Acne is arguably the most common skin care condition reported to dermatologists. More than 85% of teens and adults are chronically affected by acne pimples and whiteheads on their faces or backs. To make matters worse, many teens are too embarrassed to seek help for the condition. If this is you, you are not alone. Here are some acne definitions and tips to help you cure your acne for good.

Types of Acne

Not all acne pimples are the same! As if it wasn’t bad enough to have acne, doctors went and classified them into two distinct categories: “red bumps” and “blackheads-whiteheads.”

This distinction is important because each type is treated differently. Blackheads and whiteheads, known as comedones, can be more numerous on the face and shoulders than red bumps. Careful, consistent skin hygiene and quality acne products can help reduce whiteheads and blackheads. Therefore, knowing more about what causes comedones and how to treat them is a primary step towards clear skin.

Blackheads

Doctors refer to blackheads as “open comedones,” which are skin follicles that have a wider than normal opening. They are filled with puss and discarded skin cells that have undergone a reaction resulting in the oxidation of melanin. (melanin is also what gives you a tan in the sun) This oxidized puss and melanin slurry appears black.

Whiteheads

Whiteheads are exactly the same as above, but they are not exposed to as much air, thus the slurry does not oxidize and turn black. Rather, it remains white in the follicle. Doctors refer to whiteheads as “closed comedones.”

Treating and Preventing Whiteheads and Blackheads

The key ingredient in treating acne whiteheads you! Consistency is a must. Utilizing appropriate skin care methods aids in the daily, steady improvement of follicle health. Since acne is not caused by consuming greasy or oily foods, changing your diet is not helpful. Whiteheads are also not caused by “people being dirty,” so excessive facial scrubbing will do nothing more than irritate the skin.
Remember, consistent, daily cleaning is the key here.

The best skin care for comedones consists of once-a-day cleansing with a mild soap or facial scrub to aid in the removal of excess sebum and dead skin cells. If you wear makeup, look for water-based makeup labeled as “non-comedogenic” to help avoid follicle clogging that can contribute to more whiteheads.
As you get older, if you still have issues with whiteheads and blackheads, there are many anti aging products available that may assist you as well.

Treating Whiteheads With Acne Products

As you stay consistent in your daily cleansing regimen, remember that acne treatment takes time. Results with some acne products may come sooner for some than others. Following are the most common doctor prescribed acne treatments:

Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is found in many over-the-counter acne treatments and has an antibacterial effect on the skin. It is also believed that it helps reduce the clogging associated with follicles in whiteheads. Benzoyl peroxide is used for mild cases of comedones or to help prevent formation of others.

Tretinoin (Retin-A)
RETIN-A is the most commonly prescribed treatment for whiteheads and blackheads. Tretinoin works to speed skin cell regeneration and healing, thus expelling the slurry from inside the follicle. Retin-A can be harmful to skin if not used properly, so always follow your doctor and pharmacist’s instructions.

Accutane
Accutane is used for the more severe cases of acne and has many side effects. It is quite effective for whiteheads when used properly, but is not usually prescribed for mild cases.

As you can see, treating cases of acne and whiteheads takes time and effort. Just remember that you are not alone. If you can stay on a consistent schedule, you can clear your skin. If your acne becomes worse with age, don’t be afraid to see your doctor or dermatologist.