AHA and BHA
Alpha-hydroxy (AHA) is water-soluble and works to dissolve and exfoliate dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. They are great for restoring moisture and revitalizing dull skin tone, smoothing skin texture, and helping to fade hyperpigmentation.
BHA is oil-soluble and penetrates deep into the pores, dissolving dead skin cells, blackheads, sebum, etc. They are great for treating acne, rosacea, etc. and can help clean out the pores.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid can help treat acne (it can help remove dead skin cells and reduce the buildup of oil causing acne and dark spots), deodorize (it helps clean the skin), and exfoliate the dead skin cells.
The oil-soluble salicylic acid can penetrate through the oil layer on the skin, thin it out and can freely flow on the skin surface, so when you wash your face, it can also be washed off. After thoroughly washing your face, apply Salicylic acid 1-2 times a week on blackheads or the entire face.
Retinoid
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that enhances collagen production (a protein necessary for healthy joints and skin). It penetrates deep into the epidermis layer (the outer protective layer of the skin) to the dermis layer (the middle layer of the skin). It can help unclog pores and reduce blackheads. Retinol is a popular skincare ingredient.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide is water-soluble and cannot be dissolved in oil. It is commonly found in serums, moisturizers, and water-based masks. It works with the natural substances in your skin, thereby helping to visibly minimize large pores, thus reducing the pore-clogging that causes blackheads.
Clay
Basically, it absorbs trapped impurities in the skin. It is a very gentle exfoliant that helps remove dead skin and unclog pores to clean out blackheads and whiteheads.
Mix bentonite clay with equal parts of raw apple cider vinegar and water. It is best to use a non-metal bowl and utensils. Apply this mixture to the face or only on the blackhead areas and let it dry for 5-10 minutes. Remove the clay by rinsing it off with water and apply a moisturizer or aloe vera gel to soothe the skin.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl Peroxide can help kill bacteria and can reduce excess sebum (the oil and wax produced by the body’s sebaceous glands) and dead skin cells that clog pores and help reduce the formation of blackheads or whiteheads.
Benzoyl Peroxide can be found in various skincare products such as acne creams and lotions, facial cleansers and washes, body washes and soaps for acne (as acne can also appear on the back and chest), gels, etc.
In case you have sensitive skin, please consult a dermatologist before using any of these products.
Exploring the Positive Impact of Niacin on Health
Vitamin B3, or Niacin, is an important part of the Vitamin B group that offers various health benefits. These include improved blood circulation and protection against arteriosclerosis. It can be found in many dietary sources, such as liver, chicken, salmon, mushrooms, bread, and potatoes, which all contain high amounts of Vitamin B3.