What Are Blemishes And How To Get Rid Of Them

Skin blemishes. We all have them. Some more than others. And, let's be honest, no one really knows what’s the best treatment to get rid of them. Do they go away on their own? Do we need to see a dermatologist? What the heck are we supposed to do about them!?! 

These pesky little marks are a common occurrence, especially if you suffer from excess oil production or naturally have blemish-prone skin. While they are not typically dangerous, they can be unsightly and embarrassing. 

So, do you have a breakout that just will not go away? Are you at your wit's end with all of the products you've tried? If so, this blog post is for you! Blemishes can be frustrating and hard to get rid of but don't worry, we are here to help! 

In this post, we’ll tell you everything about what blemishes are, and give you some tips on how to reduce them. So read on, and start feeling better about your skin! 

What are blemishes?

Blemishes refer to any discoloration or imperfection on the skin's surface, ranging from temporary to permanent marks that can impact self-esteem and skin health. They may appear as red, brown, black, or white spots and can emerge due to several causes, including acne, age spots, sun exposure, hormonal changes, ingrown hairs, and more. Research indicates that nearly 80% of people will experience acne at some stage in their lives, making blemishes a prevalent concern.

While they may not always be aesthetically pleasing, blemishes typically aren’t harmful and usually resolve on their own over time. It’s essential to understand their types and causes for better management.

Types of skin blemishes from A to Z

Blemishes are not solely red pimples and blackheads; they encapsulate various skin concerns that may affect individuals differently. Additionally, factors like high-sugar diets, environmental pollutants, and the use of certain skincare products can trigger or worsen blemishes.

Acne blemishes

Acne is the most common type of blemish and can affect people of all ages *yes, even if you have already gone through puberty*. It occurs when the pores become clogged with natural oils, dirt, and dead skin cells, leading to red, inflamed, and sometimes pus-filled bumps.

After the inflammation subsides, you might be left with acne scars or dark spots, both considered blemishes as well. There are three main types of acne blemishes: blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.

• Blackheads

  Blackheads occur when excess oil and dead skin cells clog pores, with the dark color resulting from oxidation.

• Whiteheads

  Whiteheads form when sebum and dead skin cells are trapped within the pore, giving them a white appearance.

• Pimples

  Pimples are inflamed lesions that arise from bacterial infections and excess oil clogging pores. The resulting inflammation causes redness and swelling.

• Papules

  Papules are small, hard bumps typically less than half an inch in diameter, often red or pink and can cause uneven skin tone and inflammation.

• Pustules

  These are pimples filled with pus, usually yellow or white with a dome-shaped head. Avoid squeezing them to prevent scarring.

• Nodules

  Nodules are large, painful bumps deep within the skin resulting from ruptured clogged pores, often requiring weeks or months to heal.

• Cysts

  Cysts are sacs formed in the skin's inner layers due to infected pores, generally filled with fluid or pus and can lead to more blemishes if left untreated.

Hyperpigmentation blemishes

Hyperpigmentation blemishes are dark spots or patches resulting from increased melanin production. They can affect anyone, though they are more noticeable in individuals with darker skin tones.

Different types of hyperpigmentation include:

• Age spots (aka liver spots)

  These small, darkened patches typically appear on sun-exposed areas as skin ages or as a result of neglecting skincare.

• Sunspots

  Similar to age spots, sunspots result from excessive sun exposure without adequate protection.

• Melasma

  Melasma is characterized by dark or light patches and is commonly seen in women, often triggered by hormonal changes and sun exposure.

• Chloasma

  Chloasma shares similar causes as melasma, often displaying as dark patches resulting from hormonal fluctuations, especially during pregnancy.

Ingrown hairs

Ingrown hairs occur when hair grows back into the skin after hair removal, causing inflammation and pimple-like lesions.

Skin cancer

While blemishes are often benign, they can occasionally indicate skin cancer. It’s crucial to consult a dermatologist if you notice any new or changing blemishes.

Cold sores

Cold sores are blemishes caused by the herpes simplex virus, appearing as red, blister-like lesions around the lips and mouth.

Birthmarks

Many people are born with blemishes, which can vary in color and texture but are typically harmless and painless.

How to get rid of blemishes depending on the type

We know blemishes can be really annoying, but with so many types, how do you know what treatment is the best for your skin type and concern? Here is our definitive guide on how to manage blemishes depending on the ones you have: 

Our fave ingredients to get rid of acne blemishes

Acne treatments are the way to go if you suffer from blackheads, whiteheads, or the more serious types of acne. These are our top skincare ingredients for you:

• Salicylic acid 

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that is used to treat blemish-prone skin and other skin conditions. It works by helping to remove the top layer of skin cells, which can unblock pores and decrease excess oil. This ingredient penetrates deep into the dermis layer and has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce skin irritation.

