Any one who suffers from any form of acne usually has experiences a whitehead or blackhead both having there own unsightly effects on our skin. So what are they exactly and how does each one for? To better understand how to control acne you have to know the composition of a blackheads and whiteheads.

Acne is formed by the sebum (oil) becoming trapped in the skins pores. This mixed with dead shin cells causes the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes to form and multiply. Here is where a blackhead or whitehead is formed and it all depends on the infection which affects the Comedones (small, flesh-colored, white, or dark bumps that give skin a rough texture and are found at the openings of pores).

Whiteheads, which is also, knows as closed comedones, are pores filled with sebum and dead skin cells and have only a microscopic opening to the skins surface. With such small openings, air is unable to penetrate the skins surface and reach the follicle meaning no oxidation of the melanin (or skin pigment). Since there is no oxidation there is any color change so there for it remains white; also the bacteria multiply more causing the infection to be trapped and swell.

Blackheads, also knows as open comedones, are pores filled with sebum and dead skin cells and have am overly large opening to the skins surface. With such large openings, air can easily penetrate the skins surface and reach the follicle oxidizing the melanin. Since oxidation takes place the color changes to black; usually the bacteria does not multiply as much so little to no swelling occurs.

Any of the regular skin care treatments that include a Benzoyl peroxide should be effective in clearing and maintaining acne. If you have trouble finding an acne treatment that works for you consult a dermatologist. In many cases they will prescribe a prescription topical medication (OTC). These acne medications will be applied directly to the effected pore or the entire face helping to eliminate and prevent Blackheads and Whiteheads.

Acne Mechanica is the name of the type of acne you get from skin that has been irritated do to friction or pressure or heat. Things such as tight clothes, back packs, and wearing synthetic clothing are just a few things that can cause this type of acne.

Pressure is the mist common way of getting acne mechanica. People such a soldiers who carry heavy items on there back, athletes who wear head bands, or women whose bra straps are to tight are all common examples of pressure. Any such instance when the skin is tightly covered with cloth and pressurized makes it vulnerable.

Prevention of acne mechanica is easy enough if you remember a few things and take prevention. Avoid too tight or synthetic clothing and try to go with cotton instead. Avoid head bands, elastic waist bands or any other kind of clothing that can cause pressure and irritation to the skin. When you have removed a irritating article of clothing, be sure to keep the irritated area clean. Having a hot shower will open the pores and clean the area. Just like other acne use a mild soap for cleansing to keep the pores clog free.

If you work in a ob that requires you to carry heavy objects on your back such as a solider or a firefighter, once your duties are over make sure to change and cleanse. This consistence will help you to prevent and avoid acne mechanica.

Treatment of Acne mechanica one you have it is for the most part the same as other acne. Any of the products that contain- Benzoyl peroxide, Salicylic Acid, Resorcinol and Sulphur, Alcohol and Acetone, Azelaic Acid, Topical Antibiotics, Topical Retinoids and Nicotinamide usually do the trick but just as other acne you may have to go through a lot of the acne treatments and acne medications before you find what works for you. If the problem persists or worsens, make sure to se a Dermatologist and be prepared to tell her the things that may have caused the breakout so they can help you find the best solution for clearing your acne up.