There’s nothing as unsightly on your face as a large blackhead – with the exception of a large whitehead. Both these blemishes result from clogged pores, but the blackhead occurs because the oil and dead skin cells are exposed to the air, forming the dark plug. A whitehead – the classic “zit” – is not open to the air, and the gunk is beneath the skin. While you’re tempted to pop either type to get rid of them, resist the temptation. That can cause infection and scarring. As with most issues in life, prevention is easier than the cure. Remember the first rule of skincare: Never go to bed with your makeup on.
While it’s impossible to prevent every blackhead from forming, you can keep them to a minimum with due diligence. The first step is washing your face every morning and before you go to bed. If your skin is oily – which is likely the case if blackheads are a problem – use a cleanser containing salicylic acid. These products help clean pores and prevent breakouts. After washing, use a toner to ensure you get rid of every trace of grime or makeup.
Regular exfoliating removes dead skin cells. Use a gentle rather than harsh formulation. The latter might irritate your skin, causing more blackheads and whiteheads to form. A good scrubbing with a washcloth in the shower is another effective exfoliant.
Before putting on makeup or going to bed, apply a product containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to absorb excess skin oil. While skincare items containing these ingredients are available over the counter, if you have a serious case of acne, visit a dermatologist to receive topical prescription medication.
You’ve probably seen the words “non-comedogenic” on moisturizers, sunscreens and face makeup. Those words simply mean the products won’t clog pores. If you’re prone to breakouts, only use non-comedogenic products on your skin. Even better – use items also labeled “hypoallergenic” in case your skin is especially sensitive.
Your hands and fingers contain oils and bacteria that can cause blackheads and other skin eruptions. Train yourself to avoid touching your face.
Lay off the junk food and eat a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables. Start drinking eight glasses of water daily, and it’s a good bet you’ll see a great improvement in your complexion within a couple of weeks. If you follow these tips and are still plagued by blackheads, pay a visit to your dermatologist.