So, to control any existing whiteheads — and prevent new ones from appearing — here are some dermatologist-approved treatment options for you to try:
1. No matter what you do, don’t pop them.
More often than not, applying physical stress to a blemish (e.g., squeezing or picking at it) will do more harm than good, Dr. Mariwalla warns: It will likely become irritated and inflamed, and possibly turn into an even larger cyst. Plus, the pressure from pushing or picking causes physical trauma to the delicate skin, which can leave significant scarring and persistent hyperpigmentation (dark spots), she adds.
2. Switch to a non-comedogenic skincare routine.
If an ingredient is comedogenicthis means it is likely to block your pores and cause breakouts. This is why you will want to look for something no-comedogenic to prevent blackheads and pimples in general.
Keep in mind that this labeling system has its drawbacks, and you may still run into issues with products that claim to be noncomedogenic. But a good place to start, according to the dermatologists we spoke to, is to throw out any makeup, cleansers, moisturizers, or serums that contain known pore blockers, like silicones. coconut oil, castor oiland vitamin E.
3. Unclog pores with a reliable chemical exfoliant.
“The key to getting rid of closed comedones is to treat the clogged pores,” says Dr. Mariwalla — and that’s where chemicals come in. exfoliants come into play. These topical treatments work by dissolving the dead skin cells that clog your follicles.
For oily or acne-prone skin, she recommends exfoliants like salicylic acid or glycolic acid to remove any buildup. Another less intense option to consider is lactic acidthat polishes and moisturizes. Whatever you choose, be careful: active ingredients can be harsh on sensitive, dry skin. (If this sounds like you, start with a chemical exfoliant once a week and—if there’s no burning, flaking, or itching—increase to twice a week.)
4. Separate the benzoyl peroxide.
This classic treatment has earned its reputation for fighting pimples, Dr. Samantha Conradfounder of Conrad Petersen Dermatology in Chicago, tells SELF. It works by killing Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria most commonly associated with acne. However, benzoyl peroxide can also dry out or irritate your face if you use it too often or in too high a concentration. For this reason, derms previously said to SELF that anyone with dehydrated or sensitive skin should stick to formulations with a maximum of 2.5%.[These people] you should also use a light, hydrating moisturizer without active ingredients, as it will keep the skin barrier intact will combat irritation and prevent further breakouts,” adds Dr. Mariwalla.
5. Consider introducing an over-the-counter retinoid.
This class of ingredients, which includes retinolretinal and adapalene (Differin) are all vitamin A derivatives that speed up the cell turnover process. Basically, this means your skin cells will shed more quickly, preventing them from clogging your pores.
Like benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids can also be harsh and irritating. Beginners and those with sensitive or dry skin should use them two to three times a week at first, then consider gradually increasing the frequency if all goes well. It’s also important to avoid using other potentially irritating ingredients (like the chemical exfoliants and benzoyl peroxide we raved about above) on the same nights you apply a retinoid: Not only can combining too many drying products make your face break out, but Dr. Conrad says it can also irritate—and worsen—existing closed comedones. Instead, keep things simple with a basic, active-free moisturizer.
Ideally, you should start to notice some improvement within a few weeks or months. “You want to use [these products] enough time for them to really do their job—they’re not going to work in five days,” says Dr. Conrad. If you’re not seeing any progress after two months, or if your skin is getting even worse, it may be time to see a board-certified dermatologist, who can prescribe stronger acne treatments.
Your doctor can also gently extract your blackheads if they feel it’s convenient. We understand that it’s tempting to try this yourself in front of the bathroom mirror, but please leave it to the professionals to avoid scarring or infection. Plus, with all the other dermatologist-approved remedies we’ve recommended above, you now have plenty of better (and much safer) options for clearing things up at home.
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