Let's wash away troubles: how do anti-blackhead remedies work?

What are blackheads?

Blackheads (open comedones or blackheads) are a plug from a mixture of oxidized sebum, particles of dead skin cells, dust and remnants of decorative cosmetics. They arise against the background of increased secretion of the sebaceous glands, as a result of which the pores expand and are more susceptible to clogging.

According to epidemiological studies, open comedones are a problem that occurs in people of different age categories, and not just in adolescents in puberty. Mostly such rashes are localized in areas of excessive sebum production and the largest number of active sebaceous and sweat glands: forehead, nose, chin (in other words, in the T-zone).

Prevention measures

It’s one thing to fight blackheads with cosmetics, and another thing to prevent their appearance. Let's figure out how to prevent clogged pores.

• Be sure to wash off your makeup. Remember this rule for the rest of your life, explain to your mother and girlfriends, and to men who do not hesitate to apply foundation or powder.

• Remove dead skin cells from the epidermis. This is also a life hack for making your makeup go on smoother.

• Moisturize your skin so that your skin does not have unnecessary reasons to generate sebum.

• Do not squeeze out blackheads or pick them out, for example, with metal sticks. This is the same as with acne - there is a high risk of only harming the skin and causing inflammation. And the instruments must be sterile and processed in a special bath, like in a salon.

The best remedies for blackheads on the nose and face

Properly selected comprehensive basic care will prevent the occurrence of blackheads. Let's look at which cosmetic care products are most effective in the fight against acne.

Gels and foams for washing against blackheads

Regular cleansing in the morning and evening is a key step in the beauty routine for oily and problematic skin. Cleansing should be aimed at removing excess sebum from the face. The formulas of the cleansers also contain sebum-regulating and mattifying components that reduce its production by the sebaceous ducts.

• Effaclar Ultra range micellar water
  will help remove excess sebum, sweat and cosmetics without water: a special combination of micelles, thermal water, glycerin and zinc, which has antibacterial properties, provides oily skin with delicate cleansing and the necessary care.

Choose lightweight, non-comedogenic, alkaline-free gels and foams with a normal or acidic pH. Aggressive cleansing with alcohol-containing solutions or alkaline soap violates the skin's natural protective barrier - the hydrolipid film. As a result of this excessive degreasing, dehydrated skin reacts by increasing the synthesis of sebum in order to moisturize naturally.

• Provide the dermis with gentle cleansing, use gels or foams for washing that do not contain alcohol or aggressive acids. foaming gel for oily, acne-prone skin
  will gently remove excess sebum and deeply cleanse pores . The gel does not dry out sensitive skin and gives it a feeling of cleanliness and freshness for a long time.

Clay masks for blackheads

The formulas of mineral masks based on clay and its derivatives have a pronounced absorbent effect, literally pull out the remaining sebum from the pores, normalize its synthesis, and mattify the skin well. Use these masks 1-2 times a week to deeply cleanse your face.

Effaclar Purifying Mattifying Mask

removes even invisible impurities thanks to two types of cleansing clay and thermal water with the antioxidant selenium, tightens pores, and moisturizes the skin.

Exfoliants

Dead skin particles are part of the sebaceous plug, which is why it is so important to exfoliate the skin in a timely manner. Exfoliants (soft scrubs, peelings, gommages) remove the stratum corneum of cells, preventing clogging of pores. Formulas based on acids and enzymes are also suitable for exfoliating problem skin.

Effaclar Micro-Exfoliating Cleansing Gel

with acids (salicylic and lipohydroxy acid) removes the keratinized layer of cells without scrubbing particles, eliminates impurities, and prevents clogging of pores.

Lotions for blackheads

Another effective remedy for acne are lotions with a sebum-regulating effect, dissolving blackheads and narrowing pores. The lotion is applied to previously cleansed skin and prepares it for basic care, improving the absorption of its beneficial components by cells.

Effaclar pore tightening lotion will help remove residual cleanser and impurities, as well as reduce pore size.

. The ultra-soft formula of the product gently cares for the skin, smoothing and mattifying its surface. The lotion also prepares the epidermis for the application of the cream.

