Ichthyol ointment
Ichthyol ointment is a very popular remedy against various skin inflammations.
It has a good effect on the epidermis, has an anti-inflammatory effect, and improves blood circulation. According to dermatologists, this budget drug, which can be bought at any pharmacy, is suitable for. Before starting treatment with ichthyol ointment, doctors advise preparing the body: abstain from alcohol, coffee and medications containing codeine for some time.
Ichthyol ointment is applied to clean facial skin in the morning and evening. After washing your skin, you can also wipe it with a solution of chamomile or calendula.
Ichthyol ointment is suitable for all skin types, except very sensitive ones. It is used as follows. It is necessary to mix ichthyol ointment with glycerin in a ratio of 4 to 1. Apply to problem areas, cover with oilcloth and bandage on top. Leave overnight. Usually, ichthyol ointment can get rid of comedones in 1-2 procedures.
The price is also pleasant: in pharmacies the drug can be purchased for 80–120 rubles.
Based on patient reviews, ichthyol ointment is very effective against blackheads, closed comedones (whiteheads), pimples, acne and even boils. However, contraindications somewhat narrow the circle of potential patients:
- Age up to 12 years;
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding;
- Cases of cancer in the family (and therefore a potential predisposition to cancer);
- Individual intolerance to components, allergies.
Tightening of pores
After any skin cleansing procedure, it is advisable to tighten the pores as much as possible to prevent infection, inflammation, or prevent their rapid re-contamination.
For this you can use:
- Egg white, whipped until foamy.
- Ice made from herbal teas.
- Lotion made from cucumber juice and vodka in a 2:1 ratio (you can use it to clean the epidermis from time to time);
- Aloe leaf juice tonic. Four teaspoons of crushed aloe are poured into 250 milliliters of water, infused for 60 minutes, and then boiled for about five minutes. Used when cooled. Use morning and evening.
- Two teaspoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, four teaspoons of glycerin and eight teaspoons of boiled water.
An excellent anti-inflammatory antiseptic is tincture of calendula flowers (two teaspoons) mixed with mineral water (250 milliliters). We also recommend reading about how to reduce pores on your face.
Facial tablets
The doctor may prescribe antibiotics for oral medications. This treatment is indicated only for severe disorders, when there are multiple acne. Antibacterial agents are prescribed only by a doctor who monitors the therapy process. Without a prescription, you can buy vitamin complexes and tablets to cleanse the body, which will help remove the problem from the inside.
Medicines to speed up the removal of toxins from the body:
- Lactofiltrum - allowed from 12 years of age, the average course of treatment is 2 weeks, there is a possibility of adverse reactions such as diarrhea, flatulence, allergies;
- Polypefan is a herbal preparation, taken for a week, contraindicated for stomach ulcers and antacid gastritis;
- Activated carbon - taken in the morning on an empty stomach at the rate of 1 tablet per 10 kg of body weight, analogues of the drug are Sorbex and Carbopect;
- Filtrum-STI - taken before meals 2-4 times a day for a week; adverse reactions may include allergies and constipation.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=fAEYSbXdgPs
Among antibacterial drugs, the doctor may prescribe Metronidazole, Levomycetin, Erythromycin, Dixycycline, Tetracycline. When taking antibiotics, you should prepare for their adverse reactions. These are dyspepsia, bloating, diarrhea. Antibacterial agents disrupt the microflora and reduce the medicinal effect of drugs, therefore they are taken together with immunomodulators.
Ointments and creams for blackheads: rules of choice
Creams and ointments for open comedones have a number of features that should be taken into account when choosing a medicinal product.
What is the difference between ointments and creams?
Ointments and creams for blackheads are different forms of remedies. Ointments include a large amount of fats and have the greatest depth of penetration of the active component. At the same time, the fatty elements of the composition are not absorbed into the skin, but remain on its surface. Creams have less fat content and are well absorbed by the skin. However, such products work more superficially than ointments.
Which is better: creams or ointments
Both creams and ointments are effective against open comedones. When choosing between these means, follow these useful recommendations:
- if you only have open comedones on your face, then you can choose any form of the drug;
- If your facial skin contains not only open comedones, but also closed, inflamed acne, then it is better to purchase a medicinal ointment. The drug will have a deep effect on inflamed areas, as well as “fight” blackheads.
How to choose the right cream or ointment for blackheads
To choose the right remedy for blackheads, you need to:
- Know exactly your skin type. Many remedies for blackheads are contraindicated for dry and sensitive skin;
- consult a cosmetologist.
A cosmetologist will help you choose a remedy for blackheads that is optimal for a woman.
Characteristics of zinc and salicylic ointment
Zinc ointment is considered one of the most effective remedies against acne. It is a white suspension based on petroleum jelly and zinc.
Zinc suspension from different manufacturers may differ in composition. Manufacturers often also introduce additional components - lanolin, menthol, salicylic acid.
The trace element zinc has unique properties, so a zinc suspension used to treat problem areas of the skin provides the following effect:
- reducing the intensity of the sebaceous glands;
- disinfection;
- drying;
- elimination of irritations;
- elimination of inflammatory processes;
- creating a protective barrier;
- restoration of skin cells;
- whitening effect;
- increasing the elasticity of the epidermis.
Regardless of the composition and manufacturer, zinc suspension is always used only after the face has been completely cleansed of cosmetics and surface contaminants.
The product is applied in a thin layer several times a day. In this case, the use of cosmetics is unacceptable, otherwise the treatment will not bring results.
During the treatment period, it is important to minimize the consumption of products containing copper, since this element blocks the effect of zinc.
Also, zinc suspension should not be used in parallel with other drugs for a similar purpose.
Salicylic ointment is an effective remedy against acne and blackheads on the nose. The therapeutic effect of the ointment is due to the antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of salicylic acid, which is the basis of the product.
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Salicylic ointment disinfects problem areas of the epidermis and provides drying.
