As part of a new series of blogs I will be taking an in-depth look at spots. What causes them, what not to do (spoiler alert - don't pick them) and what products I recommend to keep those breakouts at bay.

My own struggles with acne started in my early teens. From about 13 onwards I tried every cream and wash on the market. I’d spend hours squeezing my blackheads and even used nail varnish on my spots. Hardly surprising then, that all that messing just made them redder and angrier. I’d stare in the mirror, wondering why my skin was dry and flaky one day and oily the next.

But it was these experiences and experiments that led me to not only find solutions to heal my own skin but develop a career helping others tackle their skincare woes, and one that I still feel passionate about to this day.

WHY DO WE GET SPOTS?

Most of us will get spots at some point, but they are more likely to occur during our teens. This happens because as our bodies start to develop our hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands creating more sebum. However, there may be other issues behind them.

Poor diet: Too much sugar or starchy food that is not rich in vitamins.

Stress: Hormones are produced when we feel anxious and this can lead to spots.

Picking: This can spread bacteria, leading to further breakouts.

Squeezing: Closed, boil-type spots are called papules and because the bacteria can’t come out of the top when you squeeze them they create a root for another spot to form.

Alkaline skin: Over-dry, alkaline skin breaks down your natural defences and causes acne-like reactions.

Oily skin: Sebum is the oily substance that protects and hydrates our skin and is vital to keep it looking healthy; however too much can lead to clogged pores. Oily hair can have an effect too so don’t wash it every day and instead opt for hair-strengthening shampoo.

While acne is most likely to occur in our teens, it still affects up to 25% of us as adults. I have created a range of skin-saving solutions to tackle spots and acne, and leave skin looking healthy.

You can read the next part of my breakout blog series here.