Dermalogica Post-Breakout Fix 15ml
Description
Description
Gel-cream for dark spots after pimples
The real problem with a pimple often begins only after the pimple itself has disappeared. What remains is a red, brown, or purplish spot that can be visible for weeks — post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or PIH for short. Especially teenagers and young adults with a darker skin tone suffer from this, often leading to picking or squeezing in hopes of speeding up healing. This then causes a new round of spots.
The Post-Breakout Fix is specifically developed for the phase after an active pimple. A light gel-cream that works on the remaining spot with a single targeted drop, combining salicylic acid, hexylresorcinol, and carob extract scientifically formulated to fade pigment spots. Clinical research showed that 95% of users saw less discoloration within four weeks — a result that is exceptionally remarkable for an over-the-counter product.
Advantages
- Fades red and brown spots left by pimples
- Evens out skin tone and gives the skin a healthier appearance
- Hydrates simultaneously with squalane, unlike drying acne products
- Suitable for both fresh and older spots
- Packaging made from 25% recycled plastic (PCR)
Active ingredients
Hexylresorcinol: An advanced brightening molecule considered a safe and effective alternative to hydroquinone. It inhibits melanin production in targeted spots and helps fade post-inflammatory pigmentation. Scientific studies show that with regular use, hexylresorcinol is significantly more effective than vitamin C in addressing PIH.
Salicylic Acid: A mild dose that exfoliates the top layer of skin, accelerating the natural fading process. By removing cells with excess pigment more quickly, the new skin layer underneath becomes visible — one that is not yet affected by pigment.
Carob (Locust Bean) Seed Extract: A lesser-known but particularly powerful plant ingredient that stimulates the skin’s natural regeneration process. It specifically targets the cells involved in tissue repair, making the skin smoother and more even in areas of previous blemishes.
Squalane: A plant-based lipid that resembles the skin’s own lipids in molecular structure. It restores the skin barrier in areas weakened by previous inflammation and prevents the active acids in the formula from drying out the skin. This makes the Post-Breakout Fix uniquely gentle compared to classic spot treatments.
Caffeyl Glucoside & Phytosterols: Two plant-based antioxidants that protect the skin from further oxidative damage — an important aspect because pigmentation spots tend to darken without protection when exposed to UV. Phytosterols also help strengthen the skin barrier for lasting improvement.
How to use it
- Cleanse your face and optionally apply a toner
- Press an amount the size of a grain of rice onto your fingertip
- Tip: apply directly to the red or brown spot you want to treat — not over the entire face
- Allow the product 30 to 60 seconds to absorb before applying your moisturizer
- Use twice daily, morning and evening, and repeat until the spot has faded
Suitable for
- Teenagers and young adults with post-inflammatory pigmentation spots after pimples
- Adults with occasional pimples that leave visible spots
- People with a darker or olive skin tone who are extra sensitive to PIH
- Also usable as a spot treatment on active pimples
- Not intended for deep acne scars or moles — discuss these with a dermatologist
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take before I see results?
According to Dermalogica’s clinical study, 95% of users saw a reduction in discoloration after four weeks. Many users report improvement after just two weeks of consistent use. Older spots that have been visible for months or years require longer treatment — expect six to eight weeks for visible results.
Does it work on active pimples or only on the spots left behind?
Although the product is specifically formulated for post-inflammatory pigmentation, many people also use it as a spot treatment on active pimples. The salicylic acid helps clear the pimple, and once the inflammation subsides, the hexylresorcinol continues to work on the pigmentation spot. An efficient two-in-one approach.
Can I combine the Post-Breakout Fix with the Breakout Clearing Booster from the same line?
Yes, that is a logical combination. Use the Breakout Clearing Booster specifically on active pimples and the Post-Breakout Fix on spots left from previous pimples. However, we recommend not layering both products on the exact same spot at the same time — this unnecessarily burdens the skin with too many active ingredients.
Is this product safe to use during pregnancy?
The Post-Breakout Fix contains a low dose of salicylic acid, which is considered acceptable by most doctors during pregnancy. Hexylresorcinol has limited research regarding pregnancy, so it is best to discuss with your midwife or doctor whether it suits your situation. When in doubt, waiting until after pregnancy or breastfeeding is usually the safest option.