Stripes against blackheads

Strips that pull out sebaceous plugs from pores are a working way to quickly cleanse pores of impurities. Apply a special adhesive strip mask to cleansed skin, leave it for 15-20 minutes and carefully remove it like a band-aid. Then apply a clay mask or wipe the area with lotion for best results and tighten pores.

Creams against acne and blackheads

Corrective care (creams, serums) will help prevent not only the formation of blackheads, but also their transformation into pimples. The sebaceous plug creates a favorable airless environment for the proliferation of acne bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes or Malassezia), which contribute to the development of inflammatory elements. A cream for blackheads, in addition to matting and antimicrobial, should have moisturizing properties that prevent tissue dehydration. Let's take a closer look at effective remedies against blackheads.

Pumpkin mask DermaQuest

A professional pore cleanser - DermaQuest Pumpkin Mask - pulls out and dissolves sebaceous plugs, eliminates oily skin and impurities in just 10 minutes! Performs the function of atraumatic cleaning.

Dense comedones are difficult to remove by squeezing, and lotions and serums are not able to dissolve the dense contents of the pores.

The pumpkin mask has a steaming effect in combination with a comedolytic effect - deep cleansing. Clear skin and healthy complexion immediately after using it!

Composition of Pumpkin Mask

• 50% pumpkin pulp is a source of active ingredients for the skin: natural vitamin A, antioxidants, natural fruit acids and enzymes, pyrogens - substances that warm the skin, open and cleanse pores.
• 3% mandelic acid is a fat-soluble acid that penetrates into pores and cleanses them. Has an antiseptic effect - prevention of inflammation.
• 3% lactic acid – this percentage moisturizes and restores the skin.
• 3% pumpkin enzymes and lactobacilli - restore healthy skin balance - microbiota, prevent bacterial growth.

Properties of pumpkin pulp

Pumpkin pulp is a unique ingredient due to its active substances:

• Natural pyrogens – increase skin microcirculation, warm the skin, open pores. Due to heating, dense black dots come to the surface, making their removal easier. The active substances from the professional mask penetrate the skin better.
• Natural fruit acids - work as a soft peeling, removing layers of dead cells both from the surface of the skin and inside the pores. Helps dissolve and remove comedones.
• Natural enzymes also work to gently exfoliate the skin and promote better penetration of active substances. Restore skin microbiota - the microbial balance necessary for skin health, prevents the development of the inflammatory process and the appearance of acne.
• Natural vitamin A – normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands, reduces the production of sebum. It is an ingredient in the 1st line for removing blackheads on the face. It has an additional effect - lightens pigmentation and activates collagen synthesis.
• Pumpkin pulp also contains B vitamins, vitamin C, niacin and vitamin E.

The question arises: is it possible to use natural pumpkin pulp to cleanse the skin or are there differences? There are differences. DermaQuest pumpkin mask – professional product:

• contains mandelic acid 3% - comedolytic - dissolves fat plugs, has an antiseptic effect;
• lactic acid 3% - delicate exfoliation and moisturizing of the skin;
• professional pH 4.0 – deep penetration of active ingredients from the mask;

How to clear your face of blackheads using a pumpkin mask

1. Cleanse skin of makeup and surface impurities with a cleanser.
2. Apply a pumpkin mask to clean skin for 10 -15 minutes.
3. For thick, sensitive skin, you can use it under a vaporizer or while taking a shower or bath, this will enhance the steaming and cleansing effect.
4. Rinse with plenty of water. If necessary, remove single comedones without applying much pressure.
5. Finish by applying moisturizing and soothing products to the skin.

Clean pores without blackheads, pores become narrower and less noticeable, the skin becomes smooth, even and fresh complexion.

TOP 5 effective remedies for blackheads La Roche-Posay

• The moisturizing matting emulsion Effaclar Mat will provide the skin with a mattifying effect for up to 8 hours and will protect against dehydration for a long time. A product with La Roche-Posay thermal water, glycerin, zinc, perlite and the sebum-regulating component Sebulyse, mattifies the skin, eliminates excess oily shine on the face for 8 hours, tightens pores and moisturizes well.

EFFACLAR MAT

Sebum-regulating emulsion

Read also:  How to behave after cosmetic procedures involving the introduction of hyaluronic acid? Memo for the patient.

Visibly tightens pores and eliminates oily shine.