Salicylic acid in the ointment has a dissolving effect on the stratum corneum of the epidermis and sebaceous plugs, making pore cleansing as comfortable as possible.
However, the product must be used strictly according to the instructions, because abuse of the drug can cause side effects.
Salicylic products are applied to previously cleansed problem areas of the skin in a thin layer. It is best to perform the procedure before bed, since combining treatment with the use of cosmetics is not recommended.
Pharmaceutical products against dark spots
The main goal of the fight against open comedones (as the black plug is called in the official language) is to try to remove it. But, under no circumstances should you clean the ducts with hands that have not been treated with an antiseptic and carry out the procedure on uncleaned skin. Otherwise, when you press on the point, a small part of the sebum will come out, and the other, along with microbes, will break into the inner layers of the skin, which will cause inflammation and the appearance of new, but purple pimples. It is better to get rid of them using special means. Some cases require contacting a specialist who will prescribe antibacterial therapy using antiseptic drugs.
Ointment with ichthyol
Ichthyol preparation based on the active substance - ichthammol (ichthyol) - is recognized as an available remedy in therapy against blackheads. A substance with a pronounced antimicrobial effect has a wide range of applications for skin diseases. Ichthammol in contact with skin:
- Promotes increased blood circulation by stimulating nerve endings.
- The resinous structure of the ointment makes it easier to pull out accumulations of dirt and pus from the skin.
- Has an analgesic effect.
- The components of the ointment accelerate skin regeneration.
Reviews from patients indicate that the ichthyol drug is especially effective at the beginning of the inflammatory process at the stage of acne formation.
Spot lubrication is carried out at night. In the morning, subcutaneous accumulations can be detected on the surface. Ichthyol ointment for blackheads will help dissolve the sebaceous plug in the thickness of the skin. In the morning, wipe your face with a solution of calendula or chamomile. During treatment with ichthyol, dermatologists advise avoiding alcoholic beverages, coffee and codeine medications - analgesics.
The cream is suitable for any skin, excluding those sensitive to the components of the composition. In the treatment of blackheads, another recipe for using the drug at night is used: ichthyol cream is mixed with glycerin (4/1), applied to areas of the skin, covered with a film and secured with a bandage. This procedure will remove congestion from the skin in 1-2 nights.
Contraindications to the use of ointment:
- Pregnancy and lactation.
- Predisposition to cancer.
- Children's age – up to 12 years.
- Sensitivity to the component.
It looks like a brown mass with a specific odor. Ichthyol cream has many analogues, but the medicinal drug with a simple name is still competitive and effective in anti-acne therapy.
Salicylic ointment
The broad-spectrum drug in its pure form is not used for the treatment of blackheads due to its strong concentration. A 2% ointment is suitable in combination with day cream. As an additional component, salicylic ointment is effective as a peeling and cleansing agent against blackheads. A cream is prepared on its basis, which can be stored in a cool place for a month. To do this, mix equal proportions of zinc, salicylic, sulfur ointment with the addition of a couple of drops of your favorite essential oil (citrus and tea tree oils are most effective against skin problems). It should be applied twice a day for 2-3 hours, after the time has elapsed, remove with warm water or infusion of chamomile, string or calendula.
Zinc ointment
Another inexpensive and safe remedy, zinc ointment, prevents the appearance of acne on the face. Zinc can often be found in cosmetics for oily epidermis. The mineral in the pharmaceutical preparation stimulates:
- saturation of tissues with oxygen;
- natural production of collagen fibers;
- skin renewal through cell division;
- regulation of sebum secretion;
- healing of the integument;
- suppression of inflammatory processes.
The drug is distributed in a thin layer over previously cleansed skin. It is not absorbed, so after half an hour it is removed from the surface with a dry cloth. Zinc ointment for blackheads on the face is applied three times a day to problem areas for mild lesions, 6 times for excessive lesions. Avoid using near the eyes and test for allergies before use.
Instructions for use
Before applying the medication, it is important to find out how to properly use ichthyol ointment for acne. In short, the method of application consists only of superficial treatment of the skin. To quickly get rid of the disease, it is important to decide on the form of the composition and the concentration of the active element.
- Acne is treated with 10% ointment. Pharmacies sell formulations with 5-30% concentration of the active substance. The safest thing to do is consult a dermatologist, who will recommend the optimal concentration of the drug.
- In some cases, it is better to treat problematic formations with a 10-30% aqueous-alcohol solution, 10% consistency containing glycerin.
Regardless of the location of the acne (under the skin or on its surface), it is enough to apply the pharmaceutical agent to the top of the inflammation. The composition is evenly distributed using cotton swabs or swabs. To eliminate deep indentations on the skin left by acne, it is more effective to use lotions and compresses.
We recommend
Detailed review (instructions for use, reviews) of Ichthyol ointment.
Indications and contraindications
Ichthyol ointment is effective in combating any dermatological damage of bacterial etiology, accompanied by inflammatory processes. It is used as an auxiliary component in complex therapy.
In accordance with the instructions, the drug is indicated for:
- acne, pimples with purulent discharge;
- furunculosis and other acne located under the surface of the skin;
- frostbite, local burns;
- erysipelas, eczema;
- demodicosis;
- streptoderma;
- hidradenitis;
- conjunctivitis, stomatitis;
- gynecological ailments.
Often ointment is prescribed for cuts, small abrasions, and after squeezing out pimples. With its help, pain and inflammation are quickly relieved.
Dermatologists focus on the almost complete absence of contraindications for liniment. It is so safe that it is suitable for pregnant women and children.
Directions for use and doses
To quickly eliminate inflammation, it is recommended to use ichthyol ointment in accordance with the recommendations presented below.
Effective therapeutic regimens or how to use ichthyol ointment correctly:
- To eliminate individual pimples, use a 10-20% ointment composition. It is applied to the base of the pimple and distributed evenly over the skin near the inflammation, but not more than 3 mm. Large pimples must be covered with a gauze bandage, which holds the medicine in the problem area.
