Zits, pimples, spots, no matter what you call them, we’re all going to experience them at some stage in our lives (and if you haven’t, please let us in on your secret).

Breakouts not only cause physical distress but also emotional, leading to a lack of confidence and poor self esteem. In addition to trying a myriad of treatments for their pimples, some of which are completely wrong for their skin type, women are also guilty of concealing their blemishes with truckloads of make-up, which often exacerbates the problem.

Thankfully there are ways in which we can work to prevent and treat nasty breakouts should they arise. Here’s our guide to the cause and how to prevent them using Clinique’s Clear Skin System.

There are many reasons breakouts occur. Some of them we can’t avoid, like sweating and exposure to environmental pollutants. Others we can, like improper cleansing, leaving make-up on and constantly touching our faces. These can block pores, which are the main culprit when it comes to pimples. The longer a pore is blocked, the more bacteria will multiply. Hormonal changes in the body can also play a part and are often the reason women experience breakouts during menopause or pregnancy. Contrary to popular belief our diets aren’t to blame, so your welcome to reach for that chocolate bar after all!

Treating breakouts is simple, if you have the right tools. Begin by cleansing the skin using the Clinique Acne Solution Cleansing foam, which won’t dry out the skin. Then gently exfoliate your face with the Clinique Acne Solutions Clarifying Lotion. Exfoliating unclogs pores, allowing oxygen to evict pimple-causing bacteria. It also allows for any medicated ingredients to rush in and accelerate treatment.

Did you know that drying out your skin can cause it to produce more sebum and therefore more breakouts? So keep your skin moisturised with a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser like Clinique’s Acne Solutions Clearing Moisturizer, that soothes and hydrates.

The Clinique Clear Skin Systemuses two fragrance free acne medications—salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, delivering a one-two punch. You’ll see a 37% improvement in 3 days on active blemishes, and then it just keeps getting better. Continue to use it to prevent them from coming back.

And if you have an breakout emergency then you’re in luck as the Clinique Anti Blemish Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel will sort this out for you pronto!

Dark spots can follow a nasty breakout. Now’s the time to use theClinique Even Better Dark Spot Corrector,which visibly reduces dark spots, including scarring, in just 4 weeks.

And in case you were wondering the sun doesn’t help clear up breakouts, it can actually trigger them! If you’re using an pimple treatment then it’s best to steer clear of the sun and always apply an effective sun cream to your skin.

Do you have a pimple horror story? We want to hear it! Tell us about it in the comments box below: