The Regimen

Why pimple patches don't work

Conventional wisdom says when a pimple pops up, you can make it disappear quickly by going into attack mode and spot treating that unwelcome visitor. That, however, is a short-sighted approach that will keep you in constant maintenance mode. We’ll explain.

How does a pimple form?

It takes about thirty days for a pimple to form. Under the surface, there is a network of micro-comedones forming as dead skin cells and sebum mix and create a plug. As more oil is produced, this impaction traps it in the follicle, and it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. The growing bacteria irritate the follicle and oil gland, which then triggers redness and swelling. What you see on the surface, has been brewing for weeks at the micro-comedone level. And the next batch is already on the way. So, while you may indeed see that pimple make a relatively quick retreat with spot treatment, you are leaving the seeds for a whole new crop of pimples to pop up on its heels.

What happens when you spot treat an individual lesion?

When you spot treat only the individual lesion, you allow bacteria in the surrounding skin to continue to grow and spread. To really clear your skin, you need to treat the underlying condition, and that means using your skin care product all over your face. Otherwise, you are essentially playing whack-a-mole on your face.  Best wisdom: use a transformative skin care product all over for overall clearer skin.


Acne Clearing Heroes

Derm-A-Gel® Daily Vitamin A

Derm-A-Gel® is Vivant’s vitamin A starter formula for skin new to vitamin A. This multi-tasking skin resurfacer accelerates cell turnover to clear away dead skin, excess sebum, and debris that would otherwise create the foundation for clogged pores. It also helps to thicken the dermis and strengthen the skin barrier. Use it to clear, control and conquer. 

3% Mandelic Acid 3-In-1 Toner
This multi-tasking essential refines surface texture, aids the dispersal and prevention of excess pigment, and enhances serum absorption for accelerated results.

10% BP Gel Medication

Benzoyl peroxide penetrates into pores releasing free-radical oxygen to kill bacteria that causes acne and inflammation. It’s also a keratolytic agent. That means it causes a peeling reaction to clear dead skin and remove impactions. For very oily or resistant skin. Note that benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics, so be careful of your clothing and sheets if using it at night.

8% Mandelic Acid 3-In-1 Serum

This gentle, high-performance formulation is one of our best-sellers and best-reviewed for targeting acne, aging, and hyperpigmentation without irritation. Our customers call it “magic in a bottle.”

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