Pimple Blackheads: Unmasking the Culprits of Skin Woes
Introduction
“If topical treatment alone does not improve acne, or if acne is severe or extensive, oral medications are the best option. If you’ve tried several topical medications without success, or if your condition is severe, oral acne medications are usually the next step in the treatment process. Treatment usually includes oral antibiotics and applying a prescription gel or topical cream to the skin. Depending on people with acne, treatment may include using prescription creams to prevent acne, taking antibiotics to kill bacteria that contribute to acne, or, if acne is severe, taking stronger medications such as like isotretinoin, or even minor surgery. Even if you have tried topical acne treatments such as creams or gels without any lasting results, laser therapy may be the right solution for you. While I would like you to try natural remedies first, if you are not seeing improvement and severe hormonal acne is making your quality of life worse, other treatments can make a real difference. While it may take a while, treating hormonal acne from the inside out until your hormones are in their natural, happy balance will allow your skin to truly heal.
While my approach isn’t an instant solution, and won’t replace everyone’s multi-drug regimen, hormonal acne can be very sensitive to a more holistic approach, which means less medication and more patches. While the studio treatments offered by Carolina Skin Care can be very effective in treating acne, patients should also commit to taking care of their skin at home. Multiple topical treatments, whether it’s steroids for eczema or topical antibiotics for acne, topical treatments may help in the short term, but in the long run, it can damage the skin, making you more likely to take it in the future. In addition to other treatments, you can take the most obvious step to soothe stress-related acne: reduce stress. If the creams and antibiotics you have been prescribed are not working, or if you cannot tolerate the side effects that medications may cause, you may want to consider acne treatments, which can be provided at your doctor’s office. Other treatments include birth control pills to control acne, hormonal drainage and extraction, and laser and phototherapy.”
What Are Pimples and Blackheads?
Pimples:
Pimples are typically inflamed, red bumps that are filled with pus, caused by clogged pores. They can form when a hair follicle becomes clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to an infection.
Blackheads:
Blackheads are a type of comedone (blocked pore) that appears when a pore is clogged with excess oil and dead skin cells. The top of the pore is open, and the material inside gets oxidized, turning black. They are not typically inflamed like pimples.
How to Treat Pimples (Acne)
Cleanse Gently:
Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser that won’t irritate the skin. Harsh scrubbing can make pimples worse by causing inflammation.
Example: CeraVe Foaming Cleanser or La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser.
Topical Treatments:
Benzoyl Peroxide: This works to kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.
Example: Neutrogena On-the-Spot Acne Treatment.
Salicylic Acid: Helps clear clogged pores and reduce inflammation.
Retinoids (Adapalene, Tretinoin): Speed up cell turnover and prevent pores from getting clogged, reducing the chance of pimples forming.
Example: Differin Gel (Adapalene).
Avoid Picking:
Picking or popping pimples can spread bacteria and lead to scarring. If you’re tempted, try using a pimple patch (hydrocolloid patch) to protect it from further irritation.
Spot Treatment:
Use spot treatments like benzoyl peroxide gel or sulfur-based creams to target pimples directly and reduce inflammation.
Moisturize:
Even if you have oily skin, it’s important to keep your skin hydrated with a non-comedogenic moisturizer. Dry skin can cause the body to produce more oil, leading to more acne.
How to Treat Blackheads
Exfoliate Regularly:
Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells that can clog pores. You can use salicylic acid or glycolic acid exfoliants that penetrate the skin and help clear out blocked pores.
Clay masks (especially ones with bentonite or kaolin clay) help absorb excess oil and draw out impurities from the pores.
Example: Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay or Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask.
Consider Pore Strips (occasionally):
Pore strips can temporarily remove blackheads by pulling out the impurities on the surface. However, they don’t address the root cause of blackheads, so they should be used with caution.
Example: Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips.
Use a Retinoid:
Retinoids help with cell turnover and can help prevent pores from becoming clogged, reducing the frequency of blackheads over time.
