1. Understanding the Differences
| Type | What It Is | Appearance |
|---|---|---|
| Acne | Inflammatory skin condition (pimples, cysts) | Red, swollen, painful |
| Blackheads | Open pores clogged with oil + dead skin (oxidized) | Small dark/black dots |
| Whiteheads | Closed pores clogged with oil + dead skin | Small white bumps |
2. Basic Skincare Routine
To manage all three, follow a gentle, consistent routine:
Morning & Night:
-
Cleanser – Use a gentle foaming or salicylic acid cleanser.
-
Example: CeraVe Foaming Cleanser, Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
-
-
Toner (optional) – Use a non-alcoholic toner with witch hazel or niacinamide.
-
Treatment – Apply targeted treatments:
-
Salicylic Acid (for blackheads, whiteheads)
-
Benzoyl Peroxide (for acne)
-
Retinoids (for all types, prevents clogging)
-
-
Moisturizer – Always moisturize! Choose non-comedogenic.
-
Example: CeraVe PM, Neutrogena Hydro Boost
-
-
Sunscreen (morning only) – Very important when using active ingredients.
