Acne Skin Care

Comedones, more commonaly known as blackheads, are one of the most common causes of acne, particularly for those who have oily skin. It is caused by excess oils that have accumulated in the sebaceous gland’s duct. Generally, when acne vulgaris begins, its starts as blackheads and whiteheads. The difference between them is that a blackhead, or open comedo, is open at the surface of the skin. A whitehead, or closed comedo, is hardening of the oil in a closed environment under the surface of the skin. Both of them contribute to the formation of pimples and acne breakouts.

At one time, it was believed that comedones formed because of too little cleansing, but it has been shown that they are created by a combination of oil, dust and dead skin cells within the pore itself. The “black” appearance of a comedone is caused by oxidization acting on the oil, melanin (color pigments in the skin cells) and keratin in dead skin cells clogging the pores which creates their dark appearance.

Treating Blackheads

The best way to prevent blackheads is to alleviate their cause: excess oil and dead skin cells. Use gentle cleansing products that are designed to treat comedones. Avoid using products that contain alcohol, mineral oil or petroleum-based additives as these are harsh and actually may make the problem worse instead of better. Stripping the skin of its natural acid mantle (emollients and oils produced by the skin) actually stimulates the glands to produce more oil, perpetuating an acne cycle. Products containing natural oils and ingredients are less likely to block pores, and usually are more gentle to the skin.

A gentle exfoliant to remove dead skin cells may be used on a daily basis. However, most dermatologists recommend the use of these products twice per week, to avoid irritating the skin. All exfoliants should be used in a gentle manner, don’t scrub or use hard rubbing movements when using them.

Avoid hard squeezing to remove the blackheads. This may cause further irritation resulting in pimples since it may force part of the blockage deeper into the skin. It is best to employ gentle methods of removal, such as blackhead removal strips and products designed to dry them up. Although is a longer method to take than quickly squeezing them out, it is better for the skin in the long run because it avoids scarring.

Occasionally,diet plays a role in acne breakouts although it is generally believed to affect adults more than adolescents. There may be foods that influence acne due to allergies or individual sensitivity to certain food groups. Most physicians maintain that proper diet helps decrease oil production, provides moisture to the skin, and helps facilitate the growth of new and healthy skin cells.

As previously mentioned, blackheads are usually prevalent in oily skin types, but they can occur in dry, normal and combination skin, although with less frequency. Skin care products should be chosen carefully because they are esssential to preventing and healing acne and blackhead breakouts. A healthy diet and lots of water are also key to maintaining a fresh, clean complexion. There are many over-the-counter products for treating blackheads as well as prescription medications available from your dermatologist. If blackheads occur, eliminate them gently using mild cleansing products and topical creams designed to dry them up.

Abhishek Agarwal
http://www.articlesbase.com/acne-articles/blackhead-treatment-how-to-get-rid-of-blackheads-permanently-708968.html

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