Not all acne is the same. Simplistically, acne can be divided into red bumps and blackheads/whiteheads. This division is important because each type is treated differently. Blackheads and whiteheads, known as comedones, can be more numerous on the face and shoulders than red bumps filled with pus. Composed of the same oil, or sebum, that makes a contribution to the production of pimples, blackheads result from a building up of this oil in pores the difference in appearance is the results of the blackhead's exposure to the air, the reaction of which with the oil causes the trademark black colour of these marks. If you are constantly plagued by blackheads, your first line of defense is knowledge. If you know and understand what you are up against, you will be able to take proper steps towards fighting blackheads.

1. A good cleansing routine is one of the best ways to remove blackheads, as it'll help wash away unwanted oil and dead skin particles. A light cleanser is a good selection as it will not dry out the skin excessively ( which results in the production of even more of that nasty sebum ). Mixed with the use of a light exfoliant, which may help remove old epidermal cells, this is all you want to help to keep your skin blackhead free.

2. Salicylic acid is one of the best over-the-counter medications used to treat acne, according to Daniel Kern, founder of Acne.org. Salicylic acid slows the shedding of skin cells inside the hair follicle and helps prevent the pore from clogging with bacteria and sebum. The medication is also known to help break down blackheads.

3. Extract juice of one lemon and mix with equal quantity of rose water. Apply this mixture on the face and let it stay for about half an hour. Wash the face with fresh water. About 15 days application helps cure acne, pimples and reduces blemishes and scars.

4. Making sure you drink 6 to 8 glasses of water each day helps battle blackheads from the inside out, hydrates the body which prevents drying, and it prevents the build up of bacteria and sebum. Since this can happen to anyone, what you choose to eat or drink can play a big part in your situation. Let's look at fast food. Avoiding fast food as much as possible can reduce your intake of sugars that are found in sodas, and starches, such as French fries.

5. Mix together 1 or 2mls each of the following: witch hazel, tea-tree and sweet fennel essential oils, adding essential oil of geranium for women and essential oil of rosewood for men. Mix with 300mls of water. Shake before use, as the oils will float on top of the water during storage. Dab affected areas with cotton wool two or three times a day. The oils will clean and unclog giving antibiotic-like protection to the skin. This is one of the best natural acne treatment.

6. Don't forget to exercise. Exercise? Yes. The more the body moves the more oxygen rotates and circulates in the blood. This produces healing plus provides nutrients to the skin and inflamed areas, keeping skin in good condition.

7. Mix corn flour with egg white and apply on your face. Let is dry completely for 1/2 hour. Dip your hands in warm water and massage your face and wash off. This when repeated regularly gives you a smooth skin. Blend cucumber and make a paste. Apply this as a mask on your face and leave it for 1/2 hour and then rinse. This refreshes your skin and prevents acne.