How to Get Rid of Blackheads - Neutrogena Acne Proofing Scrub

Understanding Blackheads and How to Get Rid of Them

Blackheads are a common skin concern for many people. They occur when dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria clog up a pore. This causes the pore to appear as a black, bumpy spot on the surface of the skin, most often in areas like the nose, chin, and forehead.

Blackheads form when a pore becomes congested with excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. The dead skin cells and oil collect in the pore, oxidize, and turn black when they are exposed to air. Meanwhile, the bacteria cause mild inflammation. So while blackheads arent acne in the clinical sense, they are a type of comedone like whiteheads.

What Causes Blackheads?

There are a few key factors that cause blackheads to form:

• Excess oil production - When oil glands are overactive, they produce too much sebum. This provides more material for blackheads.
• Hormones - Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, and perimenopause can increase oil production.
• Genetics - Some people are just prone to blackheads due to hereditary factors.
• Skin cell buildup - Dead skin cells that don't properly slough off can get stuck in pores.
• Bacteria - Excess Cutibacterium acnes bacteria can colonize pores and prompt inflammation.
• Medications - Certain medicines like corticosteroids, lithium, anticonvulsants, or androgens can lead to blackheads.
• Friction - Rubbing or pressure on the skin from clothing, backpacks, helmets, etc. can worsen blackheads.

So in summary, blackheads occur when a pore gets clogged up with too much oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. Hormonal fluctuations, genetics, and certain medications also make you more prone to developing blackheads across the forehead, nose, and chin area.

How to Get Rid of Blackheads

While blackheads can be pesky, there are many ways to clear them up. Here are some dermatologist-recommended methods to get rid of blackheads for good:

1. Use Over-the-Counter Acne Medications

Look for acne products that contain ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids like adapalene. These ingredients will help:

• Dissolve excess oil
• Slough off dead skin cells
• Kill acne-causing bacteria
• Promote faster skin cell turnover

Using medicated cleansers, toners, creams, and spot treatments can prevent new blackheads while clearing current ones. Just be patient, as it can take 4-6 weeks to see significant results. Some of the best drugstore options include:

• Clean & Clear Continuous Control Acne Cleanser
• Differin Daily Deep Cleanser
• La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Face Wash
• Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Daily Leave-On Mask
• Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10 Acne Medication

2. Try At-Home Masks and Scrubs

Certain DIY treatments can also help dissolve blackheads when used properly 1-2 times per week. Look for masks and scrubs with these ingredients:

• Bentonite clay - Absorbs oil and pulls out impurities from the skin
• Activated charcoal - Works like a magnet to extract blackheads
• Glycolic acid - Chemical exfoliant that dissolves the "glue" holding dead skin cells together
• Salicylic acid - Unclogs pores by breaking up dead skin cells
• Sulfur - Kills p.acnes bacteria to help control blackheads
• Tea tree oil - Natural antibacterial and antimicrobial to penetrate pores

Some effective, affordable options include:

• Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay
• Bior Baking Soda Cleansing Scrub
• Formula 10.0.6 Pores Be Pure Skin-Clarifying Mask
• Neutrogena Blackhead Eliminating Daily Scrub
• Clean & Clear Blackhead Eraser Scrub

3. Extract Blackheads the Right Way

While tempting, you should never squeeze or pick at blackheads. This can damage the pores and lead to infections or scarring. However, you can extract blackheads safely at home with these tips:

• Steam your skin first - Take a hot shower or hold a warm washcloth over the area for a few minutes to open up the pores.
• Use a comedone extractor tool - These tools help pop out blackheads with gentle, even pressure.
• Disinfect the area - Apply rubbing alcohol before and after extracting blackheads.
• Be very gentle - Never force out a blackhead that won't budge easily.
• Apply a treatment after - Using a clay mask, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid product after extracting can help prevent new blackheads.

Extractor tools allow you to target blackheads one at a time with specialized metal or plastic loops. Just be sure to sterilize the tool and your skin first.

4. Get Regular Facials

Visiting an esthetician or dermatologist for regular facials and extractions can help clear up stubborn blackheads. Professionals use deep pore cleansing methods and high-grade extraction tools you can't get at home. Going monthly can remove current blackheads and prevent new ones from forming.

Common facials like oxygen treatments, enzyme facials, microdermabrasion, and hydrofacials all help target congested pores and blackheads. Extractions and chemical peels help remove dead skin and oil buildup even further.

5. Take Oral Medication

For recurring blackheads not resolved by over-the-counter methods, your dermatologist may prescribe oral acne medication. Oral antibiotics like doxycycline, minocycline, or erythromycin can reduce p. acnes bacteria and inflammation. Low doses of oral isotretinoin are another option for severe or stubborn blackheads.

Talk to your dermatologist about the pros and cons of these oral medications versus topical treatments for blackheads. Side effects are more common with oral prescription options.

How to Prevent Blackheads

Preventing new blackheads from forming is just as important as clearing existing ones. Try these everyday steps to keep your pores clean and blackhead-free:

• Wash your face twice daily - Use a gentle cleanser in the morning and at night. Avoid harsh scrubs.
• Use oil-free skincare - Any moisturizers, sunscreens, and makeup should be labeled non-comedogenic or oil-free.
• Avoid heavy makeup - Stick to light, breathable makeup that won't congest pores.
• Don't touch your face - Avoid rubbing, picking, or touching the areas prone to blackheads.
• Shampoo regularly - Keep hair oils and products from transferring onto your skin.
• Watch what touches your face - Change your pillowcase frequently and clean your phone.
• Use acne products daily - Whether it's salicylic acid cleanser or benzoyl peroxide cream, use something medicated daily.
• Exfoliate 2-3 times a week - Use scrubs with hydroxy acids or physical exfoliants like jojoba beads to unclog pores.
• Shave carefully - Use shaving cream and sharp razors to avoid irritation around blackhead-prone areas.