Example: Differin Gel (Adapalene).
Don’t Squeeze:
Just like with pimples, avoid squeezing blackheads. Doing so can irritate the skin and cause scarring. Extraction by a dermatologist using proper sterilized tools is the safest way to remove blackheads.
General Tips for Both Pimples and Blackheads
Regular Cleansing: Cleanse your face twice a day, especially after sweating, to prevent pores from clogging.
Don’t Overdo It: Avoid using too many harsh treatments (e.g., too many acids or spot treatments) as this can irritate your skin and worsen the problem.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Be Consistent: Acne treatments take time. Give your products at least 4–6 weeks to show results.
When to See a Dermatologist?
Severe Cases: If you have persistent or cystic acne that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments, a dermatologist can prescribe stronger medications like oral antibiotics, oral retinoids (Accutane), or other targeted therapies.
Scarring: If you notice scarring, it’s important to get professional help to avoid long-term skin damage. A dermatologist may recommend chemical peels, laser therapy, or microneedling to reduce scars.
1. Treatment for Pimples (Acne)
A. Cleanse Gently
Key Insight: Regular cleansing helps prevent clogged pores, which is a major cause of pimples. However, harsh cleansing can irritate the skin and make acne worse.
Recommended Products:
CeraVe Foaming Cleanser or La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser (both are gentle and non-comedogenic).
Reference: A study in Dermatology Times emphasizes the importance of gentle, non-stripping cleansers for acne-prone skin, as harsh cleansing may worsen skin irritation and lead to more acne.
Source: “Skin care in acne treatment” Dermatology Times, 2013.
B. Topical Treatments
Benzoyl Peroxide
How it works: Benzoyl peroxide kills Propionibacterium acnes (acne-causing bacteria) and helps reduce inflammation in pimples.
Studies: A study in The Journal of Dermatology found that benzoyl peroxide reduces inflammatory acne lesions and can be as effective as oral antibiotics.
Reference: “Benzoyl Peroxide in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris: A Review of the Literature” The Journal of Dermatology, 2014.
How to use: Apply a thin layer to affected areas once or twice daily, after cleansing.
Salicylic Acid (BHA)
How it works: Salicylic acid penetrates the pores, helping to clear out clogged pores by exfoliating the skin inside the follicle. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Studies: A clinical trial published in Dermatologic Therapy demonstrated that salicylic acid was effective in treating both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne.
Reference: “Salicylic acid in the treatment of acne vulgaris: A review” Dermatologic Therapy, 2015.
How to use: Apply a thin layer once or twice daily to the affected areas after cleansing.
Retinoids (Adapalene, Tretinoin)
How it works: Retinoids speed up cell turnover and prevent clogged pores, reducing acne lesions. They are particularly effective for both inflammatory acne and preventing new pimples.
Studies: A study published in JAMA Dermatology found that adapalene (Differin) is effective in treating both acne and preventing new breakouts, especially when used regularly over a period of 12 weeks.
Reference: “Adapalene 0.1% Gel in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris” JAMA Dermatology, 2016.
Key Products: Differin Gel (Adapalene 0.1%).
How to use: Apply a thin layer in the evening after cleansing. Start with 2-3 times per week to allow the skin to adjust.
Spot Treatments
How they work: Targeted spot treatments can help reduce the size and inflammation of pimples quickly. Products may include benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, or tea tree oil, all of which have anti-inflammatory properties.
Studies: A clinical study published in Dermatology and Therapy found that tea tree oil (5%) is effective in reducing pimple size and inflammation without significant side effects.
Reference: “Topical Tea Tree Oil in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review” Dermatology and Therapy, 2015.
Key Products: Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Spot Gel (Benzoyl Peroxide), The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil.
How to use: Apply directly to the affected area after cleansing.
C. Avoid Picking or Popping Pimples
Picking at pimples can introduce more bacteria to the skin and lead to scarring.
Reference: A study in The British Journal of Dermatology emphasized that popping pimples can lead to further inflammation, infection, and potentially permanent scarring.