RUB 1,618 buy

• For spot application, use the corrective local product Effaclar AI, intended for oily problem skin prone to imperfections. Keratolytic components and elements in the product suppress bacterial activity and smooth the epidermis.

EFFACLAR AI

Corrective remedy for blackheads

Effectively affects imperfections.

RUB 1,417 buy

• Lack of skin moisture increases the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Multi-restorative moisturizing soothing product Effaclar H contains: ceramides that restore the stratum corneum and lipids of a new generation, increases the protective functions of the skin, deeply and long-term moisturizes and softens the epidermis.

EFFACLAR H

Multi-restorative agent

Moisturizes oily skin, reduces flaking.

RUB 1,458 buy

• Corrective emulsion for oily skin Effaclar K(+) mattifies for 8 hours, prevents the formation of blackheads, and has an antioxidant effect to prevent sebum oxidation.

EFFACLAR K(+)

Corrective emulsion for blackheads

Moisturizes oily skin, reduces flaking.

RUB 1,303 buy

• Anthelios XL sunscreen mattifying gel-cream, SPF 50/PPD 21 for oily and combination problem skin with patented Airlicium technology reduces shine, tightens pores, the product formula is effective in open sun for up to 6 hours. Non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic. Can be used under makeup.

ANTHELIO XL

Sunscreen for problem skin

Reduces oily shine, tightens pores.

RUB 1,673 buy

Types of gels

Among the wide variety of means, the following should be highlighted:

• Anti-acne gels , the effect of such drugs is aimed at relieving inflammation and increasing skin tone.
• Anti-oily cleansing gels. It is used to normalize the secretion of subcutaneous fat and reduce the degree of contamination of pores.

• To tighten pores . The action of such products is aimed at cleaning and eliminating inflammatory formations, and narrowing enlarged pores. Also, such gels often have a nourishing and moisturizing effect.
• Antiseptics . Gels have been developed directly to eliminate acne. They have a drying and antibacterial effect. Prevents further formation of acne and inflammatory formations.
• Soothing and tonic agents . The action of the gel is aimed at eliminating the inflammatory process and caring for problem skin.
• Combination drugs are designed for a comprehensive effect on the problem area. Very often used to eliminate several problems and activate the natural protective processes of the epidermis.

An incorrectly selected gel very often causes deterioration of the skin and can contribute to the formation of dryness.

What should be the composition of good anti-blackhead products?

• Hydroacids (AHA acids, azelaic acid, LHA acid, salicylic acid, glycolic acid) promote gentle exfoliation of the stratum corneum of cells, breaking down the protein bonds between them, and gently cleanses the skin.
• Hydrofixatives (hyaluronic acid, glycerin, La Roche-Posay Thermal Water) soften and moisturize the skin, prevent transepidermal loss of moisture from cells, and strengthen the hydrolipid barrier.
• Amino acids (sebulis) reduce shine.
• Absorbents (perlite, kaolin) absorb sebum and sweat, giving the skin matte and smoothness.
• Zinc pidolate or zinc mattifies the skin and has antibacterial properties.
• Niacinamide soothes skin.
• Prokerad prevents the formation of stagnant spots.
• Mannose extract normalizes the skin microbiome and restores its protective properties.
• Antioxidants (vitamin C, E, carnosine) prevent oxidative stress by helping cells fight the negative effects of free radicals.
• Piroctone olamine has an anti-inflammatory effect and cleanses pores.
• Oils (squalane, shea butter, shea butter) restore the hydrolipidic barrier, nourish, soften the skin, and prevent the development of hyperkeratosis.

Reviews

The appearance of acne can occur for various reasons, however, any inflammatory process on the epidermis requires treatment. Timely use of special anti-acne medications can not only hide the deficiency, but also completely cure the problem.

When choosing a gel for washing against acne, the individual characteristics of the epidermis are of great importance. Before starting use, it is recommended to study the instructions for use in detail and consult with a specialist.

Dermatologist of the highest category and author of the website dermgid.com. For more than 15 years I have been helping people suffering from skin diseases of various origins.

Salon treatments for blackheads

If the imperfections are non-inflammatory and there is no recurrence of acne, you can get rid of blackheads using popular cosmetic procedures. Properly selected corrective home care will prolong the temporary results of aesthetic manipulations.

