Whiteheads are form of acne and one of the greatest fears of the beauty - a build-up of oils, serum and dead skin that plugs up your pores. Just like the blackheads, the whiteheads can be also seen in both teenagers and adults.
Whiteheads can be shortly defined as: tiny, pearly, white raised spots formed in the skin where skin cells clog and close a hair follicle (the reason why they are also called closed comedones ). Many people mistake whiteheads for pimples as they both look alike but there is a difference because whiteheads should be removed very carefully.
The exact cause of whiteheads isn’t still known for sure but most of the dermatologists suggest that the whiteheads are caused by the accumulation of hardened sebum (oil) in the pores of the skin. If the skin pore closes up then the bacteria will remain under the skin - it will begin to grow and after a few days a whitehead will be formed.
Whiteheads usually occur on different parts of the face, most commonly around the eyes and on the cheeks. Most of the people also get whiteheads on the chest, neck and forehead. Whiteheads are often accompanied with blackheads, pimples and acne.
TIPS ON HOW TO GET RID OF WHITEHEADS AND HOW TO PREVENT WHITEHEADS
You should never try to remove whiteheads alone at home, never! You should know that whiteheads are different from pimples or blackheads. If you try to squeeze the whitehead you may easily break the skin which will result in permanent, reddish scar.
The best way to prevent the formation of whiteheads is to follow a strict skin care regimen, as follows:
* Clean your face at least twice a day with skincare products that are appropriate for your skin type. Use a facial cleanser that contain salicylic acid or alpha hydroxyl acids as there ingredients help in unclogging the pores.
* Exfoliate your skin regularly - twice or three times a week. Apply the exfoliating products all over your face, using light, circular motions concentration on the problem areas of the face forehead, nose and cheeks. Try to find a gentle exfoliator with small particles it will encourage newer, smoother and healthier skin cells to grow, helping to unclog the pores.
* Even if your skin is oily or mixed you should never forget to apply a moisturizer or a hydrating cream.
* Once a week steam your face for a few minutes to cleanse your skin in deep. Steaming is very important to loosen debris that may be embedded into the skin. When steaming the face you wide the clogged pores and soften the skin in order to cleanse more easily the impurities, the traces of makeup, the dust, the sebaceous secretions as well as the dead skin cells.
* You can also use a comedone remover (a comedone extractor ) tool - a handy device to help keep pores free of blackheads and blemishes. It will remove all clogged dark bumps with trapped sebum, bacteria and excess oils dislodging pore blockages leaving skin clear and smooth. This tool should be used immediately after steaming the face.
If you have just a small number of whiteheads don’t do anything - leave them the way they are because sometimes whiteheads go away by themselves in a few days.
You should never try to squeeze the whitehead alone; you had better go to the nearest beauty parlor and consult a beautician or a dermatologist.
The cosmetologists are trained to remove whiteheads and the other forms of acne flawlessly. They use special methods and tools to extract the whiteheads without a risk of skin infections and scarring.
* The first thing the cosmetologist will do is to steam your face - to widen the clogged pores and to soften the skin in order to cleanse more easily the impurities. After steaming it will be more easily to remove the comedones /blackheads, whiteheads/ and the little pimples.
* Then she / he will use a sterilized needle to gently prick the tip of the whitehead with the needle. A gentle pressure will be needed to ease out the pus. Basically this is to most common way used by the dermatologist and the beauticians to remove the whiteheads. The method resembles the way a pimple is popped but a higher degree of attention is needed.
Useful Tips:
* Remember: whiteheads should be extracted by an experienced esthetician or dermatologist.
* To prevent whiteheads from forming in the first place, you should use a mild facial cleanser that is oil-free and wash your face at least twice a day.
* Never squeeze or pick at a pimple as doing so may spread the inflammation and leave an ugly red scar behind.
* Use a face cream or moisturizer containing salicylic acid.
* Always look for antibacterial skin care and cosmetic products.
* Use skin care products with benzyl peroxide, salicylic acid or AHAs.
* It’s essential to keep your skin clean all the time in order to prevent the formation of whiteheads.
* Drink plenty of water to keep your skin and body hydrated and to remove the toxins from your skin.
