πΏ Why Do Pimples Appear on the Face? Which Serum Works Best β Vitamin C, Alpha Arbutin, or Niacinamide?
Almost everyone has faced pimples or acne at some point in life. Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin β breakouts can be frustrating.
But did you know that pimples are not just caused by dirt or oil? They are also triggered by *hormonal imbalance, stress, and an unhealthy skincare routine.
π 1. Why Do Pimples Appear?
Pimples form when your pores get clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. This leads to inflammation and infection β causing red bumps or acne.
Main causes include:
1. Hormonal changes β during puberty, menstruation, or stress, your body produces more oil (sebum).
2. Unhealthy diet β excess sugar, dairy, and fried foods can trigger acne.
3. Dirty pillowcases & phones β bacteria can easily transfer to your face.
4. Using harsh products β stripping the skin barrier worsens breakouts.
π‘ *Tip: Pimples canβt be cured just by washing your face. You need the right active ingredients that balance oil, kill bacteria, and fade acne marks.
π§ 2. Which Serum Is the Most Effective?
There are three popular serums that target acne and pigmentation β Vitamin C, Alpha Arbutin, and Niacinamide.
But they all work differently π
π (A) Vitamin C β For Brightness and Glow

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that brightens the skin, reduces pigmentation, and promotes collagen.
Itβs excellent for fading acne marks and dullness β but itβs not ideal for active pimples, as it may irritate inflamed skin.
When to use:
* After pimples have healed, to fade dark spots
* Morning routine, followed by sunscreen
*How to apply:
1. Apply 2β3 drops after cleansing.
2. Wait 2 minutes, then apply moisturizer.
3. Finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen.
π‘ Best for: Dull skin and post-acne pigmentation.
βͺ (B) Alpha Arbutin β For Dark Spots and Uneven Tone

Alpha Arbutin is a gentle skin-brightening agent that reduces melanin production.
It helps lighten acne marks, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone β without irritation.
When to use:
* At night, on clean skin
* Safe for daily use
How to apply:
1. After cleansing, apply 2β3 drops evenly.
2. Follow with a moisturizer.
3. If used in the morning, always wear sunscreen.
π‘ Best for: Fading acne scars and achieving a brighter complexion.
π¦ (C) Niacinamide β For Pimples and Oil Control

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is one of the most versatile and skin-friendly actives.
It helps control oil, reduce redness, shrink pores, and prevent breakouts β making it ideal for acne-prone skin.
Regular use of Niacinamide results in smoother, balanced, and clearer skin.
When to use:
* Morning and night, every day
* Safe for all skin types
How to apply:
1. After cleansing, apply 2β3 drops to your face.
2. Gently massage it in.
3. Apply moisturizer and sunscreen (if using during the day).
β οΈ 4. Common Mistakes That Make Pimples Worse
π« Over-washing your face
π« Trying too many new products
π« Popping or squeezing pimples
π« Skipping sunscreen
π« Eating oily or sugary foods
π« Staying up late or constant stress
π 5. Final Verdict
* **For active pimples: Start with Niacinamide
* **For acne marks: Use Alpha Arbutin
* **For glowing skin after acne: Switch to Vitamin C
Consistency is key β youβll start seeing improvement in 2 weeks, and clear glowing skin within 4β6 weeks.
π Conclusion
Pimples are normal β but with the right skincare routine, they can easily be managed.
Choose gentle actives, stay consistent, and protect your skin barrier with sunscreen.
If youβre a beginner, start with **Niacinamide Serum** β itβs safe, soothing, and effective for all skin types.
Then gradually add **Alpha Arbutin** and **Vitamin C** for spot correction and glow.
β¨ Discover clean and effective formulas at [ZS PastrySkin.com](https://pastryskin.com) β made for clear, confident, and radiant skin.