Question: 

I’ve been using really hot water to wash my face because I thought it might blast my spots more effectively than cold water. But it doesn’t seem to be working. Am I doing the right thing?

 Our Expert: 

Sometimes you’ve got to be kind to be kind. Scalding water sounds really macho but if you want to help your skin it’s not the way forward. You should use water that’s neither too hot nor cold and wash your skin twice a day using the Clearasil cleanser that’s right for your skin type. Finish by gently patting your face dry with a towel. Look after your skin and show it your sensitive side for a change. You should spot the difference in no time!

» Find the Clearasil product that's right for you

 Question: 

I don’t get spots all the time. Do I need to bother washing my face when my skin’s okay?

 Our Expert: 

Yes! Prevention is better than cure, so if your skin looks great then make sure it stays that way! Spots are caused by a variety of factors including clogged pores, excess oil and bacteria. So even if your skin isn’t that oily you’ll still need to keep your pores clear of dirt and dead skin cells, and help stop the spread of spot-causing bacteria. The best way to help tackle all the causes of spots is to use any of Clearasil’s washes, gel washes, cleansers, pads or wipes twice a day, every day. Simple!

 Question: 

Ugh! I’ve got blackheads and they’re grim. How do I get rid of them? And what are they anyway?

 Our Expert: 

Blackheads appear when a pore becomes clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Interestingly, the black colour isn’t from oil or dirt; it’s from the dark pigment in your skin. If you want to get rid of your blackheads (which of course you do!) don’t squeeze them. If you do, you may break the wall of the pore, releasing oil and bacteria into healthy skin and spreading the infection. You may even cause scars.

Instead of squeezing – which, let me again stress, is a bad idea – you can help remove (and avoid) blackheads by keeping pores clear. The best way to do this is to use an effective cleanser. Try Clearasil Blackhead Control Clearing Scrub or Clearasil Blackhead Control Clearing Pads. To help ensure your spots don’t come back, carry on using these products even once your spots have gone. Remember, you can’t cure spots, only treat them!

» Find out more about Clearasil Blackhead Control Clearing Scrub

» Find out more about Clearasil Blackhead Control Clearing Pads

 Question: 

I’ve just started shaving but I have spots. Will shaving help my spots or make it worst? Do you have any tips on how best to shave without aggravating my skin?

 Our Expert: 

Shaving can be good for spot-prone skin as it helps to remove oil, dirt, bacteria and dead skin cells. It also helps to stop blackheads and whiteheads forming. Unfortunately, however, it can also be quite harsh. This is because the razor actually scrapes a layer of skin cells off your face, which can leave pores raw and open.

Here are my top tips for shaving skin prone to breakouts:

 Question: 

I’ve tried everything but nothing works. My skin looks a state and it’s not getting better. I just don’t know what to do.

 Our Expert: 

You sound distressed and I can understand why – it can be hard if you suffer with spots, especially during your teens when you may be particularly self-conscious. The good news, however, is that, with your doctor’s help, you can clear up almost every case of severe spots. Make an appointment with your GP immediately and see what they can do to help.