* Always apply a toner after cleansing your face in the morning and in the evening to close the pores.
* Remember: there is a difference between a blackhead and a whitehead, blackheads are partly blocked pores and the fully blocked pores are called whiteheads.
* Never try to remove whiteheads at home - this may lead to serious skin infections and permanent scarring.
* Remember: usually the whiteheads go away by themselves in a few days.
* Never forget to remove your makeup in the evening; otherwise this may clog the pores resulting in blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and rash appearance.
* Never use harsh facial cleansers, soaps or lotions.
* Always look for noncomedogenic and nonacnegenic skin care and makeup products.
* Like the blackheads, the whiteheads can be seen on the areas around the face, especially around the nose, eyes, cheeks and forehead.
* Never use oil-based makeup precuts as they may contribute to the buildup of oil in the follicles.
* Always apply moisturizer after washing your face.
* Don’t forget to exfoliate your skin once or twice a week with a mild exfoliator to remove the dead skin cells.
* Remember: the appearance of your skin is influenced mainly by your skin care routine.
* Always wear a sunscreen or sunblock with SPF at least 15, even during the winter months to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
* Avoid touching your face with dirty hands - you can transform bacteria and cause inflammation.
* Remember: the best way to prevent whiteheads is to keep your skin clean and well moisturized all the time.
* Regular facials can help prevent whiteheads because they will keep your pores clean.
* Do a cleansing face mask once or twice a week.
Finding the right shade for your eye shadows isn’t always as easy as it seems. It’s true that every season has its best shades but it doesn’t always suits everyone. The appropriate shade of the eyeshadows should be considered carefully with a few factors: the color of your clothes, your natural skin tone, the color of your hair and of course with the color of your eyes.
The perfect eyeshadow colors for blue eyes
The best shades for those women with blue eyes are: orange, pink, blue, brown, violet, white, toffee, caramel and gold, silver
If you add a bit of a peachy blush and a lighter lip gloss the effect will be glamorous.
If your eyes are blue you should avoid applying eye shadows with green or red hues.
The perfect eyeshadows shades for green eyes
If your eyes are green your best choice will be eyeshadows in peachy or pinky shades.
The best shades for green eyes: copper, burgundy, fuchsia, rust shades as well as light golds, apricot, yellow greens, deep greens, purples, plums, and lavender shades.
To achieve the best look use lipstick in darker shades or deep red. Avoid applying eyeshadows in blue shades and don’t forget to emphasize your eyes with a brown eyeliner and black mascara.
The perfect eyeshadows shades for brown eyes
Those women with brown eyes are lucky - they can wear almost all shades.
The best shades for brown eyes: beige, toffee, fawn, chocolate, white, dark brown
If your eyes are brown you should highlight them with black or brown eye pencil or liquid eyeliner.
The best way to make your eye shadows stay put on for longer is applying an eyeshadow base. It will stop your shadows from smudging, streaking and creasing by increasing the lasting-power of your shadows. A good eyeshadow base will not only prevent your shadows from creasing but it will also aid in blending the eyeshadows to perfection.The base will intensify your shadow and make it stay put on for longer.
Useful Beauty Tips:
* Don’t be afraid to experiment with your eye shadow color.
* Never apply eye shadow if there is an infection present, if your eyes are watery or if they are feeling sensitive.
* If your eyes are blue your best choice will be a darker shade than your eye color as it will make your eyes really blue.
* Before applying your eye makeup comb your brows up and across with a special brow brush or with the help of a toothbrush.
* Remember the golden rule: if you accentuate your eyes keep your lips as natural as possible and vice versa.
* If you are going to use powder eye shadows apply them with the help of a damp makeup brush.
* Blend the colors very carefully using a soft, tapered eyeshadow brush.
* Always use eyeshadows of good quality as they stay for longer, do not crease, flake or fade.
* Always remove your makeup in the evening with a mild makeup remover.
* Eye shadows come in different types, textures and shades. There are liquid eyeshadows, eye shadow pencil, cream shadows, loose and pressed powder eye shadows.
