Blackhead Treatment
If you get blackheads — a type of acne that happens when dead skin cells and oil clog your pores — you have plenty of methods to treat them. There are also ways to prevent new ones from forming.
But remember: Picking, squeezing, and popping blackheads aren’t among your options. That approach could make your situation a lot worse. Try some of these treatments instead.
Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is a popular over-the-counter ingredient in many skin cleansers. It breaks down dead skin cells and extra oil before they can clog your pores.
When you go to the pharmacy, check the ingredient labels carefully. You’ll find products with salicylic acid that range in strength from 0.5% to 5%. The acid can be harsh on some people’s skin.
You might want to put it on every other day, rather than daily, to see how your skin reacts.
As for other acne-fighting ingredients, blackheads don’t contain bacteria, so benzoyl peroxide — a powerful antibacterial against most other forms of acne — may or may not help.
Retinoid creams and lotions
Retinoid creams and lotions, which are made from vitamin A, can unclog your pores. They also help your body make new skin cells.
You can buy some retinoids over the counter in drugstores, but you’ll need a prescription for most. Because retinoids make your skin more sensitive to UV rays, you should use these creams and lotions before bed and out of the sun.
Extraction
“Extraction” might sound scary, but many health professionals know how to remove unsightly blackheads with specialized tools.
You can find home extraction kits in stores. But most medical experts repeat that classic advice: “Don’t try this at home.” A DIY procedure can cause scarring, even if you think you know what you’re doing.
Also Read: 9 Natural Ways To Lighten Your Skin Tone