Types of salon procedures for removing blackheads:

• Ultrasonic, vacuum or mechanical (manual) cleaning of pores;
• Dermabrasion (mechanical resurfacing) for deep exfoliation of the skin;
• Cryotherapy (cryopeeling), acid peeling (based on glycolic, lactic, azelaic, salicylic acids or retinoids) for intensive renewal of the stratum corneum of the skin;
• Laser resurfacing is a radical and most traumatic way to get rid of acne, as well as post-acne marks, by exposing the epidermis to a laser beam.
• Disincrustation cleanses pores with a special solution that delivers electric current to the deep layers of the skin.

Rating of the best gels

Based on user surveys, a list of popular anti-acne wash gels should be highlighted:

• NIVEA.
• Garnier "against blackheads and pimples."
• Purete Thermale from Vichy.
• "Daily care" from Clearasil.
• Pure Zone from L'Oreal.
• Clean line.
• Himalaya Herbals.
• Green Pharmacy.

When selecting products, there may be individual preferences of users, which may differ depending on the type of epidermis.

Folk remedies for blackheads: will they help?

Home remedies for blackheads are a common way to cleanse the skin of sebaceous plugs at home.

The following are often used in cleansing masks:

• tea tree, which relieves inflammation and cleanses pores;
• clay (white, blue, black) as an absorbent of sebum and other impurities that clog pores;
• egg white, which has an anti-inflammatory effect;
• baking soda cleanses pores, relieves and dries inflammation.

These are not all the available components that are used to prepare cleaning products at home. But each of them in their pure form has a number of contraindications, as they can cause an allergic reaction and provoke new foci of inflammation. Experts in the field of dermatology do not recommend resorting to such a prescription, replacing them with professional care with clinically proven effectiveness.

Cosmedix Clear Deep Cleansing Mask

Cosmedix Clear Deep Cleansing Mask How often to use:
2-3 times a week.

Not long ago, a new brand Cosmedix appeared on the Russian beauty market, which also has an interesting product in its assortment - a mask with kaolin, niacinamide, sulfur and tea tree oil. It is this composition that reduces the number of existing acne and post-inflammatory pigmentation, and also prevents the appearance of new inflammatory elements. Plus Clear Deep Cleansing Mask evens out skin tone and texture, making it matte.

Causes of blackheads on the face and preventive measures

• Insufficient cleansing of facial skin
  is one of the key causes of imperfections. Twice a day, wash your face with foams or gels for oily problem skin or wipe your face with micellar water, which delicately removes remaining impurities from the skin and prevents clogging of pores.
• Excessive exfoliation and squeaky cleansing
  is the other side of the coin. Aggressive formulas of alkali- or alcohol-based cleansers disrupt the hydrolipidic mantle of the skin and provoke dehydration. Choose gentle formulas with a normal or acidic pH.
• Insufficient hydration
  disrupts the hydrobalance of cells and triggers increased sebum synthesis. Dryness also occurs as a result of over-cleaning, excess matting and exposure to negative external factors. Use corrective care with hydrofixatives at the base of the formula to maintain the water balance of cells.
• Incorrect care
  also negatively affects the condition of the epidermis. For example, greasy, oily textures in dry skin products clog pores and can cause breakouts. Choose non-comedogenic formulas for oily, problem and combination skin.
• An unbalanced diet
  is another cause of imperfections in oily problem skin. Fatty, sweet, salty, spicy foods increase the activity of the sebaceous and sweat glands. Switch to a healthy diet enriched with fiber, vitamins and minerals that will help normalize your skin from the inside out.

Soft gel for washing Dr. Core by Faberlic

Soft gel for washing Dr. Core by Faberlic How often to use:
daily.

Dr. Core is the first cosmetic line in the Faberlic assortment, created according to the principles of corneotherapy (the so-called science of healthy skin). The products in this range imitate the natural mechanisms that occur in the skin, helping it cope with any task perfectly and without causing any harm. For example, soft cleansing gel Dr. Core deeply cleanses the skin and helps it get rid of acne, including those caused by constant wearing of masks and respirators. And at the same time, the gel is responsible for moisturizing and restoring elasticity to the skin.

Text: Svetlana Antonova