Recommended anti-dandruff products:
* Hair dandruff how to control it nizoral anti dandruff shampoo hairNizoral Anti –
Dandruff Shampoo ($11.50) - a prescription shampoo for dandruff causing conditions like seborrhea, as well as for the treatment of psoriasis for several years now. Controls the flaking, scaling, and itching associated with dandruff. Nizoral shampoo is available in an OTC 1% strength, ideal for allowing individuals to take control of their treatment, potentially circumventing the need for some prescription items. Use twice a week to control a leading cause of dandruff and be dandruff-free.
* Hair dandruff how to control it rene furterer anti dandruff shamppp hair
Rene Furterer Anti-Dandruff Shampoo ($24) - Melaleuca Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for greasy dandruff eliminates dandruff and reduces itchiness. Curbicia extract regulates sebum secretions. Helps the effects of the treatment gel to last longer
* Hair dandruff how to control it rene furterer anti dandruff gel hair
Rene Furterer Melaleuca Anti Dandruff Gel ($24.50) - cleanses the scalp and perfectly removes oily dandruff, thanks to the essential oil of Melaleuca and Pyrithione Zinc. It helps regulate oil production and calm itching.
* Hair dandruff how to control it neutrogena anti dandruff shampoo hairNeutrogena T/Gel Dandruff Shampoo ($18) – this anti-dandruff shampoo provides everyday dandruff control. Clinically proven dandruff protection while gentle on hair. This fresh-scented shampoo is enriched with Vitamin E. Contains 1% pyrithione zinc to relieve itching and flaking, Vitamin E to moisturize hair and scalp, and wheat proteins to protect hair. Effectively fights dandruff and is gentle enough for daily use
* Hair dandruff how to control it headshoulders andti dandruff shampoo hairHead & Shoulders Intensive Solutions Seborrheic Dermatitis & Dandruff Shampoo for Dry/Damaged Hair ($15) – this anti-dandruff shampoo helps prevent recurrence of flaking and itching associated with dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Treats and helps prevent seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff and scalp-related problems: itching; flaking; dryness; irritation; redness. With conditioning technology protects hair against damage.
* Hair dandruff how to control it ionil anti dandruff shampoo hairIonil-T Therapeutic 1% Coal Tar Shampoo ($22.50) - Helps eliminate dandruff problems due to seborrhea and psoriasis. Tar helps reduce the production of skin cells, giving you a healthier looking scalp. Reduces itching and flaking. Contains the equivalent of 1% Coal Tar. For best results use at least twice a week or as directed by a physician.
* Hair dandruff how to control it kenra anti dandruff shampoo hair Kenra Dandruff Shampoo ($12) - medicated anti-dandruff shampoo that relieves itching and flaking of the scalp associated with seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. This ultra-gentle formula leaves hair silky and manageable, while helping to prevent further dandruff development. The shampoo treats seborrhea and other skin and scalp conditions and soothes dry, itchy and irritated scalp.
Dandruff is the most widespread hair problem especially among men. If you ever had dandruff, also known as scurf, you know what it’s like – irritated scalp and itches, flaky skin and constant wondering whether to wear black or not. Many people err to believe that dandruff is caused by dry skin, frequent head washing or poor hygiene. These popular myths can lead to ineffective and often – inappropriate treatment and even worsen the situation.
Dandruff has a negative impact on one’s self esteem, and people suffering from that condition are usually more sensitive about their appearance than the rest.
What causes dandruff?
Dandruff is caused by a type of fungus – Pityrosporum ovale. Upon a normal organism state is does not cause any problems.
However when the skin pH balance in the hairy part of the head is broken and the environment is alkalized, the fungus starts to breed faster and due to the more frequent change of skin cells it leads to peeling.
The cause of the accelerated fungus growth has not been found, but the most probable causes are increased fat secretion by the organism, hormonal disbalance, stress, different ill-conditions of the nervous system, suppressed immune system, oversensitivity to the fungus itself or even inherited susceptibility to dandruff. In rare cases dandruff can be a manifestation of an allergic reaction to some of the chemicals in hair gels, hair sprays, hair oils or other hair products.
