This post may contain affiliate links. I may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post. I will never recommend any products that I don't believe in. Please read my Disclosure for more info.

Everyday blemishes develop when excess sebum and dead skin cells clog your pores.  When this builds up and can’t get out it forms a plug that can grow. Bacteria can get in and infect the pore causing a blemish.  Hormones contribute to blemishes because they stimulate excess oil production.  Poor cleansing habits also contribute to blemishes when debris on the skin isn’t thoroughly removed.

Pore-related problems.

Blackheads are plugs that are open to the air.  Their dark color is actually due the exposure to air.

Whiteheads are plugs of sebum that remain under the skin and are not exposed to the air.  When your pore continues to fill with sebum and dead skin cells, it can rupture causing an unsightly pimple.

Cysts are small, enclosed deposits of sebum and dead skin cells within the skin that show up as small bumps on the surface of your skin.  Examples of cysts include; milia (tiny white bumps that tend to show up under the eyes) and follicular cysts (cysts that occur at the root of a hair.)

Cleansers and spot treatments containing benzoyl peroxide are effective at treating everyday blemishes.  Cleanse your face thoroughly with a facial wash that has at least 2% benzoyl peroxide and then apply a benzoyl peroxide spot treatment directly on the problem area, giving it a one-two punch.  If it doesn’t dry out your skin too much you can increase the percentage of benzoyl peroxide.