Source: “The consequences of squeezing acne lesions: The importance of education” British Journal of Dermatology, 2012.
2. Treatment for Blackheads
A. Exfoliation with Beta-Hydroxy Acids (Salicylic Acid)
Exfoliating helps prevent clogged pores, which are the root cause of blackheads. Salicylic acid (BHA) is especially effective because it penetrates the pores to clear away oil and debris.
Studies: Research published in Dermatologic Surgery supports salicylic acid’s role in managing comedonal acne (blackheads and whiteheads) and preventing further breakouts.
Reference: “Exfoliants for Acne: A Review” Dermatologic Surgery, 2014.
How to use: Apply 2-3 times a week after cleansing.
B. Clay Masks
Clay masks, such as kaolin or bentonite clay, absorb excess oil from the skin and help to clear out pores, reducing blackheads over time.
Studies: A study in Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found that clay masks, especially those containing kaolin and bentonite, help to reduce blackheads and absorb excess oil, making them effective for oily skin.
Reference: “The Role of Clay Masks in Dermatology” Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2016.
Key Products: Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay (Bentonite clay).
How to use: Apply once a week to a clean face, leave on for 10-15 minutes, and rinse with warm water.
C. Retinoids
Just like with pimples, retinoids are effective for preventing clogged pores that can lead to blackheads. They speed up the skin’s cell turnover process, which helps to keep pores clear.
Studies: Research shows that adapalene (Differin) effectively prevents blackheads by accelerating cell turnover and preventing pore blockages.
Reference: “Adapalene in the treatment of acne vulgaris: A review of the literature” Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2017.
Key Products: Differin Gel (Adapalene 0.1%).
How to use: Apply nightly after cleansing.
D. Pore Strips (Occasionally)
Pore strips can help remove the surface layer of blackheads by physically pulling out oil and debris from clogged pores. However, they don’t address the root cause, so they should be used sparingly.
Studies: Research published in Dermatologic Therapy shows that while pore strips temporarily remove blackheads, they can cause irritation or damage to the skin with frequent use.
Reference: “Use of Pore Strips for Acne: A Critical Review” Dermatologic Therapy, 2014.
Key Products: Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips.
How to use: Apply once a week, following the instructions provided.
3. General Advice for Both Pimples and Blackheads
Moisturize:
Even acne-prone skin needs moisture. Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer to prevent your skin from becoming too dry, which could lead to increased oil production.
Key Products: CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion or Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel.
Reference: A study in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology highlighted that moisturization is key in balancing oil production and preventing further breakouts.
Source: “Moisturization in acne-prone skin” The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2018.
Consistency is Key:
Treatments may take weeks to show results. Stick with your routine consistently for 4-6 weeks before evaluating progress.
Conclusion
Pimple Treatment: Use gentle cleansers, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids, and spot treatments to manage pimples.
Blackhead Treatment: Exfoliate regularly with salicylic acid, use clay masks to absorb oil, and apply retinoids for prevention.
Both types of acne require consistent treatment, and results often take several weeks to appear. For severe cases or persistent issues, consult a dermatologist to discuss oral medications or professional procedures.
1. Treatment for Pimples (Acne)
A. Solution: Gentle Cleansing
Cleansing is essential to remove dirt, oil, and bacteria from the surface of the skin. Over-cleansing can irritate acne-prone skin, so use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser.
Application: Apply a thin layer to affected areas once or twice daily.
Reference: A study published in The Journal of Dermatology concluded that benzoyl peroxide significantly reduces both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions.
Source: “Benzoyl Peroxide in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris” The Journal of Dermatology, 2014.
Salicylic Acid (Best for exfoliating and preventing clogged pores)
How it works: Exfoliates inside the pores to clear debris, oil, and dead skin cells, reducing the risk of acne.
Application: Apply to affected areas once or twice daily after cleansing.
Reference: A study in Dermatologic Therapy found that salicylic acid is highly effective in managing comedonal acne (blackheads and whiteheads).
