide your blemishes.
• If you are quite a make-up person, you can use foundation to offer you moderate coverage. Go for matte or semi-matte finishing touch.
• If the blemishes that you have are rather prominent, invest in correcting colors like yellow, mauve, green and white. Wear them under the foundation and this can be an effective solution for your face blemishes.
• Concealers also work wonders as far as hiding blemishes is concerned.
• Use blushes to give your cheeks a pinkish glow! In the process, you would end up concealing blemishes which might still be a little visible through your foundation.
How To Treat Blemishes with Home Remedies:
Wondering how to treat face blemishes at home? The following easy to use home remedies are known to be quite effectual if done religiously:
• Application of cucumber juice, lemon juice and potato juice is very effective.
• Mix sandalwood powder with water and apply the paste on your skin.
• Mix rose water with honey and lemon juice. Apply the concoction on face.
• Mix a spoon of rosewater with two spoons of vinegar and cucumber juice. Apply the solution on face.
• If you have dry skin, soak some almonds overnight. Get rid of the skin and grind it. Add few drops of honey and lemon juice. Apply on face.
• Smash some green papaya and add milk to it. apply the paste on your blemishes.
Take 1 tsp of apple cider vinegar and mix 3 tsp of water. After thoroughly cleaning the face, apply this mix on to the face with the help of a cotton ball. Leave it for 5 minutes and rinse off.
How To Use Tomato Juice to Get Rid of Blemishes:
- Take two tsp of tomato juice and squeeze in a few drops of lemon.
- Mix in 1/2 tsp of honey.
- Add 1 tsp of powdered oatmeal.
- Add 4 drops of sweet almond oil.
- Mix well and apply all over the face. Keep on for 20 minutes and rinse off.
- Do this thrice a week for better results.
How To Treat Blemishes with Diet:
• Have a nutritious diet rich in Vitamin C, A and E.
• Include food items rich in zinc and selenium.
• Eat lots of fresh seasonal fruits like oranges, watermelons, guavas and gooseberries.
• Have fresh vegetables and whole grains.
• Stay away from fatty foods and caffeine.
• Drink loads of water.
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