Let's Break it down.
What causes Acne?
Excess Sebum Production
The skin naturally produces oil (sebum) to keep it hydrated, but overproduction can clog pores, leading to breakouts. Hormonal fluctuations, genetics, and even some skincare products can trigger excess oil production.Clogged Pores
Dead skin cells should shed naturally, but when they mix with oil, they can block pores. This creates an ideal environment for bacteria to grow, leading to whiteheads, blackheads, and inflamed spots.Bacteria (C. acnes)
The bacteria Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) live on the skin and are generally harmless. However, when trapped in clogged pores, they multiply rapidly, triggering inflammation and pus-filled blemishes.Hormonal Changes
Fluctuations in hormones, particularly androgens, can increase oil production and lead to breakouts. This is common during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and even times of high stress.Inflammation
Acne is an inflammatory condition, meaning redness, swelling, and irritation often accompany breakouts. Factors like diet, stress, and skin irritation can worsen inflammation, making acne more severe.Diet & Lifestyle
While diet doesn’t directly cause acne, certain foods—such as high-glycemic and dairy products—can trigger inflammation and oil production. Lack of sleep, stress, and an unhealthy lifestyle can also contribute to breakouts.
How can we help you?
The first step of any good skincare routine is a cleanser.
Medik8 Clarifying Foam is designed to gently but effectively tackle breakouts without stripping your skin.
It uses a smart mix of AHAs and BHAs—L-mandelic acid works on the surface to clear away dead skin, while salicylic acid dives deep into pores to break down buildup that leads to spots.
Plus, it’s pH-balanced, so it cleans without leaving your skin feeling tight or dry.
A fresh, clear complexion starts here!
Available as full size: Clarifying foam 150ml
AND small size: Clarifying foam Travel 40ml
Before
After
If you’re serious about tackling breakouts, Medik8 Press & Clear is your new go-to.
This powerful yet gentle toner is designed to clear blemishes fast while keeping your skin calm and healthy.
With 2% encapsulated salicylic acid, it dives deep into pores to break down congestion and reduce blackheads—without irritating your skin. Plus, tranexamic acid helps fade stubborn post-blemish marks, so your skin looks clearer and more even over time.
Unlike harsh, drying toners, Press & Clear is pH-balanced and packed with soothing ingredients like sake extract and aloe vera to keep your skin hydrated and happy.
Clear skin, without compromise!
Available as full size: Press & Clear 150ml
Also great is its partner toner - Press & Glow 150ml.
but what is the difference?
Press & Clear is a BHA toner, specially recommended for clarifying sensitive, blemish prone skin.
Press & Glow is a PHA toner that is ideal for anyone looking to smooth uneven tone and texture while boosting glow.
Though you shouldn't use them together you can use one in the morning and the other in the evening.
Alternatively...
Breakouts don’t stand a chance with Medik8’s Blemish Control Pads.
Infused with 2% Salicylic Acid, these powerful yet gentle pads work deep within the pores to dissolve oil buildup, unclog congestion, and help prevent future breakouts.
Allantoin soothes irritation while Glycerin keeps your skin hydrated and balanced—no dryness, no discomfort.
Designed to tackle the root cause of blemishes, these easy-to-use pads leave your skin looking visibly clearer, calmer, and more refined.
Whether you're dealing with occasional breakouts or persistent blemishes, Blemish Control Pads are your go-to for a healthier, blemish-free complexion.
Available as full size: Blemish Control Pads 60 pads
Achieve luminous, glass-like skin with Medik8 Clarity Peptides. This lightweight, hydrating serum is powered by 10% niacinamide to calm redness, support the skin barrier, and reduce blemish-induced irritation. Zinc PCA helps regulate oil production and combat breakout-causing bacteria for a clear, balanced complexion.
Infused with Crystalide™ Peptide, it boosts skin renewal for a smoother, more even glow. Hyaluronic acid and N-acetyl glucosamine provide deep hydration while helping to fade dark spots and enhance radiance.
With its triple-action approach, Clarity Peptides visibly transforms skin—leaving it calm, clear, and illuminated.
Toner/Direct Acid
Cleanser
Spot Treatment
Serum
Take control of sudden breakouts with Medik8 Blemish SOS, a rapid-action spot treatment designed to visibly reduce blemishes while calming redness.
Formulated with 2% Salicylic Acid, it works deep within the pores to dissolve congestion and minimize imperfections.
Niacinamide soothes irritation, while Azelaic Acid fights blemish-causing bacteria for a clearer complexion.
The fast-drying, invisible formula works under or over makeup, making it the perfect on-the-go solution for a healthier-looking, blemish-free complexion.
Available as full size: Blemish SOS 15ml
Available as full size: Clarity Peptides 30ml
Moisturiser
Perfect for oily and blemish-prone skin, Medik8 Balance Moisturiser provides lightweight hydration while helping to regulate oil production and support a healthy skin microbiome.
Infused with niacinamide to calm redness, beta-glucan to soothe irritation, and cinnamon extract to help combat blemish-causing bacteria, it leaves skin feeling smooth, clear, and balanced.
For an added boost, the Glycolic Acid Activator gently exfoliates to remove dead skin cells, revealing a brighter, refined complexion with reduced congestion.
Available as full size: Balance Moisturiser 50ml
+ Glycolic Acid Activator 10ml
Mask
Medik8 Natural Clay Mask is a deep-cleansing treatment designed to detoxify, refine, and mattify the skin.
Infused with kaolin and bentonite clays, it draws out excess oil and impurities, helping to decongest pores and reduce the appearance of blemishes. Niacinamide soothes irritation, while cranberry extract provides antioxidant protection for a healthy, balanced complexion.
With its creamy, non-drying texture, this mask leaves skin feeling refreshed, smooth, and shine-free—perfect for oily and blemish-prone skin in need of a weekly reset.
Available as full size: Natural Clay Mask 75ml