Does your spot treatment have you looking like Mrs. Doubtfire?!
Spot treatment can be a lifesaver for those pesky zits that need a little, or a lot, of assistance getting the h*** out of Dodge, but you might be wondering...
What is the best spot treatment?
How much should I use?
When should I use it?
How do I know if it is working?
Let me share with you which treatments my clients say work best.
What is the best spot treatment?
1. Beautycounter SOS Spot Treatment (a fan fav!)
Pros: Formulated with maximum-strength salicylic acid that won't dry out your skin. Clean brand. Has received acne awards.
Cons: None
Tip: 15% off right now
2. The Inkey List C-50 Blemish Night Treatment
Pros: Uses vitamin C and vitamin E to reduce bacteria, along with 2% salicylic acid
Cons: Hard to find, a bit expensive
How to Use: Dab a pea sized amount on active breakouts before bed
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3. Manuka honey
Pros: Has powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Fights acne causing bacteria while simultaneously healing the skin.
Cons: Can be expensive. Not all Manuka honey is created equal. Look for one with an MG rating of 500 or greater.
How to Use: Add in 1-2 drops of tea tree essential oil before applying for more acne fighting power
Tip: Skip the tea tree if you have dry or dehydrated skin.
4. Castor Oil with Tea Tree
Pros: Tea Tree Oil and Castor Oil both have anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. Tea Tree oil is too drying on its own. The Ricinoleic acid in castor oil can stop the growth of acne causing bacteria.
Cons: Does not soak into the skin and can easily be rubbed off on your pillow
How to Use: Add in 1-2 drops of tea tree essential oil before applying for more acne fighting power (but only is your skin is not dry). Skip the tea tree if you have dry or dehydrated skin.
Tip: Apply an hour before bed
How Much Should I Use?
Spot treatments use powerful active ingredients that can dry out the skin. No matter which product you choose, be sure to only use a pea sized amount and dab it directly on the zit. Avoid rubbing the product all over the infected area, even if your zits are clumped. Drying out the skin will cause MORE breakouts in the long run.
When should I use it? Spot treatments typically use strong actives they can be extremely drying to the skin and can react with the sun. Therefore, they are best used once a day, before bed. How do I know if it is working? Unfortunately, spot treatments aren't miracle workers, and your zit won't go away overnight. This does not mean that the treatment isn't working. An effective treatment will lower inflammation and swelling, reduce redness and keep the skin hydrated. An ineffective treatment will dry out the skin, cause it to peel and increase redness.
If you love what you read about skin care for acne, and want to know my EXACT routine and all the products I recommend for every skin type, I invite you to check out my Acne Skin Care Guides. They can make all the difference in the health of your skin. Learn more here!
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