When you wake up in the morning with Mount Vesuvius glowing bright on your chin, it’s hard to resist squeezing and squeezing until your face turns into a red mess. We’re only human, after all. Thanks to this three-step guide to blemish damage control, your unwanted visitor will disappear in no time…
1. ELIMINATE
• Wash the area using a gentle water-soluble cleanser and a soft, wet washcloth to remove dead skin cells to make extracting the pimple easier.
We recommend: Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser (R 74.95; Dis-Chem)
• Use a stainless steel needle-and-hoop blackhead remover on a dry face to extract the pimple. Position the end of the device around the centre of the blemish and press down gently.
Why not just use my fingers?
A blackhead remover applies pressure from underneath the blemish, minimising damage to the skin and preventing dark marks from forming.
We recommend: The Body Shop Double Ended Blackhead Remover (R 75; The Body Shop stores).
If you are going to use your fingers, follow these tips:
1. Use your forefingers, as they have the most control when squeezing.
2. Wrap your fingers in tissue paper to prevent skin damage and infection from your nails.
3. Keep fingers outside the blemish and create mild pressure from underneath.
2. TREAT
• Apply a spot treatment to dry out the area and draw out infection.
We recommend: Garnier Pure SOS Anti-Blemish Spot Pen (R 69.95; Dis-Chem).
How it works: Zinc, an anti-bacterial agent and hydrating Cucumber Extract are a zit-zapping powerhouse.
• Apply a fading treatment to prevent post-breakout dark marks.
We recommend: Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector (R 590; Clinique counters).
How it works: Vitamin C, salicyclic acid and exotic plant extracts minimise blemish marks in no time at all.
3. CONCEAL
Once you’ve treated your blemish, the magic of makeup can render it almost unnoticeable.
• Apply your foundation as usual.
• Apply a thin layer of complexion-matching concealer to the blemish with a concealer brush. Press the bristles on top of the pimple, then twist the brush to fill the uneven surface.
We recommend:
LA Girl Pro HD Concealer (R 44.95; Dis-Chem).
Why we love it: This budget buy has been called a dupe for MAC’s Pro Longwear Concealer.
Smashbox 24 Hour CC Spot Concealer (R 320; Woolworths).
Why we love it: Designed for post-acne marks, this concealer both camouflages and treats.
• Soften and blend by gently tapping concealer into surrounding skin. Apply a second layer if needed.
• Use a small, fluffy eyeshadow brush to set the concealer with a gentle dusting of complexion-matching powder.
We recommend:
Yardley Stayfast Pressed Powder (R 109.95; Dis-Chem).
Why we love it: The sheer matte finish is ultra-long-lasting.
MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural (R 370; MAC stores and counters).
Why we love it: The formula is matte yet multi-dimensional, creating a beautiful natural finish.
BB Beauties, do you sit it out or squeeze? Share your blemish damage control tips below…