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The simplest way to
keep the pores clear is to exfoliate regularly, followed by a
product which will help peel away blackheads. Look for medicated
products containing resorcinol, salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
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Keep your hair away
from your face. Greasy hair and skin go together, and hair can
spread infection.
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Sunshine or
ultra-violet light encourages skin peeling, and so helps to clear
blocked pores. So sunbathing or use of sun-beds in moderation can be
helpful.
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To squeeze or not to
squeeze? If blackheads look ready to pop out, you could try removing
them gently by using a blackhead extractor. This is a neat little
instrument with a hole at one end, available from chemists. Pressure
around the blackhead helps it to pop out through the hole.
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Otherwise use your
fingers. Steam your face first to soften both the skin and the
material blocking the pores. Then wrap the fingers in tissues and
gently roll against either side of the blackhead. If it won't budge
easily, leave well alone, as too much pressure will bruise and break
the skin, making your face red and blotchy for days to come, and
possibly leaving tiny broken veins. Finish by applying a medicated
cream to the empty pore.
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Only ever squeeze a
spot with a definite head that looks about to burst - pressure on an
unready infected spot spreads bacteria below the skin's surface,
infecting the surrounding tissue. Bad spots need a doctor's advice,
and he may suggest antibiotic or even hormone therapy.
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Whiteheads are plugs
of sebum under the skin which are cysts in sebaceous or sweat
glands. You can treat these yourself by pricking with a sterile
needle (dip in boiling water) and squeezing out. Then apply
antiseptic cream. If in doubt, seek professional treatment
Please
