Blackhead Prevention

There are many medications and cleansing techniques that can help you prevent the appearance of blackheads.

• There are a few medical solutions for blackheads. Birth control pills, which regulate hormones and decrease oil production work for some women.
• Retinoids, a type of Vitamin A, may help some people by regulating the shape of their pores to avoid clogging.
• Other individuals with extreme problems may have a drug like Accutane recommended by their dermatologist.
• Taking care to remove excess oil on the skin can be helpful. Nonirritating clay masks and oil absorbing papers can help. Just take care not to over wash your face, which will only create more oil.
• Exfoliating the skin can also decrease the likelihood of clogged pores. Exfoliates with beta hydroxyl acids like salicylic acid are especially helpful avoiding clogged pores.
• Buy cleansers that are meant to help with acne. Non-irritating water-soluble cleansers work best and avoid bar soap, which will only add to problem pore clogging.
• Avoid products that are greasy and thick, which will further clog the pores. And take care with moisturizers, which may only increase oil production.