The Ultimate Skincare Routine for Acne-Prone Skin in NZ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: What’s the difference between a blackhead and a whitehead? A: Both are types of clogged pores (comedones). A blackhead is an open pore where the trapped oil and skin cells oxidise and turn dark when exposed to air. A whitehead is a closed pore, where the clog is trapped under a thin layer of skin.

• Q: Is it okay to pop pimples? A: No, it’s generally not recommended to pop pimples. Picking or squeezing can lead to deeper inflammation, permanent scarring, and the dark spots known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

• Q: Are there any specific foods I should avoid if I have acne? A: While the link between diet and acne is complex, some people find that limiting high-glycemic foods (like sugar and white bread) and dairy products can help improve their skin. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is generally recommended.

• Q: What is the best way to treat hormonal acne on the jawline? A: Hormonal acne is often internal, but you can manage it effectively with the right topical routine. The key is to be consistent and gentle. Use a mild cleanser, avoid harsh scrubs that can increase inflammation, and apply a treatment serum with anti-inflammatory ingredients to help calm breakouts and prevent clogged pores.

• Q: How can I prevent acne scarring? A: The best way to prevent scarring is to avoid picking or squeezing breakouts. Treat pimples promptly with a targeted treatment, and most importantly, protect your skin from the sun every single day. Sun damage can significantly darken post-acne marks and make them last much longer.

• Q: How does the strong NZ sun specifically affect acne and scarring? A: New Zealand’s intense UV radiation has two major impacts on acne-prone skin. Firstly, it can increase inflammation and damage the skin barrier, potentially leading to more breakouts. Secondly, and most significantly, it dramatically darkens the red and brown marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) left behind by healed pimples, making effective daily sun protection non-negotiable.

• Q: How long does it take to see results from a new acne treatment? A: It can take 6-8 weeks of consistent use to see significant improvement in acne. Your skin needs time to adapt and for cell turnover to occur. Don’t give up on a product too quickly unless it’s causing obvious irritation.

• Q: How do I introduce new skincare products without causing a “purging” breakout? A: The key is to go slow. Follow these three steps:

1. 1. 1. Patch Test First: Apply a small amount behind your ear and wait 24-48 hours to check for irritation.

      2. Introduce One at a Time: Use only one new product for at least 2 weeks before adding another.

      3. Start Slow with Actives: Use products with active ingredients (like exfoliants or our Bakuchiol Serum) only 2-3 times per week at first, gradually increasing as your skin adapts.

• Q: Can I use oil on acne-prone skin? A: Yes, but it’s important to choose the right kind of oil. Non-comedogenic oils like jojoba oil or squalane can be very beneficial for acne-prone skin, as they can help balance sebum production and hydrate the skin without clogging pores.

• Q: What’s the difference between a serum and a moisturiser for acne-prone skin? A: Think of it as a two-step process: serums treat, and moisturisers protect. Serums are lightweight with concentrated active ingredients that penetrate deeper to target specific issues like clogged pores and inflammation. Moisturisers are thicker, hydrate the skin’s surface, and lock in the serum while protecting your skin barrier.

• Q: Is Bakuchiol really as effective as Retinol for acne? A: Studies have shown that Bakuchiol, a natural plant-based ingredient, provides results comparable to retinol in improving cell turnover, reducing hyperpigmentation, and calming acne. The major benefit is that Bakuchiol is much gentler and does not typically cause the irritation, redness, and sun sensitivity often associated with retinol, making it an ideal choice for sensitive, acne-prone skin.