Review of the most effective remedies for blackheads and pimples

Causes of blackheads

Acne is a problem that people with oily and combination skin types are most familiar with. They are characterized by active sebum secretion, wide pores and hyperkeratosis - pathological thickening of the stratum corneum of the epidermis. With normal and dry skin, acne forms less frequently.

Blackheads most often appear on oily and problematic facial skin. © iStock

Hormones

The male hormone testosterone is responsible for the production of sebum in the body, so men's skin is usually oilier than women's: the higher the testosterone level, the more secretion the sebaceous glands secrete.

The cause of teenage skin problems is unstable hormonal levels. The same reason leads to the appearance of acne in women of mature age - a hormonal surge occurs during pregnancy and at the onset of menopause.

Nutrition

According to some reports, eating large amounts of fast carbohydrates can affect the size and functioning of the sebaceous glands, and therefore speed up the production of sebum. There is not enough direct evidence yet, but many people report improvement in their skin when following a low-carbohydrate diet and avoiding sugar.

Insufficient cleansing or exfoliation

Contrary to prejudices, foundation cannot spoil the skin, but illiterate cleansing can. A thick layer of foundation cannot be washed off with one gesture, so it makes sense to distinguish between makeup removal and direct skin cleansing.

Milk or cleansing oil, as well as micellar water, are ideal as the first stage of evening cleansing

Then, to remove excess makeup and milk or oil from the surface of the skin, wash your face with water and a cleansing product, such as a foaming gel.

Among the reasons for the appearance of blackheads is the lack of proper cleansing. © iStock

Causes of clogged pores

Blackheads on the face are dense nodules inside the pores. Particles of subcutaneous sebum mixed with dead cells and dust particles, and under the influence of oxygen the formations darkened. Comedones are usually concentrated in places where the epidermis is fattier - the chin, forehead, wings of the nose, on the rim of the lips, inside the ear.

It would seem that there is nothing wrong, only the appearance deteriorates, but this is not entirely true. Comedones interfere with normal skin respiration and absorption of nutritional components from cosmetic products. In addition, in extremely rare cases, blackheads can become inflamed.

And it provokes the formation of comedones:

• Insufficient cleansing of the skin, lack of proper care;
• Wax or fat based cosmetics;
• Cosmetics that do not match the type of epidermis or are incorrectly selected;
• Increased irritability of the epidermis, frequent diaper rash, profuse sweating in the heat;
• Hormonal disruptions that provoke active work of the sebaceous glands, as a result, excess subcutaneous fat;
• Favorable climate for the formation of comedones (high air humidity, dust, air pollution);
• Constant nervous tension, stressful situations;
• Poor nutrition (meaning poor in vitamins, nutritional components, minerals);
• A peculiar reaction to the drug being taken.

To get rid of blackheads, it is not necessary to visit beauty salons; just consulting a cosmetologist and following his recommendations is enough. The main emphasis in solving the problem is on deep cleansing.

Methods for getting rid of blackheads

Do these procedures regularly if you need quick and obvious results. And competent daily care will help maintain the effect.

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cleansing masks absorb sebum, mattify oily skin areas and prevent inflammation. Apply the mask after a steam bath for better cleansing.

Exfoliants - both mechanical (scrubs) and chemical (peels), remove the stratum corneum of the epidermis, facilitating the release of sebum, and help reduce sebaceous plugs. Some scrubs have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.

Mechanical cleansing is an effective way to quickly get rid of acne and comedones.
It is better to perform this procedure by a specialist. The downside is that the recovery period after cleaning can take up to a week.

Home Recipes

Peeling at home for blackheads can save you money. Natural ingredients in the masks have a minimum of contraindications and side effects.

For independent use, superficial peels are recommended that do not injure the deeper layers of the skin.

To enhance the effectiveness of home remedies, you need to steam your face before the procedure.

Apply peeling for black rashes with a brush, performing massage movements.

Other recipes for effective peelings against blackheads:

1. Wipe the problem area (forehead, nose) with a cotton pad coated with hydrogen peroxide and finely ground salt for 10 minutes. Then you need to wash your face with hot water and rinse your face with cold water.
2. Fat kefir or sour cream with salt.
3. Masks based on white and blue clay.
4. Dissolve milk thistle seeds or flour in water, leave and stir until a paste-like mass is obtained.

After peeling the spots, wash your face with cool water and apply a soothing cream.

Before using homemade recipes for black comedones, you need to do a sensitivity test to the components: apply a small amount of the substance to the elbow area, monitor the reaction.

Composition of cosmetics against blackheads

Products aimed at combating blackheads usually contain proven “fighters”.