Many patients do not know how long to keep the composition on the surface of the skin. Dermatologists recommend applying the medication for no more than 8 hours. On the face – from 40 minutes to 2 hours.
- Acne located deep under the epithelium is treated in a similar way. The main difference is that a patch is applied to the problem area after treatment with ointment. A bandage (a face mask is prepared in a ratio of 1:4, where 4 parts of glycerin are taken for each part of the ointment) is applied overnight. In the morning, the skin is treated with aloe juice.
- Minor rashes are eliminated by uniformly distributing the composition over the surface of the skin, without additional fixation with a bandage.
- In 90% of cases, 10% of the composition is enough to eliminate acne in just one night. In some cases, pus may remain below the surface of the epithelium. In such cases, it is better to re-treat the skin, or remove the top strip yourself with an antiseptic-treated needle.
Dermatologists advise applying Ichthyol ointment when the patient is in no hurry and is at home.
Features of use for acne
Dermatologists recommend taking into account a number of features when using liniment. General recommendations:
- The composition not only relieves inflammation, but also protects the skin from acne spots.
- Before applying ichthyol ointment, it is important to clean the skin, steam it, and treat it with an antiseptic.
- 3-4 days before the therapeutic course, quit smoking and alcoholic beverages.
- After treating the epidermis, it is soothed with chamomile decoction.
- For acne, problematic skin can be smeared with ichthyol ointment.
In order to prevent irritation or peeling of the skin, it is important to exclude contact of the epithelium with other cosmetics, incl. softening.
Side effects
The ointment has virtually no side effects, the only exceptions being allergic reactions due to individual intolerance to ichthyol or petroleum jelly. Side effects:
- Ichthyol ointment for acne on the face can cause itching at the site of application, local swelling, rash or redness. These manifestations disappear after stopping use of the composition.
- After treatment, the skin may darken, but this is only a consequence of the use of liniment.
In 99% of cases, patients do not have any side effects or body reactions to the drug in question.
The best imported ointments for blackheads
Imported manufacturers use the active ingredient in their products - adapalene, which has comedolytic (affects open and closed comedones) and anti-inflammatory activity. It can be supplemented with benzoyl peroxide, which has an exfoliating and keratolytic effect.
Effezel
Rating: 4.9
Effezel took first place in the ranking. This is a combined French drug containing adapalene with benzoyl peroxide. It is suitable for the treatment of acne with comedones (including blackheads), papules, pustules. The drug has a pronounced sebostatic effect - it prevents excessive production of sebum.
Apply Effezel onto your fingertips and distribute a thin layer over all pathological areas once a day (before bedtime). In this case, the skin must be clean and dry. Do not allow the gel to get into the eyes or other mucous membranes. Noticeable improvements develop after 1-4 weeks from the start of therapy.
Girls in the reviews note that this product noticeably improved the condition of their skin after a course of use. But they share that at first they experienced severe irritation, which non-comedogenic cosmetics with a moisturizing effect helped eliminate. On the way to perfect skin, you have to go through redness, burning and increased temporary rashes. But the end result proves that Effezel is not in vain among the best.
- affects both blackheads and pustular elements;
- the effect of the drug occurs by the end of the first week of therapy;
- It heals, not masks.
- not suitable for sensitive skin;
- at the addiction stage it causes burning, hyperemia, and dryness.
Differin
Rating: 4.8
Second place in the ranking of the best was given to Differin. This is another French drug based on adapalene. He acts more delicately than Effezel. A gel-like consistency is suitable for oily skin types, and a creamy consistency for dry skin types. Differin has proven itself well in the treatment of open and closed comedones and acne.
The drug is approved for use from 12 years of age. Apply a thin layer of it to areas of the skin with open comedones once a day before bed. Pre-cleanse and dry problematic skin. Application is done carefully, avoiding contact of the drug with the eyes, lips, mucous membranes or corners of the nose. Noticeable clinical improvement occurs after 4-8 weeks of treatment. And lasting improvement is achieved after a 3-month therapeutic course.
In reviews, cosmetologists, dermatologists and those who managed to get rid of blackheads praise Differin. But they note that one should not count on quick results. If you persist and continue treatment for 12 weeks, then open comedones and acne will not remind you of themselves for a long time. Thanks to the lasting improvements that Differin provides, it deservedly ranks among the best.
- reduces the number of rashes;
- makes blackheads less noticeable and gradually completely gets rid of them;
- the skin begins to glow from the inside and acquires a healthy glow.
- long course of treatment;
- During therapy, subcutaneous pimples appear.
Adaklin
Rating: 4.7
Third place was given to the Indian analogue of Differin - Adaklin. They both contain adapalene and their mechanism of action is identical. The drug can get rid of blackheads, reduce inflammation, regulate sebum secretion, and even out the texture of the skin.
Before using Adaklin, clean and dry the facial skin. With a light touch, apply the product evenly to the affected surface once a day (in the evening), avoiding contact of the drug with the mucous membranes of the eyes or lips. If short-term irritation of the skin occurs, therapy is temporarily suspended until the unpleasant symptoms disappear.
Reviews about Adaklin are mostly positive. Although some could not withstand the adaptation period and were forced to stop the course of treatment. And those who have the patience note that after 1-2 weeks the skin completely gets used to it and calms down, and adapalene acts directly on open comedones.
Using Differin
Another option for getting rid of unpleasant blackheads is Differin ointment. This is a medication that requires a 12-day course of treatment. During this time, the drug eliminates sebaceous-keratin plugs, restores epidermal and keratinization processes (promotes the normal functioning of skin cells).
Moreover, the product has a pronounced antiseptic effect. In addition to acne, it copes excellently with other skin rashes. In particular, the drug has proven itself to be an effective eliminater of acne and irritation.