Very few people know that there are two forms of dandruff – external and internal. External dandruff is caused by excessive use of hair products - sprays and gels, improper use of hair-coloring products, excessive use of hair curlers or hair straighteners, cold weather, dry indoor heating, stress, infrequent shampooing of the hair or inadequate rinsing of the scalp. Internal dandruff can be caused by hormonal imbalance, emotional stress, poor health, poor hygiene, allergy to some foods, lack of rest, excessive consumption of sugar, fat and starch and hereditary predisposition.
Even though there is a lot more to be found about dandruff, what is unquestionably known about it is that it is a medical, rather than a cosmetic problem.
What are the symptoms of dandruff?
* white, oily flakes of dead skin
* itchy, scaling scalp
* too dry or too oily hair
* greasy skin covered with flaky white, or yellow scales.
How to treat dandruff?
In most cases it is not necessary to consult the presence of dandruff with a physician. Dandruff is a chronic condition which can almost always be controlled, even though it requires patience and persistence.
It is always recommended to use a special medical shampoo which can be found in your local pharmacy.
There are several types of commercially available shampoos, containing active dandruff fighting ingredients. However there are not enough convincing researches related to them so they are not registered as medical products, but as cosmetic shampoos.
The most anti-dandruff products contain active ingredients such as: Sodium bicarbonate, Zinc pyrithione , Salicylic acid , Selenium sulfide, Tea tree oil , Tar.
The most effective substance, and most recommended by dermatologists worldwide, is ketoconazole – also known as Nizoral (most often in 2% concentration) which is known in the area of medicine with its wide specter efficiency in treatment and prevention of seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, lichen planus and other fungus skin diseases.
The effect of ketoconazole has been repeatedly and thoroughly researched. Researches of its efficiency against different types of fungus show that ketokonasol breaks the fungus cell wall, which leads to its extermination.
What should I use?
Ketosal could be the answer. It is a medical shampoo with 2% content of ketokonasol that can keep your dandruff under control, so you won’t be constantly checking on your shoulders. Ketosal can stop the fungus breeding cycle.
Once the fungus is under control – so is your dandruff. Besides it has all the benefits of a “regular” luxurious shampoo – nice fragrance, silk sensation in your hand and washes your hair perfectly.
Ketosal also has no negative impact on dyed, white or treated hair. Use it twice weekly to treat your hear and your hair will be shiny, easy to shape, vigorous and with volume. And of course – dandruff free!
What else do you need to know?
Remember: Dandruff is due to the excessive shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp.
Remember: sometimes dandruff may be a symptom of seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis, fungal infection.
Remember: When using anti-dandruff shampoo be sure to leave the shampoo on for at least five minutes — this allows the ingredients time to work.
Remember: In general, mild scaling can often be helped by daily cleansing with a gentle shampoo to reduce oiliness and cell buildup.
Remember: Sometimes scaling can occur anywhere on the scalp, in the hair, on the eyebrows, the beard and can spread to the neck and shoulders.
If your dandruff is mild, wash your hair regularly to remove the excess flakes.
When you apply the shampoo, massage your scalp with your fingers to remove dead skin and improve blood circulation.
Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially in mid-day – ultraviolet rays can damage your hair.
Always wash your hair with clean water after you have been to the pool or in a natural basin with contaminated water, even the sea.
A diet that provides enough zinc, vitamins and minerals, and essential fatty acid may help prevent dandruff.
Acne is a skin condition characterized by plugged pores, inflamed pimples and deeper lumps that can appear on the face, neck, chest, back and shoulders. The disorder is most common throughout the teenage years when appearance is of particular importance. Acne is rarely a serious medical condition, but it often causes emotional distress and can be upsetting to the patient.
The reason acne occurs is the sensitivity of the body towards the increased level of the male hormone testosterone, which is present in both males and females. This stimulates the oil (sebaceous) glands of the skin to enlarge and produce and excess amount of sebum (oil) – natural substance, which lubricates and protects the skin.
At the same time, acne occurs when hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells that dissociate from the inside surface of the sebaceous glands. The sebum produced by these glands accumulates with the dead skin cells in the follicle and solidify as a soft plug. This plug may cause the follicle to bulge and produce a whitehead or it may be open to the surface and darken, causing a “blackhead”. The sebum stimulates bacteria, which live on everyone’s skin and generally cause no problems, to multiply and cause surrounding tissues to become inflamed. Inflammation near the skin’s surface produces a pustule; deeper inflammation results in a papule (pimple); deeper blockages and inflammations inside follicles produce lumps beneath the surface of the skin called cysts.
