Dermatologist-Recommended Tips For Preventing Blackheads
When tackling skincare issues, one of the most common problems to face is blackheads. While it's normal to struggle with these tiny pustules, they aren't a welcomed sign for anyone; and to best tackle them, you need to know what a blackhead is and how it forms. Cleveland Clinic explains that blackheads are simply a type of acne that is open and filled up with excess oil and dirt. While it's a common belief that the ones you see are dirt particles in your pores, it's simply how the light reflects the clogged pore. Even though blackheads are also acne, they are vastly different from pimples and should be treated differently.
Because blackheads are a common acne problem that everyone deals with, there are various opinions on how you should prevent and treat them. While there are plenty of quick hacks and tricks you can do to get rid of them, only targeted steps will help you get the clear skin you wish. The best way to get rid of blackheads is by preventing them in the first place.
How to prevent blackheads
The probability of suffering from blackheads will vary from person to person, but typically, those with oily or acne-prone skin are the most susceptible. However, preventing blackheads takes a good amount of diligence. Kiehl's recommends adding oil-absorbing masks into your weekly skincare routine as a way to remove the excess oil that creates this acne type. Besides a mask, add a balancing toner to your routine as well since it can help remove any makeup or oils left behind after cleansing. Toners can also help by balancing your skin to ensure it doesn't become too dry, which can create excess oil in those with oily skin.
Westlake Dermatology adds that exfoliating is one way you can physically remove dirt and excess oils from the pores and prevent them from clogging. So, try adding an exfoliant product into your routine at least one to three times a week to ensure you are constantly ridding that extra dirt and dead skin cells. Depending on your skin type, try not to over-exfoliate, as this can cause other issues. While having a skincare routine filled with preventative and targeted products is ideal, the best way to stop blackheads from constantly appearing is by cleansing your skin day and night. In other words, proper cleansing will prevent dead skin cells, excess sebum, and dirt from clogging your pores and creating acne.
The best way to treat blackheads
Even though we all try our best to prevent blackheads from forming, there are times when they will simply appear. So, besides implementing a preventative routine, it's best to have a treatment plan. Proactiv recommends using products that contain salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide to help treat unwanted blackheads. Salicyclic acid will help clear the pores from oils, dead skin cells, and dirt that may be clogging it. Benzoyl peroxide is an ingredient that will help eliminate the bacteria that cause acne.
Art of Skin Care adds that there are plenty of tools available as quick fixes for blackheads. However, these tools will often only temporarily rid this acne type and can cause even more damage. Objects like blackhead extractors can hurt and scar the skin when not handled by a professional. Squeezing your blackheads can also cause scarring and damage to your skin. So, if you want to remove blackheads, stick to products with properties and ingredients that clear the pores and treat acne.