Why do blackheads appear?
The functions of the skin may seem invisible at first glance, but their importance cannot be overestimated. The main ones are providing thermal and mechanical protection and removing toxins
Many vital processes of the skin are carried out with the help of pores and sebaceous glands.
But sometimes disturbances occur in the functioning of the sebaceous glands, as a result of which there is too much sebum.
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Excess sebum mixes with environmental impurities, dead skin cells and makeup residue. This mass enters the pores and forms a plug.
Such pores lose functionality, which is why the natural physiological processes in the epidermis are disrupted.
Visually, clogged pores on the face are perceived as blackheads, and cosmetologists call them comedones.
Typically, the skin on the nose, forehead and chin is susceptible to the appearance of blackheads - these areas contain a large number of sebaceous glands.
Therefore, in areas with blackheads, the appearance of pimples and pustules is often observed.
If nothing is done, then, in addition to deterioration in appearance, poor skin condition can affect the health of the entire body. This means that the fight against blackheads and their companions, acne, must begin immediately.
In modern cosmetology, many different methods are used to remove comedones. But they are all based on one main action - cleansing the pores on the face.
Only facial cleansing can provide good results in the fight against acne or blackheads.
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Dealing with this problem on your own is quite difficult. But if you use auxiliary therapeutic agents - special creams and ointments, you can not only restore skin health, but also significantly improve its condition.
Unlike creams, ointment is considered a therapeutic agent because, along with care, it ensures the penetration of medicinal substances into the skin.
At the moment, the following types of ointments against blackheads and pimples have collected the best reviews:
- zinc;
- ichthyol;
- retinoic;
- salicylic;
- Vishnevsky's drug.
Each of the drugs has specific properties that must be taken into account when choosing a product.
What are blackheads
Let's start with the fact that blackheads are a common name, but in fact it is correct to call them open comedones, which appear as a result of the accumulation of sebum, or, if it’s easier for you, sebum and dead skin cells in the pores or near the hair follicles. Due to the fact that there are, in principle, more sebaceous glands on the nose than on the rest of the body, blackheads appear there.
By the way, dermatologists classify blackheads as one of the subtypes of acne.
Blackheads are also often confused with pseudoblackheads, or sebaceous filaments. But let's agree on the shore what is what.
- With blackheads, the pores are completely clogged and they are black (this is not racism, really). When dirt in the pores comes into contact with air, it oxidizes and darkens, leading to the formation of blackheads.
- But sebaceous filaments are more like channels through which milky, transparent yellow or grayish sebum comes out from the sebaceous glands. And it’s useless to fight sebaceous filaments - everyone has them and will appear on the face, no matter how you remove, wash, scrub and wash. Such a life.
Effect of acne medications
Knowing the cause of acne formation, it is easier to choose the right effective remedy. There are hundreds of drugs that have proven themselves, most of them have 80% similar composition.
Therapeutic effect:
- Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial agents: inflamed pimples contain pus, and this is unfavorable microflora, especially streptococci. Without destroying pathological microorganisms, it is impossible to completely cure acne; drugs are prepared on the basis of an antibiotic.
- Regenerative products: for rapid healing of acne wounds, containing ingredients that accelerate tissue restoration - retinol, B vitamins, Vitamin C, E.
- Cleansers and moisturizers: dissolve dirt and oil accumulated on the surface of the skin during the day. The composition contains soft surfactants (surfactants), for example, Coco-Betaine, Caprylyl / Capryl Glucoside and others. On the tube they look for: glycolic acid - Glycolic Acid, lactic acid - Lactic Acid, salicylic acid - Salicylic Acid.
External acne treatments are divided into ointments, gels, creams, and moisturizing solutions. Dermatologists recommend using medications of different forms for the treatment of acne, small spots and blackheads, combining them wisely.
Cosmetic creams
On the Russian market, cosmetic creams are represented by both domestic products and products from foreign manufacturers.
Useful creams for blackheads of domestic production
Among Russian-made medicinal creams, the following products can be distinguished that are suitable for eliminating blackheads:
- local action cream “SOS” from the Propeller brand. The cream contains cynidonone, corn oil, panthenol, camphor, and glycerin. Cinidonone is the main active substance that reduces the production of sebum and prevents the occurrence of inflammatory processes. Corn oil, panthenol and camphor help accelerate skin regeneration. The cosmetic product is applied pointwise to problem areas from one to several times a day. The best therapeutic effect is achieved by applying the cream to blackheads at night. The cream has a rather oily consistency; after application, it is completely absorbed within an hour. The cosmetic product can be used for any skin type. Cost - 160 rubles,
- cream-gel for acne “Before and After” from. The product contains extracts of green tea, calendula, chamomile and other medicinal plants. The main active component against comedones is aloe vera gel. Aloe vera is a plant that enhances the regeneration of the skin, dilutes the secretions of the sebaceous glands, and has anti-inflammatory properties. The cosmetic product is applied twice a day: morning and evening. Cost: 135 rubles.
Creams for open comedones from foreign manufacturers
Among foreign-made anti-blackhead creams, you can choose the following products:
- Pure Skin concentrated cream for acne and blackheads from BioAQUA. The composition includes jojoba oil, which removes excess sebum from the hair follicles, beneficial aloe vera extract, and shea butter, which has regenerating properties. The cream is applied pointwise to problem areas 2-3 times a day. The cost of the cream is 260 rubles,
- cream-gel for problem skin against imperfections Effaclar Duo. Indicated for problem skin with clogged pores and excessive sebum production. The product reduces sebum production, and also mattifies and moisturizes the skin. Apply morning and/or evening to the face, avoiding the area around the eyes. Cost - 1060 rubles,
- Uriage Isaac 3-Regu cream, which is designed to eliminate blackheads, clogged pores, and inflamed acne. The product softens the stratum corneum of the epidermis, has an antibacterial effect, moisturizes the skin and evens out its texture. The cream has a light texture and can serve as a base for makeup. The method of application is the same as for Effaclar Duo cream. Cost: 800–1000 rubles.
comparison table
After studying the advantages and disadvantages of each product, it continues to seem like the choice will be difficult. But this is not a problem, because it is enough to clearly look at the differences between each product and understand what is better to buy.