Certain medications, such as oral contraceptives, antibiotics and corticosteroids can aggravate the condition of the acne. For some women, acne can be an indication of the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or hormonal imbalance, which can lead to abnormal menstrual periods, sterility, excess hair-growth and overweight.
How to avoid scaring or other damage to the skin
Don’t pick or squeeze blemishes as this might cause infection or scarring. Cleanse the skin with a soft cotton pad, dipped in herbal infusion or ethereal oils. Touch your skin only if your hands are clean.
PROPHYLACTICS
You can avoid or control acne with good basic skin care and the following self-care techniques:
Wash problem areas with a mild cleansing bar or a gentle lotion that doesn’t dry the skin. Of the many available brands, oil-free, water-based moisturizers are generally a better choice.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays in moderation are good for your skin as they can cure acne. However, keep in mind that during summer it is recommended that you avoid exposure to the sun in the period 10:00AM – 15:00PM.
Carefully choose your skin products – avoid oily or greasy sunscreens, hair-styling products or skin products that contain benzoyl peroxide. Ensure that the products are labeled “noncomedogenic” or “water-based”.
Try to decrease general sweating – don’t stay in places that are too hot and wear fabrics that allow the skin to “breathe”.
Avoid consuming too much salt with your food. Salt causes the cells to loose water, which can aggravate the condition of the acne.
Apply tea tree oil directly on the blemishes on a daily basis. If the oil is too concentrated, you can dissolve it in water.
Keep your hair clean and off your face. Also avoid resting your hands or objects on your face. Some hair products such as hair-gel and hair-spray can be the reason for the condition in specific facial areas (the forehead). Stop using them for a couple of weeks to see how it affects the acne.
TREATMENT
Aromatherapy: Some ethereal oils control the production of sebum. Amongst them are the Cedar Cone oil (not recommended during pregnancy) and the Atlantic White Cedar (should be avoided during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy). Lavender and geranium oils have antiseptic and healing qualities, while those of camomile and bergamot reduce inflammation. Try the following procedures:
Add 2 drops of Cedar Cone and 2 drops of Atlantic White Cedar oil in a glass of water. Apply the mixture on the skin every 2 hours.
Add 2 drops of Juniper oil to a table-spoon of Jojoba or Sweet Almond oil and stir. Apply directly on the problematic skin areas.
Add 2 drops of Bergamot and 2 drops of Atlantic White Cedar to 5 tea-spoons of Jojoba oil. Add the same mixture of oils to a face-cleansing lotion. Apply the oil mixture in the evening and the lotion – in the morning.
ACNE AND DIET
It is proven that acne is not caused by foods. However, it would be wise to keep a diary of the consumed foods throughout the day to determine whether some of them can cause acne.
Some women experience acne if eating chocolate just before their menstrual period.
Generally people who suffer from acne have less vitamin A in their blood, which is why foods rich in vitamin A and ?-Carotin are highly recommended. However, any vitamin intake should be closely monitored by a health care specialist.
HERBAL THERAPY
Mix dried roots from Dandelion, Burdock, Nettle, Yarrow and Echinacea and prepare a potion. Drink 1 glass once or twice a day.
Boil up 2-3 tea-spoons dried basil in a glass of water. Cool the mixture and apply with a cotton pad on clean skin.
Cleanse your skin once a day using a Steam bath: keep your face for about 5-10 minutes covered with a towel and above a bowl filled with hot water. Afterwards dry your skin and apply Rosewater, Black Elder water, Camomile extract or Marigold tea. A good idea is to add a couple of drops of Marigold infusion into the hot water.
Dandelion, Burdock, Yarrow and Echinacea roots cure acne by reducing and eliminating the skin bacteria.
WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL HELP
In case of unresponsive or severe acne or acne that is believed to be a result of an ongoing medical treatment, it is essential that you consult a primary-care physician or a dermatologist.
