How do I get rid of my blackheads and whiteheads?

Whiteheads and blackheads are actually the early stages of ACNE and may turn into full blown blemishes and even inflammatory cysts if not treated.

White heads and black heads are collectively known as comedones. Blackheads and white heads are both filled with sebum and dead skin cells, creating the ideal environment for bacteria to grow. The difference between blackheads and whiteheads is the oxidation of melanin (the pigment in skin) which mixes with the trapped sebum in the pores and turns black.  If the pore is open and the melanin exposed the appearance at the surface of the skin is seen as “blackheads”.  If the opening of the pore is closed melanin is not oxidized and the filled pore appears on the surface of the skin as a “white head”.

Acne Vulgaris (Closed Comedo) aka“whiteheads”

• The local inflammatory core is below the surface of the skin
• Pimples forming at the base of a pore can take 2 weeks to reach the surface
• Recommended Treatment: AcnEase Moderate Regimen ( Treats and Prevents) with mild topical disinfectant such as which hazel. Do NOT use harsh topical agents as they will only increase production of sebum.

Acne Vulgaris (Open Comedo) aka“Blackhead”

• Pore is Dilated
• Dark Color is not Dirt but oxidized melanin
• Can Persist for long time
• Skin Treatment can hasten repair
• Standard Treatment : AcnEase Moderate Regimen plus topical Agent like Which Hazel or home made chamomile astringent. Keep skin clean but do not over dry.

Normal and healthy Skin

WHAT DOES NOT HELP to get rid of whiteheads and blackheads

1. As whiteheads and blackheads are annoying and unsightly we need to be mindful to not exacerbate the situation with wrong “skin moves”
2. Popping and squeezing whiteheads and blackheads is NOT recommended, and may lead to infection and acne scars, The only practical way to deal with whiteheads and blackheads is PREVENTION of their formation. Prevention in this case means using an efficient acne treatment that actually helps to regulate sebum secretion and a consistent, effective cleaning method.
3. Beware of products that are highly drying to your skin. We often think that more is better. This is NOT always true and in particular it applies while caring for your skin. Our skin is “smart” so if we use a very drying product such as salicylic acid or alcohol-based cleaners the skin will “think” it needs to protect itself against dryness and will respond by producing even MORE sebum not less.  
4. For the same reason do not over slough your skin and /or exfoliate. Use mild exfoliation agents that are not abrasive to your skin.  Over exfoliation may cause infection if you damage the skin.
5. Do Not leave your skin un-moisturized – dry dead skin flakes clog the pores further causing the formation of comedones.

WHAT DOES HELP to get rid of whiteheads and blackheads

1. Properly clean your face twice daily, with mild cleanser  (Don't scrub your face.  This creates more oil, and may also cause skin damage that allows bacteria to access deeper layers of the skin, which is exactly what you don't want)
2. If you use makeup, use a non-comedogenic product and always wash your face properly at night
3. Use Non Comedogenic, non-oily moisturizer twice daily. (Link to Rejuvel3D)
4. If you notice blackheads or whiteheads becoming inflamed, apply a small amount of topical antibiotic like Neosporin (on a q-tip) twice a day and use DIY chamomile astringent daily.
5. In addition to addressing your acne problem with the right cleansing and skincare , you should PREVENT acne from forming using the right treatment that regulates sebum over secretion – the ONLY way to address the cause of acne.  LINK TO ACNEASE SYSTEM
6. Use this comedone fighting skin mask which helps to dissolve the sebum accumulated in your skin pores. It can be used twice a week. Do not use if you have open cysts.

Comedone Fighting Skin Mask

Ingredients

• 1 egg white
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons high quality extra virgin olive oil (or olive nectar)
• 1 small peeled papaya or 2 thick slices of a large peeled papaya
• ½ teaspoon of baking soda

Instructions

Mix all ingredients in a blender on a low speed until creamy. Massage on a clean face with your fingers in circular motion with moderate (not high) pressure for about 30 seconds. Leave on for twenty minutes, and then rinse with lukewarm water. 

“With a promise of clear skin”

 Dr. Agnes