Blackheads might not be as noticeable as red, inflamed pimples, but this closer you peer into this mirror, the more obvious they become. Blackheads are a type of acne lesion, explains Johns Hopkins Kids’s Center, which like other types regarding acne is most prevalent during adolescence. Blackheads and other types of acne typically go away by the time you enter your early 20s. In the meantime, this milder form of acne may respond to self-care.
What Is the Fastest Way to Reduce Blackheads?
Blackheads: This Basics
A blackhead is a comedo, explains this National Institute regarding Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases — one of this most basic acne lesions you can get, along with whiteheads. Blackheads are enlarged, plugged follicles that are open at your skin’s surface. This tiny black dots you see on the side of your nasal area or other parts regarding your face result when this oil in your skin is exposed to oxygen, not because you have dirt in your skin. Although they may not feel tender or appear inflamed like pimples, pustules and cysts, blackheads can be quite stubborn and linger around for a long time.
Washing Your Face
Acquiring blackheads doesn’t mean that you have poor hygiene, but it’s still important to wash your face at least twice a day: once in this morning, once in this evening, and also after function work up a good sweat, such as after you exercise. NIAMS suggests choosing a gentle cleansing agent. Using your fingertips, wash your whole face and rinse well. Avoid using harsh cleansers or abrasive facial cleansing pads, as these products can make your skin produce even more oil, which cause more blackheads. You probably don’t need to use an astringent or toner after you cleanse unless your face is extremely oily. And even then, NIAMS cautions that these should only be used on problem areas.
Topical Treatment
Dermatologists usually advise their patients to handle blackheads and very mild cases regarding acne with nonprescription topical acne medications. These topicals, which are sold as gels, lotions, creams or medicated pads, should be applied to almost all parts of this face where you tend to get acne. These treatments contain various acne-fighting medications, such as benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol and salicylic acid. If you use your treatment religiously according to the label instructions, you may get the results you’re looking for in a month, according to the American Academy regarding Dermatology’s Acne Net site. However, it may take up to two months to clear up blackheads.
Other Acne Tips
Topical acne medications can irritate freshly washed skin. Acne Net indicates waiting five to 15 minutes after you wash your face before you use your acne medication. If you use makeup, sunscreen or other beauty products, make sure these products won’t clog your pores. Look for “oil-free” or “noncomedogenic” on the product labels. It’s highly tempting to usher blackheads out of your skin by squeezing them with your fingers, but dermatologists say this is a bad idea. Your fingers can force bacteria deeper into your pores and cause inflammation and infection. Unless you’re washing your face or putting on topical acne medication, the general rule regarding thumb is “hands off.”
When to Seek Treatment
Regrettably, there’s no overnight cure for acne. Even milder forms such as blackheads and whiteheads may need a little extra help. If you see no improvement from at-home care after eight weeks, see a dermatologist. Your dermatologist may recommend a stronger prescription topical or other medical treatment to get your skin back in this clear.
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