Blackheads

Salicylic acid is a commonly used dermatological product, which is very effective in dissolving blackheads. It acts by reducing swelling around blackheads and unclogging the poor thereby causing shrinkage of blackheads. This compound is used in the concentration of 0.05% to 5% for the treatment of acne problems. A lot of over the counter products like cleansers, astringents and lotions constitute salicylic acid as one of its primary ingredients. However, for better effect, it is best to opt for leave on products like lotions and astringents rather then using it as a face cleanser.

Topical salicylic acid is also available in the form of wiping pads or wipes to clean the skin and as patches to be applied on the skin.

Benzoyl peroxide has comedolytic activity, means it has the ability to break down comedones. This product does wonders for blackheads. It breaks the dark plug present over hair follicles so that it can be removed easily and effectively. Moreover, benzoyl peroxide increases turnover of epithelial cells, which results in peeling of skin and further helps in blackhead removal. Benzoyl peroxides are used in the concentration of 2.5% to 10% for topical application.

This is another agent that can give you a clear and glowing skin by removing all the dark bumps on your face especially on nose area. It is used in the concentration of 2% in the form of topical applications.

Just clean your skin thoroughly and apply a thin layer of the product over the blackhead prone area one to three times per day. If you feel excess dryness reduce the frequency of application. If you're going outside, make sure to apply sunscreen to prevent sun damage, resorcinol can make your skin sensitive and prone to sunburn.

Topical application of sulfur can provide you a blackhead free skin in no time. It is used in the concentration of 3 to 8% for topical use. However, you should never apply sulfur on broken skin and large areas of skin and avoid its contact with eyes.

Right time to use sulfur is after cleaning and toning of face. Apply a thin layer of sulfur on the affected area, leave it for 10 minutes and rinse your face afterwards.

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) is one of the most commonly used anti-acne medications. They are naturally derived from plants and form an important part of various skin care products including creams, chemical peels and lotions. It mainly acts as a chemical peeling agent that exfoliates the skin and effectively removes dead layers thus clearing blackheads. It is also effective in improving skin tone and reducing wrinkles. For best results it is used topically in a concentration of 4%.

Azelaic acid helps separating and removing dead skin cells, which are one of the most common causes of blackheads. It is especially useful in conditions where benzoyl peroxide or retinoids are not able to work or cause side effects like burning or irritating the skin.

It also has antibacterial properties. So if your blackhead or acne is infected by bacterial infections, it will aid in getting rid of it.

Another big advantage of using azelaic acid is, it won't make your skin sensitive to sunlight. While using this ointment you don't need to avoid exposure from sun. Isn't it a relief?

Azelaic acid is available in the form of cream or lotion, you should apply it twice daily to banish the blackheads. If your skin is extremely sensitive, reduce the application to once a day in order to avoid skin irritation.

Tips: you should always use one type of over the counter medication at one time. Never use multiple products thinking it might speed up the process as it will just worsen your condition rather than resolving it.

This is a small pen like extractor with a loop on one end. The loop engages the tiny dark spot and pops the blackheads out on application of pressure. They help in removing blackheads as well as whiteheads.

To make the process more efficient and convenient, you should take mild steam on your face. Taking steam helps in softening facial skin and opening skin pores. Along with this, it aids in easy removal of blackheads with considerably lower pressure. You can take professional help to remove blackheads with help of comedone extractor or can do it by yourself at home.

Chemical peeling is quickly becoming one of the most popular methods for getting rid of skin scars, wrinkles and acne. This is done by using chemical peeling agents such as salicylic acid, pyruvic acid, and lactic acid and they work by removing the old layer of skin completely, allowing new and fresh skin to surface out. A chemical peel also helps improve skin thickness and reduces pigmentation.

Several different types of chemical peels are available in the market, depending on the skin type and condition to be treated.

However, it is best not to use these peels at home.

Photodynamic therapy uses light radiation in an attempt to remove blackheads and unclog pores. This procedure comprises application of some photosensitizers solutions on the affected areas of skin. These solutions then lead to production of a substance known as porphyrin by the abnormal skin cells, which is then easily recognised and treated. This is a highly effective and safe treatment for blackhead removal. Studies have shown photodynamic therapy to be effective in treating mild to moderate acne where topical and oral treatments had previously been ineffective. However it is a bit costly. The results are not permanent either.

Opting for home remedies to get rid of blackheads might take slightly longer to see noticeable results but they are definitely effective. Moreover, home remedies don't have any harmful effects on skin.

Few effective home remedies to get rid of blackheads are as follows

• Honey and cinnamon mask
• Egg white and honey mask
• Essential oils
• Neem leaves and boiled water
• Aloevera
• Oatmeal scrub

Make sure you go through these once to check what potential these kitchen ingredients hold to amaze you as well as your blackheads by bugging them away.