There are different kinds of spots so it really depends on which ones you’re dealing with. If you suffer mostly from mild congestion, blackheads or whiteheads, I’d recommend regular use of salicylic acid-based skincare - a brilliant (and gentle) way to keep pores exfoliated and less likely to block in the first place. Check out the Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions range (available from Clinique). If the problem is isolated to one area of the face, you needn’t buy a whole new range of skincare - try just applying Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Clear Blemish Gel ($32) to wherever you are breakout-prone.

If you’re battling with larger spots, which skin doctors refer to as papular or pustular pimples, the main issue is probably bacteria - an excess of bacterial action on the skin’s surface can lead to infections, causing those big nasty blow-outs. In this case, an effective treatment is a spot cream that contains benzoyl peroxide - Clearasil has several options, which can be found at your local pharmacy. Just a word of warning: benzoyl peroxide is very drying, so make sure you only apply it on the actual pimples.

Of course, an even better treatment is prevention. If you get a lot of these particular pimples, have a chat to your doctor. The problem may be hormonal, in which case going on the pill can help clear things up. If the matter is one of an over-supply of sebum, and your pimples are often of the deep, cyst-like variety, your doctor can refer you to a dermatologist for more serious treatment.

PS: Just an FYI - Some other things that may prevent the various spots from popping up: Avoid touching your face throughout the day, as this can transfer bacteria to the skin; Apply a clay-based purifying mask weekly - it’s a gentle way to slough away dead skin cells and to soak up excess oil; Try not to stress - this can trigger oil production, leading to blocked pores; Regularly change or wash your pillowcases; Keep hair styling products away from the hairline - they can clog up pores; Wash face before and after exercising - sweat can also have a pore-blocking effect; and, always take makeup off before bed.

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