Treatments for Blackheads

Dermatologists refer to them as "open comedones". In simple terms, they are commonly called "blackheads". A comedone or a blackhead is an open oil duct plugged with dead skin cells, dirt, debris, and oil. They are most commonly found on the nose.

Since the skin produces oil and forms new cells to replace those constantly shed off, this makes blackheads difficult to prevent. HOW TO GET RID OF BLACKHEADS

The following are tips that can help prevent/lessen blackheads and their recurrence:

FACIAL OR FACIAL ACNE SURGERY - No actual surgical procedure is done except the usual "facial" where the Dermatologist clears away blackheads and debris by means of a tool called an extractor. Thinner than a pencil and with a round opening on one end, this is used to remove blackheads from the pores. The advantage of this procedure is that it's a quick and effective process. The disadvantage is that minor discomfort is expected to occur. Widely available these days for use by dermatologists are machines that vacuum out blackheads. Little or no discomfort is caused by the use of such machines.

WASHING THE FACE - Excess oil and debris can be removed by washing with Salicylic acid soap. Also available in the market are acne soaps and creams that remove excess oil. In addition, there are soaps and products containing Alpha Hydroxy acids that act as exfoliating agents to promote the shedding off of old cells even as new cells are continuously being regenerated by the skin. The skin renews itself daily and unless old cells are shed off, the build up of old and new cells will clog the pores.

PORE STRIPS - These are adhesives applied to the skin or blackhead-prone areas. They help remove deep-seated dirt but the adhesive might cause irritation to individuals with very sensitive skin.

RETINOID CREAM - Slows oil production in the pores and dissolves blackheads but takes months for improvement to be seen/noted.

SKIN CLEANSERS - Often containing Benzoyl peroxide, they effectively lessen the number of blackheads. Cleansing preparations specifically designed for sensitive skin are available over-the-counter. Those with dry skin should use light/gentle lotion to maintain moisture balance because too much oil in moisturizers can lead to acne and blackheads.

EXFOLIATING PRODUCTS - help shed off old or excess skin cells and also improve the shape of pores. An important thing to keep in mind is that this can cause problems to/damage the skin if exfoliation is overdone.

SKIN PEELING PRODUCTS - Either in cream or liquid preparations, they remove dead skin cells and deep-seated dirt/debris. Do-it-yourself kits are available over-the-counter. 4-5 peeling treatments are needed for effective blackhead removal/prevention.Blackheads plague most everyone and while there is seemingly no treatment to permanently get rid of them, proper skin care through cleansing and exfoliation can lessen their number/occurrence.

One last note, you should not pick at your blackheads, as this will cause scarring of your skin. Remember, too, that it's always best to consult a dermatologist.