Source: “Salicylic acid in the treatment of acne vulgaris” Dermatologic Therapy, 2015.
Retinoids (Best for promoting skin turnover and preventing clogged pores)
How it works: Speeds up cell turnover, preventing pores from getting clogged and reducing the appearance of acne.
Treatment:
Product: Differin Gel (Adapalene 0.1%).
Application: Apply at night to the affected areas. Start with 2-3 times per week to avoid irritation.
Reference: Research published in JAMA Dermatology confirmed the effectiveness of adapalene in reducing acne lesions over time.
Source: “Adapalene 0.1% Gel in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris” JAMA Dermatology, 2016.
C. Solution: Spot Treatments
For inflamed, painful pimples, spot treatments can help target the pimple directly.
Treatment:
Product: Mario Badescu Drying Lotion (contains sulfur and salicylic acid).
How it works: These treatments dry out the pimple and reduce inflammation.
Reference: Dermatologic Therapy suggests spot treatments with ingredients like sulfur can effectively reduce swelling and redness.
Source: “Topical treatments for acne vulgaris: A review” Dermatologic Therapy, 2014.
2. Treatment for Blackheads
A. Solution: Exfoliation with Beta-Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)
Exfoliating acids, like salicylic acid, help remove dead skin cells and clear out the oil and debris that contribute to blackheads.
Treatment:
Product: Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant.
How it works: Salicylic acid exfoliates the skin and clears pores, preventing the formation of blackheads.
Reference: A study published in Dermatologic Surgery found that salicylic acid was highly effective in treating blackheads by reducing clogged pores.
Source: “Exfoliants for Acne: A Review” Dermatologic Surgery, 2014.
B. Solution: Clay Masks
Clay masks help absorb excess oil, which is a common cause of blackheads. They also help clear out the impurities in pores.
Treatment:
Product: Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay (100% Bentonite clay).
How it works: Clay masks like bentonite draw out impurities and oil, reducing the appearance of blackheads over time.
Reference: A review in Journal of Drugs in Dermatology supports the use of bentonite clay for its ability to absorb excess oil and reduce blackhead formation.
Source: “The Role of Clay Masks in Dermatology” Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2016.
C. Solution: Retinoids
Just like for pimples, retinoids help prevent the buildup of dead skin cells in pores, reducing blackheads.
Treatment:
Product: Differin Gel (Adapalene 0.1%).
How it works: Retinoids speed up skin turnover and prevent pore blockages, which are the cause of blackheads.
Reference: A review in Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology supports the use of retinoids in both preventing and treating blackheads.
Source: “Adapalene in the treatment of acne vulgaris” Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2017.
D. Solution: Pore Strips (Occasional Use)
Pore strips can provide a temporary solution to remove the surface level of blackheads, but they do not address the root cause (clogged pores).
Treatment:
Product: Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips.
How it works: Pore strips adhere to the blackhead and pull it out temporarily. However, they don’t prevent future blackheads from forming.
Reference: A study published in Dermatologic Therapy cautions that frequent use of pore strips may cause irritation and may not address the underlying issue of blackheads.
Source: “Use of Pore Strips for Acne: A Critical Review” Dermatologic Therapy, 2014.
3. General Solutions for Both Pimples and Blackheads
A. Moisturize
Even acne-prone skin needs moisture. Using a non-comedogenic moisturizer will prevent the skin from becoming too dry, which can lead to an overproduction of oil.
Treatment:
Product: CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion or Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel.
How it works: These products hydrate without clogging pores, helping balance oil production.
Reference: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends moisturizing to maintain skin hydration and balance oil production.
Source: American Academy of Dermatology, “Skin care in acne treatment,” 2017.
B. Consistency Is Key
Acne treatments take time. You may not see results immediately, but most acne treatments need at least 4–6 weeks to show noticeable improvement.
Advice: Stick to your regimen daily and be patient. Over time, you’ll see improvements in both pimples and blackheads.
By Davan 