You may be interested in: TOP 10 best shampoos for oily hair: rating of budget and luxury products
Name | Compound | Skin type | Cost (rubles) | Rating according to users |
GARNIER Clear Skin Active 3-in-1 | Salicylic acid, water | Problematic/acne | 290 | 5 |
Gel scrub Propeller Pore Vaccum | Detergents, microparticles, acids | Problematic | 120 | 4.9 |
Holika Holika Pig-nose clear black head peeling massage gel | Olive fruit oil, flavorings, alcohol, styrene, aloe leaf juice, avocado oil | For anyone | 650 | 4.9 |
L'Oreal Paris Pure Zone Deep cleansing 7 in 1 | Salicylic acid, exfoliating particles, water | For any / problematic | 320 | 4.7 |
Cream-gel Cynovit | Olive oil, zinc pyrithione, panthenol, glycerin, lactic acid | For problematic | 270 | 4.6 |
Lotion Lubriderm Seratsin | Cosmetic base, water | For all types | 320 | 4.5 |
BioAqua Mask with activated carbon | Hyaluronic acid, vitamin e, water | For any/problematic | 130 | 4.4 |
Thanks to the comparison table, buyers can clearly look at each product and understand for themselves which is better.
Composition and beneficial properties
Ichthyol ointment contains about 15-20% pure ichthyol (ammonium salt of shale oil sulfonic acids), which causes a sharp and persistent odor.
For this reason, many people avoid using it for medicinal purposes, forgetting about its many advantages:
- the drug has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and local analgesic properties,
- Activation of blood circulation helps to increase the overall immunity of the skin,
- cell renewal accelerates: old ones are destroyed, nutrition improves and the growth of new tissues is activated.
The formation of blackheads occurs when enlarged pores become clogged. The reasons for this are increased sebum production, the ingress of dead skin particles, street dirt and bacterial activity.
Ichthyol ointment draws out blackheads and dissolves them, penetrating into the deepest areas of the skin.
In addition to the main component, the ointment contains Vaseline, which ensures better application and absorption. There are two dosage forms with different percentages of substances:
- 10% (10 g ichthyol and 90 g vaseline in the composition),
- 20% (20 g ichthyol and 80 g vaseline in the composition).
In pharmacies, the medicine is sold in small dark glass jars packed in cardboard packages. The cost rarely exceeds 100 rubles, which is not comparable to other drugs with similar effects.
Next, let's look at how to use this unique tool.
Pharmacy remedies against blackheads
Pharmacy remedies for blackheads on the face are presented in the form of ointments, gels or masks. One of the most common medications is retinoic ointment. Its main active substance is isotretinoin. It is also found in other similar products.
It is used for:
- pink acne;
- oral type dermatitis;
- papulopustular acne;
- severe form of nodular cystic rash.
- seborrhea.
After cleansing, you need to wait 20-25 minutes for the skin to dry and only then apply the product in a thin layer.
Retinoic ointment is prohibited if:
- there is liver failure;
- the girl is pregnant;
- there is a period of lactation;
- a person has hypervitaminosis A;
- there is too much sensitivity to the components of the drug.
Side effects may appear only after 7 days of regular use of the drug. These are dry skin, unpleasant burning, itching, and the appearance of red spots. If side effects make themselves felt and cause severe discomfort, stop using the drug for 2-3 days.
If swelling and scabies are observed within 2-3 days after the start of use, the person has an individual intolerance to the product.
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Differin
Differin is one of the best remedies against blackheads. Available in ointment form. The active substance is a synthetic variation of retinoic acid. It restores the skin, reduces the level of fat reproduction, and produces an anti-inflammatory effect. Principle of action: softening blackheads and drawing their contents to the surface of the skin.
Apply Differin once a day to the area of the face affected by comedones. It is good to use for oily skin types. If it is sensitive, the product can cause peeling, dryness and irritation. Side effects can also be observed as a consequence of the action of the drug - all the bad substances come out, which contributes to the short-term formation of new acne.
Differin is one of the effective remedies for blackheads on the face. The before and after results are shown in the photo.
If the medication is tolerated normally, everything should go away quickly. The course of treatment is 3 months.
Zinc ointment
Remedies for blackheads on the face like Differin may seem expensive to some. There is a cheaper drug to combat comedones - zinc ointment. Although it has a wide spectrum of action, it is at the same time an ineffective medicine. There are no contraindications to its use. Can be used even by infants.
Zinc ointment contains petroleum jelly, which prevents the skin from drying out as a result of exposure to other components of the drug. This element also produces a regenerative effect on the skin. This ointment can be used not only for the treatment of black rash, but also simply for prevention.
To treat comedones with zinc ointment, you need to apply it in a thick layer to each point. For preventive purposes, it is applied in a thin layer.
Silicylic acid
Silicylic acid is a colorless liquid with an alcoholic odor. It is contraindicated for use by children, nursing mothers and pregnant women, people with severe dry skin and kidney failure. In addition to silicylic acid itself, it contains ethanol.
It is recommended to apply the substance to the skin locally, using no more than 10 mg for adults or 1 mg for children over 1 year of age. The course of treatment lasts from 1.5 to 2 months.
Folk remedies for blackheads
At home, you can also prepare many really effective remedies that will help get rid of comedones. The main thing is to choose the ingredients correctly, taking into account your skin type.
You can independently apply the following methods to combat comedones:
- We steam and make a compress. First you need to take a steam bath, prepare a decoction of medicinal herbs and hold your face over it to open the pores. Then take a piece of gauze, soak it in warm liquid and apply it to the inflammation. Afterwards, you definitely need to close the pores; for this you can use lotion or aloe vera juice, then lubricate your face with a cream with moisturizing properties.
