Skin Profile. Occasional pimples signal mild acne, common on combination to oily skin. Often hereditary—even if your skin doesn't mirror your parents'—it can stem from subtle hormonal shifts or unsuitable contraception, triggering excess sebum production (hyperseborrhea) that leads to shine and breakouts.
Treatment. For mild acne, consult your pharmacist or see a dermatologist at the first sign of discomfort. Topical treatments usually suffice. Dermatologists cleanse skin to remove blackheads and whiteheads (micro-cysts). At home, use keratolytic creams with retinoids, fruit acids, or salicylic acid—dosage depends on breakout severity. For red, inflamed pimples, try over-the-counter low-dose benzoyl peroxide (reduces sebum and fights bacteria) or pharmacist-recommended antibiotic gels/lotions. Expect results in 3-6 months.
Skincare Routine. Cleanse nightly with a foaming gel for combination/oily skin or a dermatological bar. Always moisturize, especially if treatments dry your skin: mattifying cream (with zinc or powders, tinted optional) in the morning or an anti-acne active; evening, a formula for mixed skin. SOS drying sticks target individual pimples—super-concentrated for quick results in 2-3 days (though acne is chronic and may recur).
Thanks to Dr. Naïma Midoun, dermatologist.