Making these simple skincare and grooming adjustments can go a long way towards preventing new blackheads from forming as older ones clear up.

When to See a Dermatologist

Most blackheads can be managed using over-the-counter products and home treatments. But if you have severe or persistent blackheads that aren't getting better after 2-3 months of daily care, see a board-certified dermatologist.

A dermatologist can help identify any underlying causes and provide prescription-strength treatments. They may recommend:

• Prescription retinoids like tretinoin or tazarotene
• Dapsone gel
• Oral antibiotics
• Oral isotretinoin
• Photodynamic therapy
• Chemical peels
• Laser resurfacing treatment

Medical procedures like steroid injections or surgical extraction may be an option for extremely stubborn blackheads not responsive to other treatments. Your dermatologist can advise which options are best based on a full skin evaluation.

It's also a good idea to see a dermatologist if your blackheads are painful, bleeding, or show signs of infection like honey-colored crusting or warm, reddened skin. This could indicate a deeper problem like cystic acne.

Using Neutrogena Acne Proofing Scrub to Help Clear Blackheads

The Neutrogena Acne Proofing line is specially formulated to treat acne and keep breakouts under control. The Acne Proofing Daily Scrub in particular can help remove blackheads and prevent new ones from forming.

Key Ingredients in Neutrogena Acne Proofing Scrub

Here are the key active ingredients that make the Neutrogena Acne Proofing Daily Scrub effective:

• Salicylic Acid 2% - This beta hydroxy acid penetrates pores to dissolve oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria inside.
• Silica - Tiny silica beads provide gentle exfoliation to slough off dead skin on the surface.
• Glycolic Acid - An alpha hydroxy acid that breaks down the "glue" between skin cells to reveal clearer skin.
• Vitamin C and Glucose Complex - Helps control excess oil and deliver brighter, more even looking skin over time.

Together, these ingredients are clinically proven to unclog pores, smooth rough skin texture, and clear up breakouts including blackheads. The 2% salicylic acid concentration is optimal for clearing congested pores without irritation.

How to Use Neutrogena Acne Proofing Scrub

Use the Neutrogena Acne Proofing Daily Scrub in your morning or evening routine once per day. Here are some tips for getting the most out of this blackhead-clearing scrub:

• Start with clean, dry skin then wet your face with lukewarm water before applying the scrub.
• Scoop out a dime-sized amount and gently massage over any blackhead-prone areas using circular motions.
• Focus on the nose, chin, forehead and any other congested areas for about 30 seconds each.
• Rinse off thoroughly then pat dry.
• Follow with an acne spot treatment if needed, then oil-free moisturizer and sunscreen in the mornings.
• For best results, use daily and avoid picking or squeezing blackheads.

The Neutrogena Acne Proofing Scrub is gentle enough to use once per day. Make sure to rinse it off thoroughly before applying any leave-on acne medications to avoid irritation. Use it consistently for at least 4-6 weeks to see significant blackhead clearing.

Benefits of Using Neutrogena Acne Proofing Scrub

Here are the main perks of using the Neutrogena Acne Proofing Daily Scrub to get rid of pesky blackheads:

• Medicated formula - Contains acne-fighting salicylic acid and glycolic acid to penetrate pores.
• Physical and chemical exfoliation - Salicylic acid dissolves inside pores while silica beads buff away dead skin on the surface.
• Clears acne and blackheads - In a clinical study, 88% of users saw fewer blackheads in just 1 week.
• Smooth roughness and texture - Both hydroxy acids smooth bumpy skin texture.
• Oil control - Helps soak up excess oil leading to clogged pores and blackheads.
• Brightens complexion - The vitamin C complex evens out skin tone.
• No microbeads - Uses smooth mineral silica instead of plastic microbeads.
• Gentle daily use - Can be used once per day without over-drying or irritation.

In addition to clearing and preventing blackheads, the Neutrogena Acne Proofing Scrub improves skin texture, brightens complexion, and reduces acne breakouts. The 2% salicylic acid concentration is ideal for daily use.

Where to Buy Neutrogena Acne Proofing Scrub

The Neutrogena Acne Proofing Daily Scrub is available at most drugstores, grocery stores, and retailers that sell skincare products. It typically costs between $7-$12 USD for a 4- to 6-ounce tube depending on the location.

Here are some places where you can find the Neutrogena Acne Proofing Daily Scrub:

• Walmart
• Target
• CVS Pharmacy
• Walgreens
• Rite Aid
• Ulta
• Amazon

You can also purchase it directly from the Neutrogena website. Buying online may allow you to find better deals on multi-packs or bundles. Make sure to check the Neutrogena site for coupons and promotions as well.

Conclusion

Blackheads are a common type of acne that happen when dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria get trapped inside pores. They form as small black bumps commonly on the nose, chin, and forehead area.

Proper skincare and acne products can help clear and prevent blackheads. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid, retinoids, and hydroxy acids to penetrate into clogged pores. You can also try at-home masks and scrubs or get regular facials.

The Neutrogena Acne Proofing Daily Scrub combines salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and mineral exfoliants to target blackheads and acne. Using this medicated, pore-clearing scrub daily helps minimize blackheads within just 1 week of use. It also smooths skin texture, brightens tone, and controls excess oil.

With consistent use of acne-fighting skincare products like the Neutrogena Acne Proofing Scrub, you can successfully clear out existing blackheads and stop new ones from forming.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.