- Home peeling. For good peeling, you need to prepare a scrub: oatmeal and soda, make a paste. Also oatmeal, honey and yolk, a good option for a scrub with coffee, egg and lemon juice.
- Folk masks. Kefir mixture perfectly removes sebum and dirt. Heat the kefir in a water bath and add a spoonful of salt. You can also beat egg whites with granulated sugar until thick, and you can combine them with berries or fruits. Protein also goes well with lemon juice and aloe vera.
- Lotions for facial skin. The juice of the beautiful green parsley is suitable for wiping the face 2 times a day for a month. A tincture of sage and dandelion is also suitable as a lotion.
- Masks based on cosmetic clay also effectively fight blackheads.
- With calendula infusion you can make masks, lotions and add to cream.
You can also use turmeric spices, for example, lemon, orange zest, essential oils and chamomile.
Causes of blackheads
There are many reasons for the appearance of these formations:
- Hormonal disbalance. During puberty, sebum is secreted with increased intensity. This leads to the formation of comedones. The same thing happens with hormonal imbalances in adulthood during pregnancy or menopause.
- Nutrition. Skin problems are possible if a person consumes fat, flour, dairy and chocolate in excess. Black spots can be a consequence of gastritis, so if they appear, it would be a good idea to visit a gastroenterologist.
- Using the wrong skin care product.
- Poor cleansing of skin pores. Regular foundation does not allow you to properly regulate sebum. It is recommended to use non-comedogenic foundations.
- Violation of the frequency of exfoliation. Exfoliation is necessary. Cleansing the skin of dead cells opens passages for sebum to exit. If you don't cleanse regularly, your pores will become clogged.
Criterias of choice
You need to choose a product to get rid of blackheads based on the condition of your skin and its needs. It is best to visit a dermatologist to determine which products will be more effective. There are no specific selection criteria. It is important to remember that some products can cause an allergic reaction, so the composition is carefully studied before use.
You can get rid of dots yourself without the use of special cosmetic procedures. The main thing is to choose the right tool that will perfectly cope with the task.
Facial skin care plays an important role in everyone's life. The appearance of imperfections, such as comedones, can not only spoil the mood, but also affect a person’s mental health. This is a problem for men and women of different ages. They can appear for the following reasons: poor environment, poor nutrition or poor quality care. Most cases of such a problem require a comprehensive solution. But there is a remedy for blackheads on the nose that can be used separately. With frequent use of the products presented in our rating, you can get rid of comedones forever.
Blackheads: causes of appearance and ways to combat them
Metabolic disorders in the epidermis are the most common occurrence for oily skin.
At the same time, the skin on the face does not receive enough nutrients, which is manifested by a dull color, uneven relief and various aesthetic defects in the form of blackheads, pimples, acne and others.
Excessive activity of the sebaceous glands causes the appearance of comedones. They are open and closed. Closed comedones are a blockage of the sebaceous ducts in the thickness of the skin.
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When they become inflamed, acne-like lesions appear on the face. Open comedones are blackheads, plugs that clog pores on the surface of the face.
They consist of cells of the stratum corneum that do not have time to be removed, held together by sebum. The color of black dots is given by enzymes formed during the oxidation process.
The peak of increased greasiness occurs at a young age, when the body has the most hormones.
The sensitivity of the sebaceous glands to hormonal levels varies from person to person, which explains the presence of three main skin types. As the number of hormones decreases with age, fat content also decreases.
As a result, dry skin suffers from dehydration and lack of protection, while oily and combination type epidermis normalizes and later ages.
But you will have to wait a long time, and 10% of people with an oily type of epidermis do not notice any significant changes in the oiliness of the skin on their face even after 30 years.
Since oily skin has problems with exfoliation of cells of the stratum corneum, that is, with skin renewal, it requires special care.
This includes daily cleansing, regular cosmetic procedures (masks, scrubs, etc.), and the use of special cosmetics for the appropriate type of epidermis.
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This allows you not only to look good, despite the peculiarities of the skin on your face, but also helps to maintain youth.
Any external remedy (folk, homemade or purchased at a pharmacy) helps against blackheads for a short time.
After a few days, sometimes even hours, the plugs clog the pores again.
If you replace sweet, fatty, fried, peppered and refined foods with fermented milk products, plant fiber and complex carbohydrates, then after a few months you will notice an improvement in the condition of your skin and a decrease in the number of pimples and blackheads on your face.
Movement helps restore hormonal balance in the body. The most ordinary walks can normalize hormones and, therefore, improve mood, the condition of nails, hair and skin.
True, you need to walk every day, covering at least seven kilometers.
Cream composition
When choosing a cream to combat, pay attention to its composition. There are several components that provide it with maximum effectiveness.
So, these include:
- zinc - helps get rid of the dead layer of epithelium, softens the skin;
- salicylic acid - cleanses pores, disinfects and disinfects the skin, prevents the appearance of new acne, helps restore healthy skin;
- benzoyl - helps cleanse the skin and get rid of acne, because it effectively cleans the ducts and removes excess fat and dirt from there;
- lactic acid - can also cleanse the skin of the face, as well as lighten it a little;
- yeast complexes - and prevent the appearance of new ones;
- fruit acids - soften the skin, promote exfoliation of the upper layer of the epidermis.
A cream for blackheads may also contain natural herbal ingredients, which also help cleanse the skin, nourish and soften it. Anti-comedogenic products may include extracts of tea tree, green tea, lavender, olive oil, thermal water, etc.
A proper acne treatment should meet the following principles:
- suit your skin type;
- the cream should have a light structure so as not to clog pores;
- It is better to give preference to creams without alcohol. Otherwise, with regular use, the skin on the nose and cheeks will begin to peel off greatly;
- The optimal cream is one that not only cleanses pores, but also tightens them.
