Skin imperfections: our top-rated skincare products, approved by our experts

How do blackheads form?

The cause of blemishes is very often excess sebum. Sometimes this protective ‘wax’ – which is, incidentally, essential for the skin’s balance – takes on a thicker consistency than necessary, usually due to hormonal influences. It therefore finds it harder to flow out of its secretory pore and ends up accumulating in the pilosebaceous follicles. When mixed with the dead skin cells naturally produced by the epidermis over time, it forms ‘plugs’ that you’re no doubt familiar with as ‘comedones’. These are the well-known blackheads and whiteheads. But the story of your blemishes doesn’t end there… It is possible that an imbalance in the skin’s surface microbiota (generally favouring Cutibacterium acnes, formerly known as Propionibacterium acnes) may then develop alongside this blockage. This microbial overgrowth fuels inflammatory processes and can lead to acne lesions.

Below you’ll find the active ingredients and ready-to-use formulas that are most popular with our community when it comes to treating blemishes. Highly recommended for combination to oily skin, they offer purifying and sebum-regulating benefits, as well as soothing and restorative properties. Our aim: to offer you skincare products that are both effective and gentle, whilst respecting the natural balance of the skin’s surface. It’s a delicate balance that we’re proud to have successfully made accessible to all, thanks to natural ingredients and carefully selected dermocosmetic active ingredients.

Bacti-Pur active ingredient. This cosmetic active ingredient has proven efficacy against Propionibacterium acnes, the bacterium associated with acne-prone skin. It has also demonstrated its rebalancing benefits in in vivo tests carried out on volunteers with oily skin. When used regularly, it helps to ‘normalise’ sebum secretion. Recommended concentration: 1–2 per cent of the total weight of your formulation (mattifying cream, balancing serum, purifying cleansing gel, etc.). 99.2 per cent of natural origin, obtained through fermentation.

Organic Sidr Powder. Also known as ‘jujube powder’, it combines astringent and cleansing properties that help to soothe problem skin, such as skin prone to acne or itching. In particular, you can use it to make an oil macerate which you can incorporate into a recipe for a calming and soothing oil. A 100% pure and natural product, certified by Ecocert Greenlife in accordance with the Ecocert standard.

Purifying plant-based soap. This soap is ideal for cleansing acne-prone skin. Its formula, containing shea butter and purifying essential oils, produces a fine, light lather that is easy to rinse off and naturally scented. You can use it on your face, as well as on your body and hands. Made in France, the formula contains 99.9% naturally derived ingredients; it is fragrance-free, contains no synthetic colourants and is certified organic.

Organic Tea Tree Hydrosol. Renowned for its purifying properties, this hydrosol is an essential ally for blemish-prone skin. It also combats the dull complexion often seen in devitalised skin. You can use it undiluted, applying a few drops to a reusable cotton pad to refresh your face first thing in the morning. You can also incorporate it into a cleansing lotion, purifying mask or mattifying cream. Remember to keep it in the fridge between uses.

Organic Rosemary with Verbenone Hydrosol. This hydrosol can replace your usual toner to refresh your skin in the morning or complete your make-up removal routine in the evening. It can be used undiluted or combined with other floral waters suitable for combination to oily skin (tea tree, lavender, etc.). Renowned for its purifying and regulating properties, it helps to balance oily, acne-prone skin. Remember to keep it in the fridge between uses.

5% Niacinamide, Zinc & Hyaluronic Acid Toner. Clinically proven efficacy: does not dry out the skin, reduces blemishes, refines skin texture, soothes the skin, leaves the complexion radiant, reduces redness and provides a feeling of hydration. This is a very gentle skin-perfecting treatment. Use it after cleansing or removing make-up, before applying your usual serum or cream. Made in France, dermatologically tested, vegan, alcohol-free and fragrance-free, suitable for sensitive skin.

10% Niacinamide, Copper & Zinc Concentrated Serum. Clinically proven to improve the appearance of pores, redness and blackheads, and to reduce sebum production. Formulated with a gel-based texture enriched with hyaluronic acid and Fucocert, it has a gentle texture that is instantly absorbed by the skin without leaving a greasy film. Made in France, dermatologically tested, vegan, suitable for use during pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding, available as an eco-refill.

