Overview
Treating blackheads in initial stage is necessary as otherwise they often leave deep scars. Although you should start immediate treatment, do not take a wrong decision of using inappropriate medications, skin care products and acne remedies. First ask some question to yourself about your skin and I hope after it you will be able to choose a suitable product available over the counter without prescription. Firstly, is your skin oily? Do you frequently use make up, do you take balanced diet? Etc.

What is Blackhead?
Blackheads or open comedone are rounded bumps around 2 to 5mm in diameter. They are often black but may be red in color. Blackheads discharges a mixture of blood, white blood cells and bacteria, called pus. Blackheads form as a result of clogged hair follicles while sebum is overproduced due to certain factors including bacterial infection, over production of hormones like testosterone and progesterone, week immune system and dead skin cells that clog hair follicles. When sebum is restricted inside the hair follicle, it exerts pressure on walls of hair follicles and bumps arise. If the bump ruptures, it is called blackhead.

Causes of Blackheads
There are a number of causes of blackheads, clogged hair follicles is one of the fundamental cause. Dead skin cells, hormones, some medications, sebum, dirt, make up, soap's, lotion's and cream's residues, ultra violet rays of sun, bacterial infection, week immune system, lack of nutrients are all contributing factors that clog hair follicles. Whatever the factor may be, it ultimately leads to clogged skin pores. Before starting the treatment, it is better to avoid all possible factors as much as possible.

Blackhead Treatment Options
You have many options from using OTC medications to prescription medications and drugs. But at first, for mild acne breakouts, over the counter acne remedies are more prevalent as compare to prescription medications. No only prescription medications are expensive but also they cause severe side effects. However, in certain circumstances, it is vital to consult dermatologist. Acne cleansers and exfoliators are frequently used remedies. They kills bacteria, remove sloughed off skin cells, dirt and other residues that may clog skin pores. Therefore, using acne cleansers and exfoliators twice a day is a best option but on condition that they are herbal and contains no harsh substances and oils if your skin is oily. Read the label first before purchasing. Most cleansers and exfoliators contains salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. Both these substances are strong for their antibacterial property and exfoliation of dead skin layers. They may cause skin irritation, redness and swelling. Therefore, find a proprietary brand that contains pure plant extracted ingredients.

Use a suitable skin care lotion or cream that contains all essential nutrients necessary for healthy skin. Such lotions provide your skin vitamins, minerals and specific amino acids. Certain brands not only contains these substances but also contains astringents and antibacterial agents and exfoliators. According to many studies, a healthy skin is less prone to develop acne then a skin deprived of nutrients, therefore, use topical skin care supplements and include vegetables and fruits in your diet as well.

Visit out Articles section full of articles and resources about acne and related skin conditions.