Impurities, causes, and what really helps

Impurities are one of the most common skin problems, affecting not only teenagers but also adults. Blackheads, pimples, clogged pores, and an oily sheen can make the skin look dull and troubled. But what actually causes impurities, and what really helps?

Causes of Impurities

Impurities arise when pores become clogged by a combination of excess sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria. This can have several causes.

Excessive sebum production, often hormonally driven
Insufficient or incorrect cleansing
Use of comedogenic products that clog pores
Stress and lack of sleep increase sebum production
Diet, particularly sugar and dairy, can worsen impurities in some people
A disrupted skin barrier or microbiome

"Impurities are rarely the result of a single cause. I always look at the whole picture: the routine, the products, the lifestyle. Often, a simple adjustment is enough to bring the skin back into balance."

Yvonne van Veen, medical aesthetician

What Really Helps with Impurities?

Step 1: Cleanse Gently but Thoroughly

Good cleansing is the foundation. Use the IK SKIN Perfection - SILK+ mild 3-in-1 facial cleanser to remove dirt and excess sebum without stripping the skin. Over-cleansing is counterproductive and actually stimulates more sebum production.

Step 2: Use Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid (BHA) is one of the most effective ingredients for impurities. It is oil-soluble and cleanses pores from within. The IK SKIN Perfection - SALICYL ACID+ is a targeted treatment that refines pores and tackles impurities without irritating the skin.

Step 3: Detox and Purify

The IK SKIN Perfection - BAMBOO DETOX+ is a purifying mask that absorbs excess sebum, cleanses pores, and refreshes the skin. Use it one to two times a week as an addition to your daily routine.

Step 4: Support the Skin with a Complete Routine

For a structural approach to impurities, the IK SKIN Perfection - Daily Acne Skin Solution Set offers a complete daily routine specially formulated for impure skin. All steps are coordinated for optimal results.

Step 5: Refine Skin Texture

After addressing impurities, the IK SKIN Perfection - Smoothing Serum Layering Routine helps refine skin texture and make the skin more even and smooth.

What You Should Avoid

Squeezing pimples, as this increases the risk of scarring and spreading bacteria
Excessive scrubbing, as this irritates the skin and worsens inflammation
Heavy, comedogenic creams that clog pores
Using too many different active ingredients at once

Tip: Give a new routine at least six to eight weeks before drawing conclusions. The skin needs time to respond to changes.

About the Author

This article was written in collaboration with Yvonne van Veen, medical aesthetician, owner of Salon Rustique in Musselkanaal, and owner of sQincare.shop. Salon Rustique is affiliated with ANBOS and specializes in skin improvement, skin problems, and medical skin care. Thanks to her daily practical experience and additional dermatological training, she combines treatments in the salon with expert product advice for home use.

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