A hormonal pimple needs different treatment than a whitehead. Find out the best spot treatments for all kinds of acne below.
To successfully treat acne, a 360-degree approach, i.e. double cleansing, exfoliating, tweaking certain lifestyle habits, etc., will serve you well. But sometimes, you just need to stomp out one glaring zit – and fast. Read on for our favorite K-beauty spot treatments for every type of acne.
Blackheads and Whiteheads
The best way to combat certain spots is by knowing exactly how they occur. Blackheads and whiteheads usually form as a result of hair follicles that get clogged with trapped dirt, sebum, and debris, causing the pore to become infected. The best treatment for this type of acne is exfoliation as this helps to avoid the buildup of dead skin within the pore as well as aid in regulating oil production.
An effective spot treatment is the Dr. Oracle A-Thera Tea Tree Peeling Sticks. This targeted spot treatment contains both AHA and BHA to effectively fight acne and clear blackheads and whiteheads. It’s also formulated to be used on an everyday basis, making it gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types.
Whiteheads can be tempting to pop, but a safer and arguably just as satisfying option is applying a pimple patch on one. The Klog Soft Shield Pimple Patches made with 100% hydrocolloid help reduce inflammation, absorb impurities from pores, and protect against bacteria and face-picking. The beveled edges help provide a better fit than most other patches, and the near-invisible look keeps them discrete. Apply one at night and you’ll wake up to a flattened spot – and get to see all the gunk it sucked out. During the day, wear them to keep the spot from getting further inflamed.
Inflammatory Acne
Inflammatory acne results in lesions that become inflamed and turn into red and tender bumps which can be filled with pus and bacteria. These pimples usually start as comedonal acne (AKA blackheads and whiteheads) so using chemical exfoliants like AHA and BHA will help, but it’s important to also use an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory spot treatment.
The Neogen A-Clear Soothing Pink Eraser contains tea tree oil and calamine, in addition to centella asiatica to target bacteria and inflammation. Just take a cotton swab and dip it all the way to the bottom of the bottle and apply it onto the spot. Remember not to shake the product before use, since it’s meant to be multi-layered.
The Plant Base AC Magic Clear Gel also contains anti-bacterial and inflammation-calming properties from a blend of medicinal herbs, tea tree, and 78% centella asiatica. The gentle formula won’t dry out or irritate sensitive skin, so spots heal quickly and the skin barrier is strengthened.
Hormonal Acne
Ah, cystic acne. The bane of almost everyone’s existence. This acne usually flares up around your chin area and right before your period. It’s painful to the touch, uncomfortable and sometimes virtually invisible, making it impossible to pop.
Sometimes, regular pimple patches don’t typically work well on this type of spot, but the Acropass Trouble Cure stickers, which are dotted with serum microneedles, do. These painless microneedles go beyond the surface of the skin and deliver anti-inflammatory and antibacterial ingredients to the root of the problem. Especially for those tougher spots without a head, the microneedles provide relief. Wear them overnight to wake up to a flatter, less inflamed spot.
+What works best to treat your acne? Let us know below!
