What is a good over-the-counter solution to blackheads?

Really depressing blackheads!?

• I have blackheads all over my nose, chin and forehead :'( I haven't gone out of the house without make-up for years and it makes me really self-conscious. I'm 17 but my parents said that they would pay for an acid peel or some sort of treatment for my 18th birthday. Apart from the blackheads my skin is relatively clear. I eat well and stay healthy. I wash my face in the morning, evening and take my makeup off whenever I don't need it on, I use avene gel for oily skin. I then use the cleanser from avene as well. I use lerosett moisturiser and once or twice a week I use a facemask (e.g. lerosett clay mask) I also occasionally use a clinque exfoliating solution. I use good make-up (lancome oil-free foundation) but I'm really scared my skin is just going to keep gettin worse. I know an acid peel isn't going to miraculously going to clear my skin but it'll be a start! Thank you for all your help!

• Answer:

  Perhaps you should go see a dermatologist before acting upon the situation you self. Firstly visit your family doctor, who will refer you to a skin specialist. They will most likely give you relevant creams and procedures to undergo. I assume that they won't recommend acid peel, unless your situation really calls for it and all methods do not have effect on your skin.Also remember to have a sufficient intake of water daily and use dermatologist recommended sunscreen when outside. It has also been proven that oily foods aggravate pimples as well as full cream milk and chocolate etc.. so try and consume a lower amount of these foods. I hope your skin clears up for you soon and it's good that you try to minimize the use of makeup :)