FAQ's
First, the big question: Spots: To squeeze or not to squeeze?
These are the official rules!
Don't squeeze:
Don't touch angry red spots - you'll force the bacteria deeper into the skin, and the spot will become even angrier and redder. Don't squeeze white raised lumps.
Squeeze:
A spot with a yellow top is OK for squeezing. Blackheads can also be squeezed. Make sure you wash your hands first and put a tissue over your finger to catch the contents. Squeeze gently and don’t use nails – they’ll damage the skin. Stop if nothing is happening; when you see clear fluid rather than pus; or if you see blood. After squeezing, dab the spot with antiseptic or tea tree oil. Now leave well alone. Wash hands again.
What's the difference between spots and acne?
Acne is the medical name for all spots - doctors refer to all spots as acne, whether you have 2 or 200.
Does sweating affect acne?
Yes. Up to 15% of sufferers find their acne flares up when they have been sweating a lot. This is probably because of water swelling and blocking the partial hair duct, and causing inflammation.
Can clothes affect spots?
Continual pressure from headbands, tight bra straps and collars can cause spots in those areas of skin. Nobody’s quite sure why, but it could be because of sweat being concentrated in those areas.
Why do I get spots around the time of my period?
Women often experience spots during their menstrual cycle; this is because of hormones stimulating oil production.