Treatment of whiteheads and blackheads (also known as "comedones") — takes time. Most treatments take several weeks to months before a noticeable change can be seen. The best thing to do is start, and commit, to a good skincare routine with the right, medicated ingredients, in proper doses according to skin type, sensitivity, and acne severity (such as MDacne).
Best cleansers for comedones: Adequate cleansing of the pores is an essential step for the long-term management of all types of acne. In the case of comedones, the best choice is a medicated cleanser that contains salicylic acid. To avoid over-drying of the skin, the percentage of salicylic acid in the cleanser should be personalized to the user's skin type.
Best topical treatment creams for comedones: The best topical medications to prevent and treat comedones are Salicylic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, and Retinoids.
Salicylic Acid: Salicylic Acid is an FDA cleared anti-acne medical ingredient this is the single best ingredient for the treatment of clogged pores. Salicylic Acid is a “fat-loving” or “lipophilic” beta hydroxyl acid. The ability of Salicylic Acid to penetrate into the oil gland makes it highly effective at binding to and melting the keratin plugs that clog the skin pores. In addition to this "keratolytic" effect, Salicylic Acid provides an antibacterial effect to destroy the P. acnes bacteria while reducing redness, acne inflammation, and swelling.
Benzoyl Peroxide: While Salicylic Acid is the best ingredient for comedones, Benzoyl Peroxide is the single most effective topical anti-acne ingredient. Benzoyl peroxide has an antibacterial effect and may also decrease the chemical reaction that changes the lining of the hair follicle. As with Salicylic Acid, it also has a keratolytic effect, which helps unclog pores and prevent new comedones from forming.
Retinoids: Topical retinoids are commonly prescribed medications for the treatment of both blackheads and whiteheads. Retinoids are derivatives of Vitamin A and work by increasing cell turnover and reducing the "stickiness" of dead skin cells. Retinoids will make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it is very important to limit sun exposure and wear sunscreen during treatment.
Whiteheads and blackheads are types of acne that affect many people. There are several great treatment options available, so there is no need to suffer from this condition in silence.
Start your journey to clear skin today with MDacne!