12 Ways To Combat Skin Blemishes
Whether they’re blackheads, breakouts, or those pesky red marks that linger long after a spot has healed, dealing with blemishes can be frustrating.
The truth is, there’s no single cause (or cure), but a combination of smart habits, the right skincare, and targeted treatments can make a big difference.
At Skn Associate, we like to take a holistic, evidence-based approach to managing blemish-prone skin.
Here are 12 simple and effective ways to help you achieve clearer, calmer skin - from home to clinic.
1. Keep your pillowcase clean!
Your pillowcase can collect oil, bacteria, and product residue from your hair and skin. Changing it at least twice a week helps reduce breakouts caused by buildup.
Pro tip: Stick to fragrance-free detergents and avoid fabric softeners, which can irritate sensitive skin.
2. Avoid touching your face
We all do it - resting your chin in your hand, picking at a spot, or brushing hair away. But hands carry bacteria that can inflame or spread blemishes. Keep them clean and try to avoid unnecessary contact with your face.
3. Use a gentle cleanser (and get that apricot scrub away from your face!)
Over-cleansing or using gritty exfoliants can strip your skin barrier, leading to more oil production and breakouts. Choose a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that keeps the skin clean without irritation.
Clinic favourite:
Refresh Cleanser - an active, exfoliating cleanser that gently removes debris & toxins, whilst soothing irritation. Leaves skin feeling super clean & supple without stripping the natural barrier.
4. Introduce an exfoliating serum
Chemical exfoliants (like lactic, salicylic, or mandelic acid) can help unclog pores and smooth skin texture without the abrasiveness of a physical scrub.
Try:
Luminex 3D - clears blocked, enlarged pores & dead skin cells whilst accelerating cellular renewal.
Use 2–3 nights per week, followed by moisturiser.
5. Keep your skin hydrated
Dehydrated skin can actually produce more oil to compensate, worsening congestion. Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic hydrator daily.
Clinic pick:
Hydra Fusion - hydrates while supporting skin barrier repair, ideal for compromised or breakout-prone skin.
6. Don’t skip the SPF!
It’s a myth that sunscreen causes breakouts — in fact, UV exposure can make blemishes and pigmentation worse. Choose a lightweight, non-greasy SPF that also calms the skin.
Our go-to:
Hydra DNA Shield - broad-spectrum protection with zinc oxide and niacinamide to soothe and protect.
7. Keep hair products away from your face
Heavy conditioners, styling creams, or oils can clog pores along the hairline and cheeks. When applying hair products, use your hands to shield your face - and always cleanse after styling.
8. Wipe down your phone screen
It might sound silly, but think about it - your phone comes into contact with hands, bags, and surfaces all day, then presses against your cheek. Clean it regularly with alcohol wipes to avoid transferring bacteria to your skin.
9. Don’t overload your routine
Using too many actives at once can irritate your skin and cause inflammation, which may look and feel like breakouts. Start simple: a good cleanser, hydrator, SPF, and one targeted active (like a vitamin A - we love Blemish Reversion for breakout-prone skin).
10. Consider in-clinic treatments for stubborn blemishes
Sometimes, professional treatments can accelerate results and tackle the underlying causes of congestion or inflammation.
We offer a range of options that can be tailored to your skin’s needs:
LED Light Therapy – reduces inflammation and speeds healing.
Microneedling (SkinPen) – improves texture and helps fade post-blemish marks.
Chemical Peels – gently exfoliate and refine pores.
IPL – targets redness and pigmentation left by old blemishes.
A skin consult is the best way to find the right treatment option/s for you.
11. Watch your diet & stress levels
Stress and hormonal fluctuations can trigger breakouts, as can high-sugar or dairy-heavy diets (for some people). Aim for whole foods, plenty of water, and self-care rituals that help manage stress (sleep counts too!).
12. Be patient - and consistent
Skin takes time to rebalance. Quick fixes often lead to rebound irritation or dryness. Stick to your routine for at least 6–8 weeks before judging results, and remember: healthy skin is consistent skin.
Final thoughts
Clear skin isn’t about perfection - it’s about balance. By combining smart home habits with evidence-based skincare and professional treatments, you can restore calm, clarity, and confidence in your complexion.
If you’re ready to take the guesswork out of your routine, we’d love to help.
Book your personalised skin consult at SKN Associate Wauchope and let’s create a plan tailored to you.
