Breakouts & Blackheads

Clogged pores, blackheads and surface-level breakouts caused by a build-up of oil, dead skin and bacteria.

Breakouts and blackheads both start the same way: a pore becomes blocked with oil, dead skin cells and bacteria. The difference is mainly whether the pore stays open (a blackhead, which oxidises and darkens) or closes over and becomes inflamed (a breakout).

Why they happen

Overactive oil glands, a build-up of dead skin cells that don’t shed properly, and bacteria that thrive in blocked pores are the main contributors. Humidity and sweat add to this by increasing how much oil sits on the skin’s surface throughout the day, which is part of why breakouts can feel more constant in a hot, humid climate than a cooler one.

What tends to help

Regular, gentle cleansing (especially after sweating), non-comedogenic (oil-free) skincare and sunscreen, and avoiding picking at blackheads, which can worsen inflammation and scarring, are common first steps. Overwashing or harsh scrubbing can actually increase oil production as skin tries to compensate, so gentle and consistent tends to outperform aggressive.

When to get a professional opinion

Breakouts that are persistent, painful, cystic or leaving marks behind are worth discussing with a professional rather than managing with shop-bought products alone, since the right approach depends on what’s actually causing them.

Tropical North Queensland context

Heat and humidity increase oil and sweat production, which is why breakouts and blackheads tend to be more persistent and frequent in a tropical climate like Cairns.