Clay is an excellent absorbent and effectively removes sebum from the skin surface. Clay masks prevent the occurrence of comedones and acne. Read more about clay masks here.

AHA and BHA acids (salicylic, lactic, glycolic) are also among the top three ingredients against blackheads: they dissolve intercellular connections and accelerate the removal of dead cells from the epidermis that block the release of sebum.

Zinc kills Propionibacterium acnes bacteria, the causative agents of acne and acne.

Sulfur reduces sebum secretion.

Green tea extract has pronounced antiseptic properties.

How can a pharmacy help?

An effective remedy for blackheads can be found at the pharmacy kiosk for a reasonable amount. The main advantage of such drugs is that, in addition to removing defects, you can stabilize the functioning of the sebaceous glands, reduce the production of subcutaneous fat - this will significantly reduce the likelihood of further occurrence of the problem.

Which ointment for blackheads should you choose? We offer some options for a budget-friendly and at the same time effective solution to the problem:

• Differin is a popular ointment for clogged pores and acne. It will cost approximately 750 rubles. The active ingredient is a synthetic version of retinoic acid. The drug perfectly softens problematic nodules, relieves inflammation and helps restore the skin. It is recommended to apply Differin for blackheads once a day. Please note that this is an active drug and is used to treat acne. Before use, be sure to consult with your doctor about the dosage so as not to get peeling and itching instead of comedones.
• Retinoic ointment - the effectiveness of the drug has been proven by positive reviews from patients. One of the forms of retinol (vitamin A) is used as an active ingredient. The drug reduces the activity of the sebaceous glands, relieves inflammation and improves the immune system of cells. The course of treatment is up to 3 months and involves twice daily application.

Retinoic ointment comes in different dosages of the active ingredient so that you can choose the appropriate option based on your skin type. For increased oiliness of the epidermis, it is recommended to use an ointment with a dosage of 0.1%; for dry or sensitive skin - 0.05%. For one tube of the drug you will pay 250 rubles. Be careful, excess vitamin A causes itching and redness, and pregnant and nursing mothers should avoid such treatment.

• Zinc ointment is a universal remedy against skin problems. Used to treat dermatitis and sunburn at any age. It will also be useful in the fight against blackheads. Zinc ointment acts simultaneously in two directions: zinc kills bacteria and dries out the epidermis, and petroleum jelly softens tissues and the effect of zinc on cells. As a result of regular use, the skin becomes clean and the pores become smaller. In terms of costs, purchasing a medicine will cost 50 rubles.
• Ichthyol ointment - refers to budgetary remedies against acne, acne and comedones. The drug increases blood circulation, has an anti-inflammatory effect and is suitable for all skin types. It is applied with glycerin, about the properties of which you can read here. To do this, mix 1 part glycerin with 4 parts ichthyol ointment. Distribute the prepared mixture onto problem areas. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent it from sleeping, secure with a bandage. Do the procedure before bed so that the product takes effect overnight. After just 2 procedures, the skin will be clean, without blemishes and black inclusions.

Ichthyol ointment is inexpensive (100–120 rubles), but can be used to treat acne, acne, and boils. The product has contraindications. The ointment should not be used by pregnant women, nursing mothers, children under 12 years of age, with cancer or an individual allergic reaction to its constituent components.

Pharmacy ointments are a good method for solving skin defects. They act purposefully and are applied only to problem areas.

Before using any medication, carefully read the instructions for use, contraindications and dosage. Be sure to consult a dermatologist or cosmetologist to avoid the opposite effect of treatment.

The best cosmetics against blackheads

If blackheads cause inconvenience, look for the cosmetic products listed below on store shelves - the best according to the ratings of the Skin.ru editors.

Blackheads can appear both at a young and adult age. © iStock

Moisturizing

To protect itself, squeaky clean, but not moisturized skin begins to secrete even more sebum. So don't neglect hydration. If your pores are prone to clogged areas, choose lightweight gels or oil-free creams.

Moisturizing gel-cream for the face without oils, Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream, Kiehl's

A complex of vitamin E, antarcticine and desert plant extracts protects epidermal cells from free radicals. Glycerin, due to its inherent hygroscopicity, attracts water and retains it in skin cells, helping to maintain an optimal level of hydration.

Botanical cream “Green tea”, mattifying, for combination and oily skin, Garnier

Green tea extract in the formula is known for its antioxidant effect. The product controls shine while mattifying and moisturizing the skin.