Treatment methods for blackheads
Mechanical
Squeezing out blackheads is not the best way. During the process of mechanical action, the skin is injured and the pores are stretched, attracting even more dirt. In addition, there is a risk of scarring. Even if you couldn’t resist squeezing out a blackhead, be sure to wipe your skin with a soothing tonic that tightens pores.
Ultrasonic
More and more often, cosmetologists are resorting to this method. Ultrasonic cleaning does not damage tissue, gently cleanses, removes dead epidermal cells, smoothes and softens the skin. Do this procedure for 2-3 months, and the number of blackheads will noticeably decrease.
Home
An excellent home care product is white clay masks. The natural absorbent wonderfully removes excess sebum, dries out inflammation, tightens pores, removes toxins and mattifies. The skin becomes fresh and attractive. The mask formula is usually supplemented with antibacterial components (aloe vera, rosemary, etc.
If you don’t have clay on hand, you can use liquid honey. This is an excellent natural antiseptic that does not dry out and delicately cleanses the skin.
Acne can not only be removed, but also lightened. Mix the juice of half a lemon and one cucumber with a spoon of honey. Wipe your face with the mixture 2 times a day and monitor the results. Lemon juice can be replaced with apple cider vinegar. After some time, the visibility of the blackheads should decrease.
Camouflage
Avoid foundation and powder with a thick texture. Replace them with a light water-based PP or BB cream, whose airy consistency does not clog pores and does not cause inflammation. If your skin is too oily and very shiny, you can add matteness using loose powder. This will not only hide blackheads, but also protect your skin from road dust, soot and dirt.
Modern gadgets
Some manufacturers are trying to solve the problem of blackheads using unique technologies. A striking example is the new Clarisonic device. It cleanses impurities well, copes with even stubborn makeup, tightens enlarged pores, softens the skin, making it soft and smooth.
Gels, peelings, balms, foams
And other ready-made cleansers that you can find in stores. You shouldn't grab everything. It makes sense to consult with a cosmetologist and take the daily care that suits your skin. After any cleansing, do not forget to moisturize your skin.
Change your lifestyle
Do you want to remain flawless? You will have to get rid of bad habits, give up fast food, alcohol, sweets and fatty foods. All this has a detrimental effect on the condition of the skin and provokes active secretion of sebaceous secretion. Eat more proteins, foods with fiber, vitamins A and E. Your digestion will improve, which means your skin will look more beautiful.
For an instant aesthetic effect, adhesive plasters for the T-zone with a carbon or herbal base are suitable. You can find them at the pharmacy and they are inexpensive. The truth is that sticky strips will not solve the root problem of blackheads.
Do these procedures regularly if you need quick and obvious results. And competent daily care will help maintain the effect.
- Clay-based cleansing masks absorb sebum, mattify oily skin areas and prevent inflammation. Apply the mask after a steam bath for better cleansing.
- Exfoliants - both mechanical (scrubs) and chemical (peels), remove the stratum corneum of the epidermis, facilitating the release of sebum, and help reduce sebaceous plugs. Some scrubs have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Mechanical cleansing is an effective way to quickly get rid of acne and comedones. It is better to perform this procedure by a specialist. The downside is that the recovery period after cleaning can take up to a week.
Going to a cosmetologist or dealing with clogged enlarged pores on your own is every woman’s business. Fortunately, there are now enough methods for getting rid of blocked sebaceous glands, so you can use any suitable one.
In parallel to changing the style of caring for your skin, it is worth changing your diet, eliminating unhealthy foods (excessively sweet, fatty, smoked, etc.) from the foods you consume.
Simple tools for squeezing out comedones can be purchased at any cosmetics store; in extreme cases, they can be squeezed out manually. But before you do this, you need to prepare the skin:
- remove makeup with your usual product;
- wipe your face with a decoction of chamomile to cleanse the skin of remaining traces of cosmetics and disinfect the surface (or use a decoction of calendula or sage);
- let the broth dry on its own on the skin;
- carry out the procedure of squeezing out comedones with a tool or manually.
You can complete this cosmetic procedure for mechanical removal of sebaceous plugs with a soothing mask based on aloe or cucumber. But it is worth remembering that frequent mechanical procedures cause injury to the pores and stretch them, aggravating the situation.
Mechanical removal of comedones
You can steam the skin over steam (a decoction of chamomile, mint, sage, etc.), warm compresses, or simply in a bathhouse (sauna). But the steaming procedure is essentially useless without subsequent cleaning, because simply opening the pore with steam is not enough, the comedone will not go away on its own. Therefore, it is further better to use special adhesive patches for blackheads, which, after removal, will simply linger on them and leave the pores clean.
A prepared, steamed face is an excellent base for using any adhesive device, be it a small patch or a mask. But if it is not possible to steam your face, then feel free to choose a product with a warming effect (traditionally camphor is included in the adhesive side of a special patch).
Film masks for problem skin fit perfectly, filling all the dimples of the skin surface, so they are great for “pulling out” unfortunate comedones from the pores. Before using the mask, your face should be cleaned of excess dirt, and you should keep it on for as long as the manufacturer indicated in the instructions.
Blackhead patch
If you don’t want to buy special masks, then there are home alternative ways to get rid of blackheads. Here are some effective recipes:
- The easiest way to make a film mask is to mix 5 crushed charcoal tablets (pharmaceutical activated) with PVA office glue (1 tablespoon). Before the mask, it is better to cleanse the skin of dead cells using scrubbing. Next, you should apply the mixture to the “T” zone - forehead, nose and wings, chin. After complete drying, you can remove the resulting film, and along with it the comedones will be removed;
- Another interesting mask is made from a chicken egg and essential oils of tea tree and ylang-ylang (3 drops each). You can do it every day, especially since it doesn’t last long – only 15 minutes;
- if there is no inflammation on the face, then you can use this mask: mix a spoonful of baking soda with a spoonful of lemon juice and a pinch of cosmetic clay. Apply the mask to the nose and other problem areas, and after 20 minutes cleanse the skin with a sponge soaked in chamomile infusion. You can also simply wash off the mask.
