Blackheads!
Blackheads commonly show up on the nose, forehead, and chin, but they can appear anywhere on your body.
Blackheads start as sebum plugs, a collection of oily liquid that helps the skin stay lubricated. However, when they mix with dead skin cells and bacteria, they plug the pores. When they are exposed to air, they oxidize and turn black.
What if you don't remove blackheads?
When blackheads are left untreated, they can lead to inflamed lesions. Blackheads can be reduced with at-home products or in-office treatments with a specialist.
Removing blackheads at home.
Since it may take about a month to see results with an over-the-counter cleaner, if possible, it is advisable to have the blackheads removed by a dermatologist first so you start fresh, then use the cleanser to prevent new ones from joining the party. There are tools on the market for removing blackheads yourself; however, if you don’t know how to use them properly, you risk injuring your skin further.
It is important to NOT use your fingernails to squeeze the blackheads because if you don’t get to the root, it will only cause the blackhead to become inflamed.
Some popular methods used to treat blackheads:
Exfoliation is great for your skin to help prevent a sebum plug and a new blackhead. Be gentle on your facial skin, so avoid abrasive scrubs and try using a course washcloth or exfoliation glove or a Buf-Puf Facial sponge with a cleanser that has beta-hydroxy acid, salicylic acid and/or benzoyl peroxide that decreases the sebum and kill the bacteria.
Blackheads are part of acne. AlumierMD Clarifying Cleanser is a medical-grade cleanser available through Secret Faces that helps in deep-cleansing pores. AlumierMD carries a complete line of products for acne control.
Ingredients for treating blackheads.
- Retinoids regulate cell turnover and prevent the pores from becoming congested, and topical retinoids work on blackheads as well as all types of acne.
- Salicylic acid penetrates into the pores to help dissolve oil, unclog pores and prevent buildup from occurring.
- Benzoyl peroxide kills bacteria and stops the lipid from oxidizing. A cleanser that contains both benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid work very well for blackheads.
- Lactic acid is more of an exfoliator and not as effective as retinoids and salicylic acid, but it does help unclog pores and break up dead skin cells.
- Charcoal helps in drawing out impurities such as dirt and oil in the pores minimizing the appearance of blackheads and acne; however, it doesn’t prevent future blackheads.
Nurse Darlene, the owner of Secret Faces, works with clients with acne conditions and would be happy to book a consultation to discuss all of your options for removing those unwanted guests!
Visit the website or call 905-808-1774
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