5 Ways to Tailor Your Beauty Routine if You Suffer from Breakouts

When it comes to keeping spots and acne under control, tailoring your skincare and beauty routine can make all the difference.

Thankfully, with advances in both skincare and technology all gearing up to target acne more effectively, the future of your skin is both bright and clear. Here, dermatologist Dr Tabi Leslie gives us the (sk)insider know-how on getting the right routine for blemish-prone skin.

1. TRY A TECH CHECK

DERM TIP: “Follow a dermo-cosmetic routine that’s based on your individual skin concern.”

Don’t have a dermatologist on speed dial? Turn to tech. La Roche-Posay’s new Spotscan tool is a clever skin analyser for blemish-prone skin that’s suitable for acne (and endorsed by derms in the UK). Free to use, it’s a seriously clever tool powered by artificial intelligence that will give your skin a score based on how many pimples, blackheads and pigmented marks you have - all you need to do is take three selfies. You'll then be presented with a tailored skincare routine, featuring products from La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar range, based on your skin type. It’s like having a derm on your sofa.

2. KEEP IT SIMPLE

DERM TIP: “A simple, clinically-proven regime is key to achieving clearer-looking skin.”

Time to Marie Kondo your bathroom cabinet. When it comes to blemish-prone skin, dermatologists recommend a ‘less is more’ approach for your product haul. Meaning, focus on finding key skincare products that work effectively rather than overloading your skin with every trending product you hear about. Using too many rich, heavy products can leave your skin irritated, particularly if it’s prone to blemishes and sensitivity.

 

3. LOOK FOR LHA

DERM TIP: “LHA is similar to salicylic acid, but is thought to be even more effective in skincare.”

Say hello to lipohydroxy acid (LHA), aka the ingredient to start including in your anti-blemish skincare armoury. A derivative of salicylic acid, LHA helps unblock and reduce the size of pores, clearing them of bacteria and making your skin appear smoother. Recent studies suggest that LHA is anti-inflammatory, too. Post-cleanse, try La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Lotion, a micro-exfoliant astringent toner ideal for oily skin that’s prone to imperfections.

4. DO NON-COMEDOGENIC COVER-UPS

DERM TIP: “Choose products labelled non-comedogenic to avoid clogged pores.”

Covering up blemishes and imperfections might boost your confidence, but using the wrong type of products can actually make spot-prone skin more aggravated. Heavier primers, foundations and concealers can lead to clogged pores and angry breakouts. Reach for products specifically labelled oil-free or non-comedogenic that let your skin breathe.

5. SEEK A SPECIALIST

DERM TIP: “Chin acne and acne along the jawline may hint at a hormonal cause of acne.”

If your confidence is being crushed by persistent acne and problem skin – and your dermo-cosmetic skincare routine isn’t helping – turn to a dermatologist for expert advice. La Roche-Posay's Spotscan tool will alert you to visit a specialist when it detects more serious cases of acne. Factors such as stress, genetics and hormones can be major culprits of acne, so it’s worth ruling out potential causes with a skin pro and getting your ideal routine nailed.