We invite you to familiarize yourself with the White Clay Mask for Blackheads
Half an hour after using the mask, you can wipe problem areas of the skin with hydrosol of rose, chamomile, calendula, aloe, etc.
Scrubs and peelings can help in the complex of measures to treat acne. You can make the product yourself or purchase it at a cosmetic store.
Among the effective recipes for scrubs, we can highlight the following: for abrasives, you can take ground coffee or “Extra” salt, ground apricot kernels, chopped nuts, etc. Take a spoonful of the selected abrasive (take a tablespoon or a teaspoon, depending on the required amount of scrub), add this a spoonful of honey and a few drops of lavender ether.
You can combine the following components to make your own homemade scrub:
- cinnamon powder honey tea tree ether;
- white clay cucumber juice;
- sea salt avocado juice;
- soda liquid baby soap.
For peeling, it is effective to use honey, namely the patting method (pour a little honey onto your palms, rub them and use patting movements to work on the face, namely problem areas with pores). Such actions “pull out” comedones from the pores using the natural stickiness of honey. It is also effective to use strawberry pulp, which will serve as a scrub, and its acids as an “acid” peeling. To enhance the effect, you can use a special cosmetic glove.
If you can go to a salon, you can use various cosmetic procedures to get rid of sebum accumulations and blackheads that have appeared. A specialist, after examining the skin, can suggest the following methods for removing comedones:
- mechanical cleansing (although not a particularly useful procedure for the skin, it is effective. It takes place in several stages. After the session, a recovery period is necessary);
- phototherapy (a safe procedure without pain, which is carried out with a special device and requires a course of 8-10 sessions. Reduces the appearance of new blackheads and acne, blackheads disappear for a while, and the skin looks much healthier);
- chemical peeling (non-intense peeling brings the skin to life, normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands and thereby eliminates blackheads);
- mesotherapy (“the right” drugs will not only improve the skin in general, but also relieve it of many problems, including blackheads. A course of such therapy is necessary to see the effect);
- biodermabrasion (one of the peeling options, which is carried out using a complex of mechanical and chemical effects; using the procedure, you can significantly reduce the number and appearance of blackheads);
- fractional laser (an expensive procedure with a long recovery period, but it completely eliminates blackheads. At the same time, you can reduce wrinkles and skin irregularities);
- ultrasonic cleaning (a gentle procedure that requires a course. But it significantly reduces pores and normalizes sebum production).
Ultrasound facial cleansing
In order for the salon procedure to give the expected effect, you should follow the cosmetologist’s recommendations for skin care after the session.
Ideal ingredients for perfect skin
Salt and soda perfectly cleanse the skin of any impurities, exfoliate excess dead cells, help with acne and even acne. However, these ingredients have contraindications.
Salt and baking soda can be used separately, in tandem, or combined with other ingredients.
Gelatin is a popular component for film masks. Its beauty is in its versatility: the mask is suitable for any skin type, depending on what you combine gelatin with - fruit juice for oily skin, milk or cream for dry skin, or herbal decoction for any type of epidermis.
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A decoction of anti-inflammatory herbs or activated carbon crushed into fine dust makes a gelatin mask effective against acne.
Activated charcoal is another excellent remedy that helps with both blackheads and acne. Charcoal deeply cleanses pores and temporarily makes the skin matte, reducing the activity of the sebaceous glands.
You can use it as a separate charcoal mask by preparing a paste of crushed charcoal and water, or use it as part of other recipes, of which there are many on the Internet.
Clay - there are different types of it, which differ in color. Most of them are better suited for oily skin, but some, like black clay, can be tried on skin prone to dryness.
Almost all types of clay perfectly cleanse pores, absorbing their contents.
Video:
https://youtube.com/watch?v=wWhZtBESbg0
Egg (white) is another ingredient for the film mask. Gives matteness, improves skin condition and complexion, especially in combination with half a teaspoon of lemon juice.
Selecting and preparing masks is an interesting creative process, having mastered which you can be sure that your beauty is in your hands.
What can be included in anti-blackhead cosmetics?
We tell you which components can help deal with blackheads.
Acids
Now everyone loves acids and consider them the best remedy - they exfoliate the skin, renew epidermal cells, tighten pores and fight dull complexion. Be sure to apply Sanskrin before going outside to avoid irritation. Also, acids should not be applied all at once and suddenly introduced into your beauty routine, otherwise your skin will be in shock, which will lead to problems worse than blackheads.
READ ALSO: Acne - causes, signs, symptoms and treatment
What to look for in a cream, serum or lotion for blackheads:
- salicylic BHA acid;
- fruit AHA acids (glycolic, malic, citric, pyruvic, phytic).
Clay
Clay is a natural absorbent that removes sebum from the upper layer of the epidermis. Most often, kaolin, or white clay, is used in products for dissolving blackheads.
- This is an effective way to reduce skin oiliness;
- clay deeply cleanses dirt from enlarged pores;
- it has anti-inflammatory properties;
- clay is suitable for both oily and sensitive skin due to its gentle effect on the epidermis.
Zinc oxide is often used as an antiseptic for skin diseases, including acne. And zinc is most likely in your sunscreen, because it protects the skin from ultraviolet rays.
In cosmetics, sulfur is responsible for maintaining oxygen balance, tightens pores, removes the stratum corneum of the epidermis and has an anti-inflammatory effect. By the way, sulfur is often added to pharmaceutical ointments.
Green tea extract
Another good natural skin antiseptic. But you shouldn’t just brew tea bags and smear them on your face; after all, homemade recipes are not our thing.