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Blackheads
Product Pick: Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores, $27
Charcoal is the ideal ingredient for pesky blackheads as it acts as a magnet to draw out pore-clogging dirt, oil and makeup from deep within skin. Exfoliating manually using a scrub will also help to loosen the bacteria, oil and dirt in pores and wash it away. Using a charcoal exfoliator is one way to double up and ensure that you're taking all the preventative steps. We mainly see blackheads popping up around the nose and in the T-zone, so it's totally fine for you to use this mask only in those areas.
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Cystic Acne
Product Pick: Sunday Riley Saturn Sulfur Acne Treatment Mask, $55
Sulfur is a miracle worker for cystic acne as it helps to inhibit the growth of the bacteria that causes acne. It also helps bring down inflammation, which is usually what we're seeing when we look at an angry, cystic pimple. Aside from helping to fight cystic acne (and prevent new breakouts from popping up whenever they please), this sulfur face mask is also a great solution for large pores and oily skin.
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Hormonal Acne
Product Pick: Kate Somerville Anti Bac Clearing Lotion, $42
Usually popping up on the chin and jawline, hormonal acne loves to flare up right around your period (ugh, a double whammy). Once you've dealt with the cramps and back pain, tackling your breakouts can be simple with the help of benzoyl peroxide. It works by preventing the pores from getting blocked in the first place and it specifically fights acne-causing bacteria.
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Body Acne
Product Pick: First Aid Beauty Cleansing Body Polish with Active Charcoal, $28
Body acne is very similar to the kind you get on your face. A sure way to make sure you're preventing any type of acne is by using ingredients that will prevent multiple types. This body polish exfoliates dead skin cells from the surface but it also uses charcoal to draw out imperfections, and salicylic and lactic acid to help the skin look bright and have an improved texture.
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Post-Acne Hyperpigmentation
Product Pick: Peter Thomas Roth De-Spot Skin Brightening Corrector, $75
Hyperpigmentation is the dark mark left after a breakout has cleared up and it can often take months to go away, but there are some ingredients you can use that will help speed the process along. Hydroquinone is one of the most popular skin-lightening ingredients, but it can cause irritation since it bleaches the skin. If you have sensitive skin, try a light glycolic or retinol cream/wash. Turmeric is also a popular ingredient choice for removing dark spots as it contains curcumin, which inhibits pigmentation in the skin. Depending on which ingredient you choose, the process takes time, so make sure you're not expecting instant results.
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