Double action corrective care Normaderm Phytosolution, Vichy

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It works on two fronts: it helps reduce pores and mattifies the skin, while simultaneously moisturizing and strengthening its protective barrier. Contains: salicylic acid in a concentration of 2% (tightens pores), kaolin (reduces oily shine), vitamin C (antioxidant), hyaluronic acid (promotes hydration) and, finally, a derivative of the probiotic Bifidus strengthens the protective functions of the skin.

Cleansing

Skin care begins with proper cleansing. Remove makeup, especially heavy makeup, using a special product, and then wash with water using a non-aggressive cleanser. To deeply cleanse your skin, use face masks.

Cleansing gel with mattifying effect Purefect Skin, Biotherm

The washing gel turns into a delicate foam upon contact with water, which is easily distributed over the face, perfectly cleanses pores and mattifies the skin.

Exfoliating

Exfoliation is a necessary stage of care, especially for hyperkeratosis. Many people skip this procedure, and in vain: keratinized skin scales contribute to clogging of pores and the proliferation of propionic acne bacteria in the mouths of hair follicles, the primary source of inflammatory processes.

Exfoliance Clarté exfoliating gel, Lancôme

The delicate product removes dead particles of the epidermis due to microgranules, as well as papaya and pineapple extracts, without causing discomfort to the skin. Suitable for frequent use.

Facial scrub “Pure Zone, Absolute purity 7-in-1”, L'Oréal Paris

Aimed at narrowing pores and improving complexion, combining the properties of mechanical peeling and salicylic acid, perfectly exfoliates the skin.

Sugar facial scrub, cleansing, reducing blackheads, L'Oréal Paris

The formula with a warming effect, sugar granules, kiwi seeds and lemongrass oil intensively cleanses the skin of impurities, sebum, dead cells - that is, everything that can trigger the formation of blackheads. The scrub can also be used on such a delicate area as the skin of the lips.

Night peeling Idealia, Vichy

An exfoliating complex (glycolic acid + Hepes 5%) accelerates the renewal process of epidermal cells, improves skin texture, reduces the size and number of age spots and post-acne marks. The special texture of the lotion without exfoliating granules does not damage the skin.

Face masks

Intensive cleansing masks are a must-have item in the program in the fight against blackheads.

Mineral pore-cleansing mask with clay, Vichy

The hypoallergenic formula with two types of clay (kaolin and bentonite) effectively cleanses pores, drawing out impurities from them. Emollient ingredients allantoin and aloe vera prevent skin from drying out, while thermal spring water saturates it with minerals.

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Steaming face mask “Clean Skin” with zinc against blackheads and oily shine, Garnier

In just three minutes, it helps open pores and intensively cleanses them, including thanks to the thermal effect, as well as clay and zinc in the composition.

Rare Earth Pore Cleansing Masque, Kiehl's

Amazonian clay and bentonite fight bacteria and excess sebum in the pores, aloe vera has a softening effect, preventing absorbents from disrupting the hydrolipid mantle of the skin.

Black fabric mask “Cleansing charcoal. Black algae, Garnier

Moisturizing, reducing enlarged pores - all these effects are provided by the mask; the formula includes not only hydrants traditional for fabric masks, but also an exfoliating component (LHA acid) plus an absorbent (charcoal).

Cosmetic products against comedones

Cosmetic companies did not waste time and created their own versions of products to combat pore pollution. The effect of cosmetic products is partially reduced, but the treatment takes place without a high risk of side effects, with a minimum of contraindications.

• Cream "Baziron" (made in France) is considered the best cosmetic product for gentle and effective removal of sebaceous plugs. French cream for blackheads does not leave a trace on the face. It fights bacteria and normalizes fat secretion. After a course of using the drug, the skin begins to breathe actively, and a healthy, even tone appears. You can purchase Basiron in a specialty store or order it online.
• Cream “Propeller” (made in Russia) – degreases the surface of the face, helps get rid of clogged pores gently and effectively. The product contains natural plant extracts, a mixture of essential oils and acids. Apply the anti-blackhead gel to the skin before washing, massage for a few minutes, and rinse with water. Repeat the procedure morning and evening. A propeller for blackheads will cost 100 rubles.

• Cream for blackheads on the face “Klenzit” (made in India) is a real medicine for the skin based on a retinoid. Used against open and closed forms of comedones, for gentle cleansing of the integument, to cure acne. Use face cream strictly for 3 months, even if the problem is cured ahead of schedule. Before applying the product, clean your face with milk and dry. Then precisely distribute the product onto the problem nodules and massage for 1–2 minutes.

Use the medicine every other day for the first 2 weeks, and then daily.

Ointment for blackheads based on retinol (vitamin A) and its derivatives is not recommended for use on hot, sunny days. Retinoids increase the skin's sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation, and therefore provoke the appearance of age spots when exposed to the sun.

