Top picks for nixing blackheads

I'm 13 and I have fairly normal skin, but lately I have been getting a lot of blackheads around my nose and chin. I've tried squeezing them but I know that can lead to scarring and can even worsen the black head. Do you have any tips or products that can help remove them?

 

You are so not alone with the blackheads. So many girls get them. The best thing you can do is to resist the urge to squeeze them. Instead, focus on using products that a) keep your skin clean and moist and b) fight the blackheads for you.

 

Cleanser

 

I go to a dermatologist and one of the first things she said to me was in order to combat acne and blackheads, it’s super important to keep your skin clean. Wash your skin with a gentle cleanser morning and night before applying acne creams and make-up. Brands like Cetaphil are available at all drug stores and work for all ages and skin types.

 

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, $12, drugstore.com

 

Moisturize

People often overlook this, but it’s important to keep a moisturizer in your skincare routine. The biggest reason? A lot of topical treatments for blackheads and acne contain benzoyl peroxide, a drying agent. Using a daily moisturizer morning and night keeps skin from getting too dry — so no flakes! Many moisturizers contain SPF too, which is essential when it comes to keeping your face protected against the sun.

 

Aveeno Ultra-Calming Daily Moisturizer SPF 15, $15, target.com

 

Blackhead Topical Treatment

When it comes to topical creams available without a prescription, choices are more limited. Opt for a cream or medication that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Both are commonly used in the treatment of mild acne and blackheads. Are your blackheads more severe? Stronger medications are available, but they require a prescription. If you’ve tried over-the-counter topicals and they haven’t worked, set up an appointment with a dermatologist. She can give you an individualized skin treatment plan and prescribe the right medications to keep blackheads under control.

 

Biore Pore Perfect Triple Action Astringent, $8, amazon.com

POSTED IN ,

by Alyssa Bailey | 2/1/2016
share