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Banish the blemish

Don't panic! Little skin flare-ups can be prevented, cured and concealed following this easy-to-follow advice for a variety of common pimple problems. There's lots of good over-the-counter help and other safe solutions to try. Consult our guide for the best ways to keep your complexion clean and clear.

Whitehead
Blackhead
Red/inflamed blemish
Erupting spot
Small spot
Feel-it-coming blemish

Whitehead
Cure it: Whiteheads are closed comedones (the official word for blackheads) and should be extracted only by an experienced beautician or dermatologist. If you try it yourself, you may risk infection, making the situation worse and even causing scarring. As an alternative, try applying a gel or cream containing salicylic acid, which may help you to unplug the pores.

Conceal it: Using a cotton bud or small, pointed concealer brush, apply a dot of thick concealer to the centre of the blemish, then lightly spread it to cover. Brush over with translucent powder.

Prevent it: Regular facials can help prevent whiteheads because they will keep your pores clean. Dermatologists often prescribe a topical drug, either antibiotic creams or retinoids (like Retinova, Retin-A or Differin) to prevent whiteheads. You may also keep them at bay by washing with a mild cleanser that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic and glycolic acids.

Blackhead
Cure it: You may try using Pond's or Bioré Pore Strips to lift some blackheads. If you attempt to extract them yourself, be really careful. First, apply a hot (but not too hot) compress to soften the pores. With a tissue around your two fingers, gently squeeze the pore. If the oil plug isn't released, stop squeezing. Never squeeze facial skin hard enough to leave an imprint.

Conceal it: Use a liquid spot-touch concealer. Dot the concealer on the area and blend with your fingers. If your skin is shiny, dust the area with powder.

Prevent it: It's almost impossible to prevent blackheads. Once a week, steam your face to soften the oils that clog the pores and cleanse skin deep down using a mask. Use products that include salicylic or glycolic acids to keep pores clean. You might want to consider getting a facial every month to deep-clean pores.

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