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Prevention measures

How to prolong the results after cosmetic cleansing and ensure the prevention of imperfections?

The basis for preventing blackheads is thorough cleansing. © iStock

Don't forget about makeup remover : no matter how tired you are, washing your face before going to bed is a must. Contrary to myths, soap is a bad helper in this matter. We suggest switching to a two-step system, popular in Asia: first we cleanse the skin of cosmetic products with hydrophilic oil or micellar water, then we wash with water using a cleansing gel or foam.

Moisturizing is the key to beautiful skin. Without regular hydration, the skin not only ages faster, but also produces more oil, which we work hard to wash off, thereby causing even more damage to the epidermis.

If possible, avoid cleaning your pores yourself . By removing comedones with your own hands at home, you risk getting negative consequences in the form of rosacea or pimples. But if you really want to, use special cleansing strips that are sold at any pharmacy.

Effective means

There are different ways to cleanse your face from dots.

Beauty salon procedures that help free pores from black sebaceous plugs:

1. Hardware cosmetology - cleaning is carried out with vacuum or ultrasound. The method helps activate skin renewal, accelerate collagen production, improve cellular metabolism, and normalize blood microcirculation. As a result, black comedones and dots disappear, the surface of the face becomes soft and tender. Before the procedure, a gel is applied to help expand the pores to effectively remove pathological contents.
2. Chemical peeling using acids. Effective in combating clogged sebaceous glands. Eliminates dead particles of the epidermis, dissolves traffic jams, and removes sebum from pores.

Cosmetics for blackheads - gels, masks, patches - are used as independent products or as an addition to cosmetic procedures. At home, it is better to warm up the skin and steam it for maximum cleansing effect.

Gels and foams for washing

There are many gels available over the counter without a prescription to get rid of blackheads on the face. Before use, you need to familiarize yourself with the characteristics, composition, and expiration date. The information is indicated on the drug packaging.

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A film is used with the gel for cleansing. It cannot be considered a remedy. A mask for getting rid of blackheads and spots removes the visible problem, but does not eliminate the cause of its appearance. After some time, comedones will appear again.

To eliminate acne, complex treatment is used, including restoring hormonal levels and taking pharmaceutical medications.

Before using any brand of gel, it is better to talk to your doctor about the advisability of using the composition.

It is necessary to use pharmaceutical preparations to eliminate black pimples and spots on the face, strictly following the instructions.

If after application there are unpleasant sensations, burning, pimples, you need to wash off the layer with warm water and choose a different composition.

Lotions and tonics

In addition to the gel, cosmetologists recommend using lotions and tonics for black acne and spots:

1. For night peeling - Idéalia, Vichy. Exfoliates dead skin particles, accelerates cell regeneration, reduces acne marks and age spots. The texture of the lotion does not contain exfoliating granules, the structure of the skin is not disturbed.
2. Lotion Propeller. Reduces sebum secretion, cleanses pores of impurities, removes oily shine, tones, nourishes, and relieves inflammation. Apply 2 times: in the morning after washing, in the evening before bed. To enhance the effect, it is recommended to additionally use a gel for washing against blackheads from the same line.
3. Cleansing toner Clear skin. Suitable for oily types, dries, mattifies, tones, removes black comedones. Use daily: morning, evening.

Tonics and lotions contain acids that actively combat gland blockage. Regular use of dot gels will return the skin to a healthy appearance and a pleasant pink glow.

Decorative cosmetics

To eliminate acne, wash gels, lotions, tonics, and charcoal-based film masks are used. The effect is noticeable after the course.

For quick disguise use decorative cosmetics:

1. Concealer. The product hides black spots and dots. If the composition contains salicylic acid, the formation of pore clogging is simultaneously prevented.
2. Powder. Masks acne, removes greasy shine. You can choose cream-powder, which combines a loose substance with a foundation.

It is better to use mineral-based cosmetics, the components of which do not affect the skin. For application use a soft, clean brush.

Before going to bed, you need to wash off your makeup, use a gel or tonic against blackheads and to moisturize.

Salon treatments

The most effective procedure against comedones in the nose area is facial cleansing by a cosmetologist. It can be performed manually or using ultrasonic and vacuum technologies. The last method is the most effective, but at the same time the most traumatic for the skin.

After manual cleaning, severe redness of the skin is observed, which can last up to 7 days. Cosmetics (for example, a mask) with a calming effect, which is provided by panthenol, allantoin, aloe vera and chamomile extracts, help to shorten the rehabilitation period.

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Comparison of models