What to Do If Your Skin Is Spotty
Last updated: 3 August 2025
Step 1: Use a Gentle Cleanser Twice Daily
Cleansing your face in the morning and evening helps remove dirt, oil, and bacteria that can clog pores. Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser — avoid harsh soaps or scrubs that can irritate the skin and make breakouts worse.
Step 2: Introduce Spot-Fighting Ingredients
Look for products containing salicylic acid (BHA), benzoyl peroxide, or niacinamide. These ingredients help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and target bacteria. Start slowly to avoid irritation and always patch-test new products.
Step 3: Avoid Picking or Squeezing Spots
It can be tempting, but picking spots increases the risk of scarring and spreads bacteria, potentially causing more breakouts. Let blemishes heal naturally or use targeted spot treatments.
Step 4: Keep Your Skin Hydrated
Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser daily. Even if your skin feels oily, skipping moisturiser can make your skin overproduce oil, worsening breakouts. Hydrated skin also heals more effectively.
Step 5: Clean Your Environment
Bacteria can spread from pillowcases, phone screens, makeup brushes, and even hands. Wash pillowcases weekly, disinfect phones daily, and clean makeup tools regularly. Avoid touching your face throughout the day.
Step 6: Check Your Diet and Stress Levels
Some people find that cutting back on dairy, sugar, or processed foods helps reduce breakouts. High stress levels can also affect hormone balance and worsen acne. Try managing stress with exercise, sleep, or relaxation techniques.
Step 7: Use Non-Comedogenic Makeup and Sunscreen
If you wear makeup, choose products labeled 'non-comedogenic' to avoid clogging pores. Always remove makeup fully at night. Sunscreen is also essential — UV damage can worsen acne marks and delay healing.
When to See a GP or Dermatologist
If your skin remains persistently spotty despite a good routine, or if acne is affecting your confidence or mental health, speak to a GP. You may benefit from prescription treatments such as topical retinoids, antibiotics, or hormone therapy.