We checked out the ym.com message boards and discovered a ton of questions from you about how to handle acne, blemishes, and oily skin. One quick call to dermatologist Dr. Diane Berson later, and your skin questions are answered.
I have so many blackheads all over my face! I've tried everything to get rid of them but nothing works. Do you have any tips?
— dancin_babe_11
Go to your pharmacy and ask for a cleanser and toner that contain salicylic acid, which loosens blackheads. You should be able to purchase products over the counter. If this doesn't help, a dermatologist can prescribe retinoids that are even more effective in unblocking pores. Remember, never try to remove your own blackheads by squeezing them. You may cause them to become inflamed and a pimple will develop.
My face is always shiny and I don't know what to do. I put makeup on, but this only makes it worse because it makes my pimples itch. Is it because I have oily skin that my face is always shiny, especially where I break out?
— Liloangel
Cleansers and toners that contain salicylic or glycolic acid will help to remove surface oils from your skin. Unfortunately, they won't decrease oil production, but a dermatologist can prescribe oral medication to help with this. You don't have to stop wearing makeup, but choose an oil-free or powder foundation. Try using a clay mask twice a week to absorb excess oil. Lastly, invest in some blotting papers, like Clean and Clear Oil-Absorbing Sheets, $5, which soak up oil from your skin and can be used as often as necessary throughout the day. That's a much better option than reapplying makeup, which can lead to a cakey build-up.
I have these little bumps all over my cheeks. I've tried everything to get rid of them. They're not pimples because they just don't go away. It's kind of like chicken skin on my face...
— drummer gurlca
This condition is actually called keratosis pilaris, but is often referred to as "chicken skin." It usually develops on cheeks, outer arms and thighs, can be found in people with a personal or family history of eczema and often gets worse in the cold, dry weather of winter. You can usually treat this skin condition with a moisturizer that contains alpha hydroxy acid. Try Eucerin Plus lotion, which is available over the counter at your pharmacy. Apply it twice a day and you should see an improvement in a couple of weeks.
If symptoms persist, or you have other skin questions, visit your regular doctor, who can refer you to a dermatologist in your area.
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