There are a number of different products that contain salicylic acid, including face washes, creams, topical gels, and pads. It is important to read the instructions carefully before including them in your skincare routine, as they can vary in strength. 

You can use it twice a day to see the best results. 

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• Benzoyl peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is a chemical compound that is used in many over-the-counter acne treatments. The ingredient works by destroying the bacteria that causes acne. Additionally, it has a mild drying effect, which helps to get rid of the oil and dead skin that can clog pores and worsen the skin condition.

You can use it on the blemish and the skin surrounding it to make sure the bacteria won’t spread and you will keep your skin healthy and clear AF. 

• Azelaic acid

Azelaic acid is a natural substance that helps to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation caused by acne. Moreover, it can lighten dark spots on blemished skin, improving skin texture, so it is a good ingredient to treat hyperpigmentation too. 

You can find this ingredient in topical creams, cleansers, and serums. 

Must-have ingredients to get rid of hyperpigmentation blemishes

There are many anti-aging and dark spot treatments that can reduce the appearance of blemishes caused by hyperpigmentation. Here are our buzzworthy ingredients for you: 

• Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an effective treatment for hyperpigmentation. It helps to lighten sun spots, age spots, melasma, and even out skin tone. This antioxidant can be found in over-the-counter and prescription medications, as well as in topical treatments and skincare products.

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• Retinol

Retinol is a form of vitamin A that is used to reduce the appearance of blemishes and hyperpigmentation on the skin. This little guy works by increasing cell turnover, which helps to get rid of dead cells that can clog pores and cause blemishes. 

Moreover, it helps to increase the production of collagen, which can fade scars and hyperpigmentation spots. 

Retinol is all the rage right now and you can find it in many skin care products, however, if you have a sensitive skin type, it is better to stay away from it.  

• Licorice root extract

Licorice root is a rising star in the skincare industry and for a good reason: it contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. That’s why it can help to reduce the redness and swelling of blemishes, and it may also help speed up the healing process.

• Niacinamide

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B that has been shown to be effective in treating blemishes. It works by reducing inflammation and sebum production, which can help to clear up any skin mark quickly and prevent them from appearing again. 

This ingredient can be used for all types of skin and can be found in the form of serums and face masks. 

• AHA’s

Alpha-hydroxy acids are a popular choice for blemish-prone skin. They work by breaking down the bonds that hold the dead cells together, which helps to remove the top layer of skin and reduces the appearance of blemishes.

There are two main types of alpha-hydroxy acids: glycolic acid and lactic acid. Glycolic acid is more effective at removing dead cells, while lactic acid is better at hydrating the skin. Choose an alpha-hydroxy acid treatment that best suits your needs.

You can find these ingredients as chemical peels, exfoliants, or serums. 

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Other treatments for blemishes

Even though most blemishes can be treated with topical products or just go away with time, there are faster options you can ponder like surgical removal

• Laser therapy

This is a great way to remove blemishes. It can help to get rid of the dark spots and pigmentation that are left behind after a blemish heals. It can also help to reduce the redness and inflammation associated with blemishes. Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment, so it is a great option for people who want to get rid of their blemishes quickly and without any pain or discomfort.

If you are interested in getting this treatment to remove your blemishes, make sure to consult with a dermatologist first. They will be able to recommend the best treatment plan for you and help you achieve the best results possible. 

4 Quick tips to get blemish-free skin

Want some day-to-day tips to take care of your skin and prevent blemishes from appearing? Here is our list: 

• Have healthy hygiene habits:  Make sure to wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. This will help to remove any dirt or oil that may be clogging your pores and causing blemishes. 

• Don’t underestimate the power of spot treatments: If you have a specific blemish that you want to get rid of, use a spot treatment on it. This will help to dry out the blemish and reduce its size. 

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• Apply ice: if you have a red or inflamed blemish, apply ice to it. This will help to reduce the inflammation and make the blemish look better.
• Wear sunscreen every day: that way you will prevent sunspots and premature aging spots.

Where to find the best products to treat blemishes?

Now that we have told you everything you need to know about blemishes and the best ingredients to treat them, it is time to do some shopping to keep your skin clear and healthy. 

We know blemishes are annoying AF, but most people have them, and getting rid of them is not impossible. In fact, Asian Beauty Essentials have many skin care collections with ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, and licorice root extract to help you get started. 

So, what are you waiting for? Visit our shop and exile those blemishes off your face.