Pimples: types, causes and natural solutions

A small, inflamed spot that develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. These common skin blemishes affect millions worldwide, particularly during adolescence, though they can occur at any age.

Your face contains more sebaceous glands than other body parts, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). These oil-producing glands work overtime during hormonal fluctuations, creating ideal conditions for blemishes. Facial skin also faces constant exposure to environmental pollutants, makeup, and frequent touching, contributing to clogged pores.

Each type requires a different approach for effective treatment:

• White pimple (whitehead): small, flesh-coloured bumps with white centres form when pores become completely blocked with sebum and dead skin cells. The trapped material creates a closed comedone appearing white under the skin's surface.

• Black pimple (blackhead): when a pore remains partially open, the trapped sebum oxidises upon air contact, turning dark brown or black. This oxidation process is similar to how a cut apple browns when exposed to air. These open comedones commonly appear on the nose and chin where sebaceous glands are most active.

• Red pimple (papule): inflamed, tender bumps develop when bacteria multiply within clogged pores, triggering an immune response. Papules appear as small, raised red spots without visible centres and feel sensitive to touch.

• Yellow pimple (pustule): white blood cells rushing to fight infection in papules form pus, creating yellow or white-headed pimples surrounded by inflamed red skin.

• Purple pimple (nodule): deep, painful lumps form when inflammation extends deep into skin layers. Purple pimples can persist for weeks and often lead to scarring without proper treatment.

• Blind pimple (closed comedone): these frustrating bumps develop deep under the skin without coming to a head. Blind pimple treatment requires specific approaches to bring them safely to the surface.

Identifying the root causes of blemishes helps develop an effective skincare routine tailored to your needs.

Hormonal fluctuations significantly influence the formation of blemishes. During puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or stress, androgen hormones can stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more oil. This excess sebum mixes with dead skin cells that naturally shed every 28-40 days, creating a sticky plug that blocks pores.

Can stress give you pimples? Yes. Stress releases cortisol, increasing oil production and inflammation. It also leads to poor sleep, irregular eating habits, and unconscious face-touching – all contributing to breakouts.

Daily habits significantly impact skin health. High-glycaemic foods and dairy products potentially trigger breakouts in some people. Inadequate hydration leads to oil overproduction, whilst excessive cleansing strips natural oils, prompting more sebum production.

Environmental factors like humidity, pollution, and seasonal changes affect skin behaviour. Heavy, comedogenic products clog pores, whilst harsh ingredients irritate skin and worsen inflammation.

Learning how to eliminate spots safely requires patience and the right approach – quick fixes often lead to scarring or worse breakouts.

Several evidence-based ingredients effectively treat face blemishes naturally:

• Salicylic acid penetrates deep into pores, dissolving dead skin cells and excess oil. Unlike other acids that work on the skin's surface, salicylic acid is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate through the lipid layers between skin cells. This unique property makes it particularly effective for blackheads and whiteheads, as it can reach deep into clogged pores to break down blockages. Regular use helps prevent new comedones from forming whilst treating existing ones.

• Niacinamide offers multiple benefits through different mechanisms. This vitamin B3 form reduces inflammation by inhibiting inflammatory mediators, regulates oil production by decreasing sebum excretion rates, and fades post-acne marks by slowing melanin transfer. Studies show niacinamide can reduce sebum production by up to 30% after four weeks of use.

Prevention beats treatment. Establishing a consistent, gentle routine forms the foundation of how to prevent spots. Cleanse twice daily with mild, non-stripping cleanser, always removing makeup before bed. Regular but not excessive exfoliation prevents dead skin buildup.

Lifestyle changes make significant differences: stay hydrated, manage stress through exercise or meditation, maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants. Change pillowcases regularly, clean phone screens, avoid touching your face.

When selecting blemishes treatment products, choose non-comedogenic formulations. Layer products from thinnest to thickest consistency, always including sun protection as many treatments increase photosensitivity.

No. Popping pushes bacteria deeper, spreading infection and increasing inflammation. This often causes prominent scarring and turns simple imperfections into larger, painful problems. Leave extractions to professionals using sterile tools and proper techniques.

Seek help if you develop large, hard lumps under the skin, pitted or raised scars, or clusters of interconnected pimples that haven't improved after 6-8 weeks. Sudden adult-onset acne or breakouts with other symptoms may indicate hormonal issues requiring medical evaluation.

For those wondering how to heal post-acne scars, dermatologists offer chemical peels, microneedling, and laser therapy that significantly improve skin texture.

This comprehensive routine combines scientifically backed natural ingredients to address multiple skin concerns, from excess sebum and enlarged pores to active breakouts and post-blemish marks. Clinical studies show 86% of users saw reduced blemishes after just seven days, with no rebound effect:

1. 1. First, start with the Gel Facial Cleanser with Salicylic Acid to remove impurities and begin the pore-clearing process. Natural salicylic acid from wintergreen leaves gently exfoliates whilst organic grape water hydrates and soothes. The addition of grape polyphenols provides essential antioxidant protection from the very first step.

2. 2. Next, apply the Salicylic Acid Toner to balance and prepare your skin. This combines natural salicylic acid with a powerful blend of six purifying essential oils - lavender, lemongrass, peppermint, rosemary, lemon balm, and geranium. The organic grape water continues to support your skin's microbiome for a healthier complexion.

3. 3. Then, treat problem areas with the Salicylic Acid Serum, the routine's star performer. This concentrated formula features natural salicylic acid to unclog pores, grape polyphenols for antioxidant defence, and niacinamide to visibly reduce pore size and calm inflammation. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly without leaving residue.

4. 4. Follow with the Mattifying Moisturiser to hydrate without adding shine. Natural silica powder provides immediate matte finish whilst plant squalane from Mediterranean olives ensures skin stays comfortable and hydrated. Grape polyphenols continue their protective work throughout the day.

5. 5. Finally, for active breakouts, apply the Salicylic Spot Solution directly to individual spots. This targeted treatment combines natural salicylic acid with niacinamide and pure tea tree essential oil for concentrated blemish control. Use it as needed on stubborn spots that require extra attention.