Blackheads are caused by a buildup of dead skin cells that impairs the oil flow out of the pores. When oil becomes clogged in the pore, the result is blackheads or "comedones." Blackheads are most common on the nose, forehead and chin. Blackheads can be treated in a few ways, and can also be prevented by maintaining proper cleansing techniques and treatments.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide can be used to treat blackheads on the skin. Benzoyl peroxide has anti-bacterial properties that can help to kill the bacteria trapped inside the hair follicle and diminish the appearance of blackheads. Benzoyl peroxide helps to bring oxygen down into the pores, which can also help to kill the bacteria associated with blackheads or acneic skin. Benzoyl peroxide can be drying to the skin, so using a moisturizer after treatment is advised. Benzoyl peroxide can be purchased over-the-counter or can be prescribed by a licensed medical or skin care professional.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid can be used to help to clear the skin of blackheads. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that acts as a chemical exfoliant to the skin. Salicylic acid helps to slough away the dead skin cells from the pores that can be causing the blackheads to form. Typical over-the-counter salicylic acid medications come in concentrations of .5 percent to 2 percent. Salicylic acid can be drying to the skin, so using a moisturizer following treatment is recommended. Avoid over-exposure to the sun when using any chemical exfoliant. According to an article on drugs.com, before using salicylic acid topically one should consult a physician if he has kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes or poor circulation. You also should get a doctor's OK before using the product on children.
Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid can be used as a treatment for blackheads. Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that is derived from sugar cane. Glycolic acid works on the skin as a chemical exfoliant that breaks the natural "bonds" under the top layer of skin, which deeply exfoliates the skin and aids in blackhead prevention. Glycolic acid is usually seen in concentrations of 5 to 10 percent in over-the-counter or spa treatments. Higher concentrations up to 70 percent can be used under the supervision of a medical doctor. Those using glycolic acid as a treatment should avoid exposure to the sun because the treated skin is new and delicate and could scar and burn easily. According to an article on glycolicacid.com, those with sensitive skin should be careful when choosing glycolic acid products for blackhead treatment. If one is not sure about the possible reactions of glycolic acid with her personal skin type, she should consult a dermatologist.
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