Conventional wisdom says when a pimple pops up, you can make it disappear quickly by going into attack mode and slapping on a pimple patch or spot treating that unwelcome visitor. That, however, is a short-sighted approach that will keep you in constant maintenance mode. We’ll explain.
Table of content
How does a pimple form?
It takes about 30 days for a pimple to form. Under the surface, there is a network of micro-comedones forming as dead skin cells and sebum mix and create a plug. As more oil is produced, this impaction traps it in the follicle, and it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. The growing bacteria irritate the follicle and oil gland, which then triggers redness and swelling. What you see on the surface, has been brewing for weeks at the micro-comedone level. And the next batch is already on the way. So, while you may indeed see that pimple make a relatively quick retreat with spot treatment, you are leaving the seeds for a whole new crop of pimples to pop up on its heels.
What happens when you spot treat an individual lesion?
When you spot-treat only the individual lesion, you allow bacteria in the surrounding skin to continue to grow and spread. To really clear your skin, you need to address what's happening beneath the surface, and that means using your skin care product all over your face. Otherwise, you are essentially playing whack-a-mole on your face. Best wisdom: use a full-face routine for overall clearer-looking skin.
Our Recommendations
Derm-A-Gel® is Vivant's REt (RP)™ Retinoid starter formula for skin new to retinoids. This multi-tasking skin refiner supports the skin's natural surface renewal, helping clear away dead surface cells, excess oil, and debris that would otherwise create the foundation for clogged-looking pores. It also helps support a smooth, resilient-looking complexion. Use it for a clearer-looking, more refined complexion.
3% Mandelic Acid 3-In-1 Toner
This multitasking essential helps refine the look of surface texture, improve the appearance of uneven tone and dark marks, and prep skin for your corrective serums.
Benzoyl peroxide penetrates into pores, releasing free-radical oxygen to target the bacteria associated with acne. It's also a keratolytic agent, meaning. It promotes gentle peeling to clear dead skin and remove impactions. For very oily or resistant skin. Note that benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics, so be careful of your clothing and sheets if using it at night.
This gentle, high-performance formulation is a customer favorite for addressing the look of blemish-prone skin, visible signs of aging, and dark marks without irritation. Our customers call it "magic in a bottle."
Comments