What causes skin spots? For some of us, this is a rare occurrence and is usually the result of sun exposure, allergies or stress. For many, blotchy skin appears on a continuous basis, covering not only the face but also parts of the body. Blotchy skin can be associated with certain skin conditions, including eczema and rosacea, but for many, the cause of their blotchy skin remains a mystery.
If you’re looking for answers to your skin blemish symptoms, we can guide you to a calmer complexion. We’ll share our knowledge of “Blotchy Skin 101” and provide tips and best practices on how to clear blemishes for more even-looking skin.
What causes skin spots?
Some of the most common causes of skin blemishes may be hiding right under your nose. A major cause could be using products that are too harsh – so the first step should be to choose products with natural, mild ingredients. Choosing products for sensitive skin can be the first step in your battle against blemish-prone skin, but there are a few other tips that can help.
These are the top causes of skin blemishes, along with recommended products to help your skin survive!
Extreme heat or weather
A major culprit of blotchy skin is excessive heat and weather conditions. Too hot showers and too much sun exposure are at the top of this list as we can control them on a daily basis. And we love nothing more than a hot shower after a long day or spending a warm, clean day lying on a towel in the bright sun.
While our bodies certainly need the relaxation and benefits of vitamin D that comes from the sun, too much of either is harmful for blemished skin. Too much sun, heat rash and harmful UV rays can cause instant spots on your skin. UV rays also lead to long-term damage, dark spots, brown spots, uneven skin tone, early signs of aging and skin cancer.
Extreme weather conditions in general – such as freezing cold winds, high altitude and humid weather – will also worsen the appearance of red, blotchy skin. Give skin a fighting chance against the elements by adding SPF under makeup or on exposed skin. If you know you are prone to skin blemishes, be sure to add an extra layer of protection such as a scarf, umbrella, hat and/or sunnies to further protect yourself from what is sure to be a negative skin reaction.
Product description: Yerba Mate Mist SPF 30 Cover skin with a lightweight SPF that includes some of the same ingredients from your treasured skincare collection. In addition to protective zinc oxide, this featherweight mist also contains ultra-gentle, non-greasy jojoba to condition and soften skin.
Yerba mate may fly under the radar in the skin care world, but its vitamin A and C content is vital to this natural sunscreen. While vitamin C deserves a round of applause for all the skin glow #I work It provides, vitamin A is also effective for antiaging in terms of skin cell turnover for fresh, less blemished skin.
Physical or emotional stress
We all know that stress shows up first in our mood and second on our skin. Keep in mind that worrying too much about your hormonal rash or skin rash will make it worse. Keep stress/skin breakouts to a minimum with a modest addition to your beauty arsenal. a product that is both multifunctional and luxurious.
Product composition: Argan oil
This raw, unrefined oil is rich and silky, but not too heavy for daytime use. Its non-irritating formula makes it the perfect product for redness and sensitive skin. Argan oil is a soothing treatment when you suffer from scaly patches, skin blemishes or inflamed spots.
Poor skin maintenance
We’ve all been there. It could be a new role at work, a new butt-kicking workout, or an unbeatable daily routine with your kids. For most of us with busy schedules, this usually means spending less energy focusing on the skin. Soon we notice less consistency in our skin tone and more spots appear, with excessive redness to boot.
Don’t worry: this stain doesn’t have to be permanent. Here’s what we use to soothe a rough patch of dry, uneven skin:
Product Description: Green Tea Water Bomb Mask
This mask will definitely make you laugh if you look at your reflection while wearing it, but the benefits are no joke. The green tea in this mask is rich in antioxidants which means it’s naturally anti-inflammatory and helps protect against sun and environmental damage. Combined with soothing aloe and super-hydrating hyaluronic acid, this mask will leave you looking and feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
For those struggling with extreme redness or recently sunburned skin, opt for a skin-calming caffeine mask. Caffeine is known to stimulate circulation in the skin, to return healthy color to your complexion. It also gently constricts blood vessels to effectively calm redness and minimize the appearance of pores.
