Eliminating blackheads with oily skin can be a difficult challenge. Blackheads, known in the medical profession as open comedones, are common in people with oily skin. A blackhead is formed when a pore becomes clogged with debris or sebum from the oil gland. Oily skin attracts more debris, making it even more likely that your face will attract debris from the environment, causing more blackheads. Even though it may be tempting to wash the skin often to avoid this problem, care should be taken to not aggravate the skin. This can cause even more oil production, spreading the problem.
While every person has specific products they prefer to use, looking at the label should be the first step when choosing a new product. Look for packages that tell you what the active ingredient is as well as the concentration of the ingredient. In general, products for sensitive skin will have less of the active ingredient than those targeted to oily skin. If you are unsure how you will react to a product, choose the lowest concentration of the active ingredient. Then, after a few weeks, look for a stronger product if your skin shows no adverse reaction.
Salicylic acid is a common ingredient in many oily skin care products designed to target blackheads. Salicylic acid works by loosening the bonds between the top layer of skin cells, causing the rate of turnover to increase. Over time, this can help clear pores and promote overall healthier looking skin. However, salicylic acid cleansers and toners will require several weeks of everyday use before a significant change is seen.
Alpha hydroxy acids are also used as an active ingredient in many oily skin care regimes. These acids work to remove the top layer of skin, exposing newer skin that is blackhead free. For normal skin, an over the counter peel that uses alpha hydroxy acids can be used to accelerate the process. If you have sensitive skin you should avoid this product. Never use an at home peel if it causes pain and always obey the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
For more difficult blackheads, a dermatologist must be consulted. In general, most stubborn blackheads can be treated by following a regimen for oily skin as well as prescription medication. Retin-A and Differin are two common medications that doctors prescribe for the treatment of blackheads. These medications target all of the causes of blackheads, eliminating old comedones and preventing new ones from forming on oily skin. Some people may experience extreme dryness on their oily skin when using this product: an adjustment in the rest of their skin care regimen may be required.
Extraction of blackheads is a controversial subject, especially if you have oily skin. Extractions should only be done by a dermatologist, who can determine if this method will cause scarring or other problems. In general, your dermatologist will be more likely to recommend trying prescription medications or topical methods before trying this method.