10% Glycolic Acid & AHA Concentrated Serum. Clinically proven to improve the appearance of pores and dark spots, brighten the complexion and smooth the skin’s texture. Comparable to a peel in a bottle, it works through an exfoliating action that combines two benefits: combating blemishes and fighting the signs of ageing. Its formula is gentle on the skin. However, you should only use it in the evening, and apply a suitable sunscreen the following day. Plumping gel texture, made in France, dermatologically tested formula, vegan, available as an eco-refill.

Zinc Hyaluronate & Plant-Based Salicylic Acid Fluid Cream. This day cream combines gentleness and effectiveness in a lightweight texture with a matt, velvety finish. Ideal for both adults and teenagers, it reduces the appearance of established blemishes whilst providing long-lasting hydration and a soothing effect. Fragrance-free and essential oil-free formula, 100% natural origin, certified organic, vegan and dermatologically tested. Made in France, available as an eco-refill.

Organic laurel berry vegetable oil. Ideal for skin prone to acne or atopic conditions (eczema, psoriasis), it has purifying, deep-cleansing and astringent properties. You can incorporate it into your Aleppo soap recipes or use it as a standalone facial treatment. Unlike most vegetable oils, it is too potent to be used undiluted on the skin. We recommend diluting it to a maximum of 40–50 per cent in a more neutral vegetable oil or within a formula.

These testimonials collected on our website show that natural products can be an effective solution to the problems of blemish-prone skin. They tend to prove that simple formulas, based on recognised active ingredients that are gentle on the skin barrier, are generally enough to restore a clearer, more even complexion, without breaking the bank. It’s also worth remembering that it takes time and consistency for the initial results to become long-lasting.

“Excellent product! Used on my face once a day, this soap has significantly reduced my adult acne problems. At the start, you have to wait about two months to really see the results (partly because of the scars). I’ve been using this soap for about four years now and it has really improved my daily life.” Cindy, on the Purifying Plant-Based Soap

"This toner moisturises your face after cleansing. I just follow it up with my serum and moisturiser and it’s amazing! It’s also helped me get rid of the little spots I had around my nose and on my forehead." Hodan, on the 5% Niacinamide, Zinc & Hyaluronic Acid Toner

"This is the third time I’ve bought it – it’s brilliant, the texture is perfect and it gives great results." Carla, on the 10% Niacinamide, Copper & Zinc Concentrated Serum

Our Biochemistry and Natural Active Ingredients Engineer, Emilie Ondet

"When you have blemish-prone skin, it’s very tempting to ‘strip’ the skin’s surface. This is a bad idea, as damaged skin will defend itself… notably by producing even more sebum. We therefore recommend avoiding potentially harsh skincare products, starting with soaps that are too alkaline and irritating surfactants such as anionic ones. Instead, opt for very gentle cleansers, but do not use them more than twice a day (morning and evening). Applying a moisturiser is still strongly recommended, even if you have oily skin. Good hydration – and, by extension, an efficient skin barrier – is linked to better management of blemishes (9), including those of a hormonal nature. And of course, avoid touching your spots, as this could lead to infection. If your blemishes persist, consult a dermatologist, as the symptoms of acne, however common they may be, are indeed classified as a chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous follicle.”

Our naturopath, Lou Dumas

"We tend to forget it, but managing blemishes also involves an internal approach. Several studies have, in fact, shown that lifestyle can contribute to the formation of blackheads. This is particularly true of diet. Generally speaking, it is best to avoid consuming too many foods with a high glycaemic index, as these tend to fuel inflammatory processes (8). There is less clinical evidence regarding ultra-processed foods, but here too, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Instead, opt for natural sources of omega-3s (small oily fish such as mackerel and sardines, and linseed and perilla seed oils), which may play a significant role in preventing blemishes."

The cosmetics, ingredients and active ingredients featured in this guide may be subject to precautions and/or restrictions on use. Please read the relevant technical data sheet carefully before use. If you are making your own skincare products at home, please follow the recommended dosages set out in our technical data sheets and recipe sheets. Remember that blemish-prone skin is also sensitive skin. To minimise the risk of a widespread adverse reaction, take the time to test a new formula before incorporating it into your routine. Apply a small amount to your wrist or the crook of your elbow and wait 48 hours to ensure your skin tolerates it.

Hélène Betoux is a French beauty journalist specialising in web media. Every day she writes tips, advice, and guides to help consumers choose the right beauty products. With a strong interest in natural, organic, and clean cosmetics, she analyses and shares trends and innovations in the sector.