Allergies and new or existing skin conditions
If you’re living with blotchy skin as a result of a skin condition like rosacea or an unknown allergy, the first step is to simplify your beauty routine. This means using more natural, healthy ingredients, less of the stuff that clogs your skin, and opting for lighter makeup.
Skin problems such as contact dermatitis, allergic reactions and broken blood vessels are also major contributors to skin spots. Avoiding harsh treatments such as chemical peels and strong retinoids can help, but in general you should ensure that the products applied to your skin are extremely gentle. You don’t want to use anything that can aggravate existing sensitive skin conditions.
Product description: BB Cream
Why do we recommend it as your new favorite foundation? This beauty balm is lightweight and feels weightless on the skin. It has a moisturizing and healthy aloe base to nourish your skin throughout use. It’s also infused with soothing lavender oil – a botanical friend for blemished skin.
PRO TIP: Need a little more coverage than a BB cream usually provides? Start with a layer of corrective green to hide stubborn skin and red spots under your foundation.
Alcohol consumption
One thing you can probably guess that causes skin blemishes is alcohol and adult beverages. While this a glass of red wine with your daily evening meal may be good for your heart and blood, bad for blemished skin. Alcohol can cause increased blood flow, which will worsen the appearance of redness on your skin. It can also introduce toxins into the body that are not beneficial for clear, even skin.
Product Recommendation: Does It All Sheet Mask
This mask is a quick fix to a fun night with unexpected consequences (and we’re not talking about those inappropriate texts to your ex). This mask contains some of the ingredients we mentioned above like vitamins A and C, with other helpful heroes like aloe, chamomile and rose. These ingredients will have an immediate soothing and softening effect, so if your blotchy skin is caused by the sauce, enjoy calmer skin in 20 minutes or less.
Want more recommendations for sensitive skin products? Check out our post on sensitive skin care products and even the best foundation for sensitive skin! We wish you all the best in your battle against blemished skin and remember – if you are gentle with your skin and treat it gently, your chances of redness will be significantly lower!
Frequently Asked Questions about Blotchy Skin
What are the common causes of skin mottling?
Blotchy skin can be caused by a number of factors, including allergic reactions, skin conditions such as rosacea or eczema, sun exposure, extreme weather conditions, hormonal changes and stress. It can also be a reaction to certain skincare products or medications. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial to effective treatment.
How can I prevent skin spots?
Prevention of skin spotting involves a combination of skin care practices and lifestyle adjustments. Use gentle, hypoallergenic skin care products and always wear sunscreen to protect against UV rays. Avoid extreme temperatures and harsh weather conditions and try to manage stress effectively. Additionally, stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support overall skin health.
What skin care ingredients are effective for treating blemished skin?
Skin care ingredients that can be effective in treating blemished skin include niacinamide, which reduces inflammation, and green tea extracts, known for their soothing properties. Hyaluronic acid and ceramides can help hydrate the skin and strengthen the skin barrier. For skin discoloration, ingredients like vitamin C and licorice root extract can be beneficial. It is important to avoid harsh ingredients such as alcohol and perfumes that can aggravate the skin.
Can lifestyle changes help improve blemished skin?
Yes, lifestyle changes can significantly improve blemished skin. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants can protect the skin. Regular exercise improves circulation, which can help even out skin tone. Adequate sleep and stress management are also important, as stress can cause or worsen skin conditions. In addition, avoiding excessive alcohol and smoking, which can worsen the spots, is crucial.
When should I see a dermatologist for skin spots?
You should see a dermatologist for blemished skin if the condition persists despite over-the-counter treatments, worsens, or significantly affects your quality of life. A dermatologist can diagnose the underlying cause of the spotting and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include prescription creams, laser therapy, or other medical interventions depending on the cause and severity of the skin condition.
