Ask a Beauty Editor: How to Tackle Spots

I’m always getting asked questions about beauty— from what’s the best mascara to where’s the best place to get brows done; but the #1 question has to be: ‘what can I do to reduce a spot?’

Over the years, I’ve quizzed plenty of dermatologists with the very same question. Because let’s face it, whenever there’s a big event coming up, the last thing you need is an angry crater popping up on your chin.

I won’t lie to you— there’s no miracle cure. But there are some go-to things you can do to dramatically reduce spot size, redness and most importantly, make sure your skin heals itself underneath with no scarring or redness left behind.

What to do when you get a spot:

Keep the area clean and apply an acne gel. Look for spot treatments that contain salicylic acid— a beta hydroxy acid that works deep into the pore, helping to unclog it of any dirt, grime and excess sebum.

If you have more sensitive skin, opt for a mandelic acid — a more gentle alpha hydroxy acid. Unlike salicylic that’s able to penetrate deep into the pore, mandelic acid works to gently exfoliate the top layers of skin, revealing the brighter skin beneath.

Which spot treatments work best?

NeoStrata Spot Treatment Gel, £21.99 combines both salicylic and mandelic acid for a double whammy of spot busting help.

The Ordinary’s Salicylic Acid 2% Solution, £3.90 is a great, cheaper alternative that also contains witch hazel.

Mario Badescu Drying Lotion, £16 is a cult product that really works. It’s a blend of calamine and salicylic acid, and is really good for people with more sensitive skin. Just dip a cotton bud into the pink solution and apply directly to the spot.

For a quick fix:

If you need an immediate result, go old-school. Rub an ice cube over the spot for a few minutes which will bring down the swelling and redness. Then, pack on the concealer and hope for the best.