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1. MaSkinDerm
   February 23rd, 2011 - 00:09

   I have answer similar questions about oiliness, blackheads, pimples elsewhere and got best answer. Check them out and consider my methods. Understand this: your blackheads can get improvement over time with the right products (see my recommendations on the other links). BUT, if your oil glands are hyperactive, they may be of little use because you produce more oils than the control amount of products you leave on your skin. You have been warned!

   I will answer your skin tone question here.

   Hyperpigmentation/Skin Discoloration/etc

   KEY product: exfoliant, melanin-inhibitor, and SUNSCREEN.

   Overview: Cleanse  Exfoliate  Melanin-inhibitor  Moisturizer (optional)  Sunscreen.

   You need a gentle cleanser that is free of harsh detergent or irritants that may make your pigment problems worst.

   —

   Exfoliation is important because it unglues the dead skin cells on the surface of skin, bringing up the damaged discolored skin cells to the surface. There is research showing that exfoliant glycolic acid and lactic acid play a role in inhibiting melanin production.

   For Normal to Oily skin, try Neutrogena Acne Stress Control 3-in-1 Hydrating Acne Treatment with 2% salicylic acid

   For Normal to Dry skin, try Alpha Hydrox AHA Enhanced Lotion with 10% glycolic acid.

   —

   For some people, it can take a long time for hyperpigmentation to go away. That is why you want to use a product with one or a combination of melanin-inhibitor (or skin lighteners) to facilitate the fading of that discoloration. Hand down the gold standard for melasma or any stubborn hyperpigmentation problem is hydroquinone. Hydroquinone inhibits the activity of tyrosinase, the rate-limiting enzyme of melanin production, and by increasing the cytotoxicity of melanocytes (melanin-producing cells). Hydroquinone is sold at 2% for over the counter and 4% + for prescription at the doctor’s office. Melanogensis is a complex topic, so I doubt it is appropriate for a Yahoo Answers where concise and non-science reader friendly answers are preferred. Now, you may have heard some scary things about this ingredient, read the articles I provided below. Other melanin-inhibitors also works, but not as impressive (as research indicates) as hydroquinone. They are Vitamin C, niacinamide, soy, arbutin (converts to hydroquinone), kojic acid, to name a few. If you are sensitive to hydroquinone, then the other melanin-inhibitor are your alternatives.

   For Normal to Oily/Combination Skin Type, try Skin Effects by Dr. Jeffrey Dover Flawless Effects Advanced Brightening Complex with 2% hydroquinone and kojic acid OR Paula’s Choice RESIST Clearly Remarkable Skin Lightening Gel with 2% hydroquinone + 2% salicylic acid. If you get the second one, you do not need an extra exfoliant.

   For Normal to Dry Skin Type, try Ambi Fade Cream, Normal with 2% hydroquinone OR Alpha Hydrox Spot Light Targeted Skin Lightener with 2% hydroquinone + 10% glycolic acid. If you get the second one, you do not need an extra exfoliant.

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   Sunscreen is absolutely important for melasma affect persons. Your efforts in treating melasma or any other type of pigmentation will be in vain if you do not wear sunscreen. The sun absolutely makes melasma worst. You need to find a well-formulated board spectrum sunscreen and reapply after perspiring and/or swimming. Avoid sunlight as much as possible; avoid the sun from 10AM-4 PM if you can. Wear a wide brim hat and long sleeves.

   Result can be achieve at least 2 months (if not more for pigment problems) with PATIENCE AND COMPLIANCE. If you discoloration persists and is non-responsive to these methods, you can visit a board-certified dermatologist for other options such as prescription Tri-Luma. Or, you can get a series of chemical peels or lasers. These options are pricey.

   Best wishes
2. Lalala Lalala
   February 23rd, 2011 - 00:09

   2 words.
   DRINK WATER! (it works!)

   answer mine!:D

   http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=Ao_btndADO.swSoWzdkS1IHty6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20110216181327AAMERn5
3. Emma
   February 23rd, 2011 - 00:09

   To control the oiliness in your skin, use face wash for oily skin types + ones that fight acne. Blackheads are formed because of dead skin and dirt in clogged pores so in addition to washing your face with a face wash that control oil, you have exfoliate your skin once a week to get rid of dead skin cells. Don’t forget to moisturize at the end.

   For skin tone, there are always bleaching products out there but considering that you have blemishes, i would say save that for later after your pimples are gone. Bleaching products can be quite harsh on your skin especially when your pore are vulnerable right now. Put on sunblock for now to prevent further tanning from the sun.

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