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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Red/inflamed blemish
Cure it: Squeezing is a definite no-no. You can apply a good, topical benzoyl peroxide from Oxy or Neutrogena. A clay mask or drying lotion will also help draw out any impurities.

Conceal it: It's difficult to cover an inflamed blemish, so you need a concealer that stays put. Dermablend is a good one to try because it has a thick consistency and is packed with pigment so it covers well. Always start with the smallest amount of concealer, and then build. Dab the concealer to the blemish with a small concealer brush or cotton bud, then gently cover. Clean the brush well after use to avoid re-infection.

Prevent it: If red and inflamed pimples plague you it's time to see a dermatologist for a course of oral and topical treatments to prevent the condition. Once your acne is under control you can often prevent recurrences using over-the-counter products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic or glycolic acids. But a doctor can help you get to that point.

Erupting spot
Cure it: Cystic acne has the potential to leave deep scars and should never be squeezed. If it's an open pimple, apply an acne drying gel or lotion and let it run its course. If you have frequent outbreaks, visit a dermatologist for appropriate treatment.

Conceal it:Sorry, you must not touch an erupting spot. Keep it clean with an astringent, but leave it alone until it dries out. If it is dry, apply a dab of a heavy concealer to the blemish with a cotton bud or a small acrylic-tipped brush.

Prevent it: An occasional eruption can't be avoided. Dermatologists advise you to let it drain, keeping it covered with a benzoyl peroxide cream (or antibiotic like Neosporin). Never, never squeeze it. It will not make it go away or prevent future outbreaks. If you squeeze you are likely to break the swollen pore under the skin, causing a worse eruption. If they are common occurrences for you, you may have cystic acne; so make an appointment with a doctor. A dermatologist can prescribe antibiotics or give you other ways in which to control it.

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Small spot
Cure it: Don't touch it. Wash the area gently and try a homeopathic acne cream.

Conceal it: Cover the blemish with a dab of liquid foundation using a small concealer brush. Brush lightly with translucent powder to hold.

Prevent it: It's bound to happen once in a while no matter what you do. Keep your skin clean and use non-comedogenic moisturisers and sunscreen (this means that they are tested to ensure they will not clog the pores). Make sure all your make-up is oil-free. Wash make-up brushes frequently and keep your hands away from your face.

Feel-it-coming blemish
Cure it: Ask your GP if an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drug might help ease the swelling. Sometimes applying ice to the area, whenever you feel like touching it, helps. Other than that, keep your hands off.

Conceal it: Cover with a lightweight concealer cream or liquid foundation. Dab the cream on the area, and blend with finger.

Prevent it: Use cleansers and moisturisers designed to prevent acne. And always remember to keep your hands away from your face. If what you feel coming is a large deep blemish that occurs frequently, it's time to see a dermatologist. These kinds of pimples can leave a scar. A dermatologist will recommend drugs that keep infections that cause acne from happening.