Repairing skin blemishes and breakouts

Esthetician cost

Be clear about the cost of any professional program you may undertake. A complete program may range from about $500 to more than $2,000.

If you are setting up your own in-house plan, always do a patch test before trying any new products. Rub a little on your neck and wait for 24 hours. If there is any reaction at all, switch to another product.

Blemish analysis

Not all blemishes have the same characteristics.

• Cyst: A cyst is a hard, sore lump under the skin that can last for weeks. They most often occur in the chin and jaw area. They develop deep in the dermis and that's where they will heal. The only topical treatment that helps is one that penetrates deep into the dermis.
• Surface blemish: Commonly called a 'zit', it forms a yellowish whitehead after a couple of days. When it is 'ripe' gently try to squeeze out the infection. Then apply a healing gel.
• Cluster bumps: Often on the forehead. They usually represent clogged oil that is trapped under the skin. This is not an infection and using any drying products, such as an acne product, doesn't help. Instead, gently exfoliate to help release the trapped oil. A professional facial usually helps.

Breakouts

If you tend to get blemishes, leave them alone. Picking at them can result in scarring that can take weeks to heal.

Clogged pores

A professional facial can safely clean out your pores without scarring. Then, occasionally exfoliate so dry skin can't clog pores. Disinfect any affected areas and moisturize to prevent dry skin buildup.

Discolouration

Any type of discolouration, including brown spots, is associated with age, but also can appear at any age as a result of sun exposure, genetics or hormonal changes in the body.

Beware: Don’t experiment with new skin products the week before your wedding.

Approaching the wedding

Don't have a facial the week you are to be married. This is a high-stress time and you may have a skin reaction that will result in a red complexion.

The morning of the wedding, have a gel mask. Choose one you have used before. These are gentle, water-based and won't add oil to the skin. Leave on for 10 minutes, rinse and and then apply an oil-free lotion.