What can I do to reduce and cover the blemishes on my face?

Blemishes are pesky, and as with most things, they’re better prevented than cured. Luckily there are a couple of things you can do to minimise their appearance.

Before treating a blemish, it’s important to diagnose the type of blemish correctly. If you’re struggling with brown spots, you could be suffering from a skin condition called melasma, which can occur when your body’s natural hormonal state is disrupted. The Pill or pregnancy is often to blame so it’s best to see a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment. Not on the Pill, nor pregnant? Dark spots can also be caused by the sun, and that’s why it’s super important to wear a daily moisturiser with a high SPF factor and to stay out of the sun between 10am and 3pm. Unfortunately there’s no quick fix for sun spots; there are chemical peels and laser resurfacing treatments available to help fade spots, but these can be costly and it’s best to consult a dermatologist who can explain all the options and procedures. Not too keen on a medical procedure?

If your blemishes are break-out related, there are a number of things you can do to treat and prevent them. Firstly, always use a gentle non-comedogenic cleanser that won’t clog your pores. It’s best to choose a ‘normal to oily skin’ or ‘normal to dry skin’ formulation depending on your skin type. Secondly, no matter how tempting, don’t ever go to sleep without removing your makeup first, as this is one of the leading causes of breakouts. Using a gentle exfoliator twice a week will help to unclog pores and remove excess oil which will help prevent future breakouts.

To treat blemishes, experts recommend using a topical disinfectant such as a benzoyl peroxide cream. This is available over the counter and is effective in killing the bacteria that causes blemishes to occur in the first place. Try keeping your hands away from your face, and use oil-blotting wipes on hot days to soak up any excess oil or sweat (avoid using your hands, as they’ll encourage the spreading of germs and bacteria). For stubborn blemishes that don’t react to home treatments, it’s best to consult your dermatologist, who’ll prescribe a stronger form of treatment.

Until blemishes are healed, a good concealer can really do the trick in masking imperfections. Shop around to find a shade that matches your skin perfectly.