ACNE & BLACKHEADS

What are blackheads and how do I prevent and treat them?

Blackheads are plugs of hardened sebum (oil) that get trapped in the pores and turn black. They tend to affect those with oilier skin and larger pores, appearing mainly on the forehead, nose and chin.

Preventing blackheads involves cleansing the skin twice a day to remove dirt and excess oil from the pores. Using a facial scrub twice a week will further help to remove build up of dead skin cells that can block the pores.

To treat existing blackheads, you can try removing them yourself but you need to be gentle to avoid scarring. Open up the pores first by having a warm shower or steaming your face over a bowl of hot water. Wrap some tissue around the index fingers and gently apply pressure on either side of the blackhead until the trapped oil pops out. Leave nasty blackheads alone as squeezing too hard can easily damage the skin and run the risk of a scar. Apply an antiseptic cream afterwards to avoid infection and heal the area. Alternatively you can visit a professional grooming salon to perform an extraction. Prevention is better than cure so look after your skin in the first place to stop black heads in their tracks.

Help I've got acne. What should I do?

Severe forms of acne characterised by sore lumps, inflammation and infection should always be referred to a doctor or dermatologist. They may prescribe you with antibiotics or hormone treatment to relieve the problem.

For normal to mild cases of acne, ensure the problem is not aggravated further by cleansing your face morning and night with a gentle face wash. Exfoliate using a facial scrub twice a week, this will help to control excess oil from building up and blocking the pores. Apply an oil free moisturiser and treat the area with one of our problem skin products.

Avoid rubbing or touching the area too often and drink plenty of water.