We’ve all been there – you take a good look in an enlarging mirror and freak out. Now, before you attempt to do any permanent damage to your skin (by trying to pop them out), read on and learn how to maintain a healthy daily skincare routine, that will prevent these guys from showing up in the first place.
First things first, what are blackheads anyway?
Well, those black oily dots that appear on your nose and chin are a manifestation of the common skin disorder known as acne. They are not as noticeable as pimples, which protrude on the skin. They do, however, blemish the skin, make pores larger and more visible, and they can lead to skin inflammation and pimples.
So, what is the best way to get rid of blackheads at home?
Getting rid of blackheads is not something that happens overnight. With excellent skincare habits, it is possible to dramatically improve your complexion, reduce pore size and prevent excess oil, dead skin cells, or other material from clogging pores and causing blackheads or other blemishes.
Try these tips for eliminating blackheads and improving your skin, naturally:
Daily Skin Care Habits for Stopping Blackheads
What do you have to do to take care of your skin to eliminate these unwanted blemishes?
1. Keep your skin clean.
Wash in the morning and evening with a facial cleanser, preferably one that contains alpha-hydroxy acids. Alpha-hydroxy acids, which are found in fresh fruit and some vegetables, encourage cell renewal and reduce pore size. For an easy natural alternative to commercial cleansers, wash with fresh mashed tomato to cleanse pores and then rinse.
2. Got oily skin? follow with a toner.
Many commercial toners, also known as astringents, contain alcohol and may dry out your skin. For alcohol and chemical-free and inexpensive, natural alternative, use distilled witch hazel. Witch hazel is a natural astringent, but it also has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Dabbing a small amount on the face with a cotton ball or cloth will wipe away excess oil, dirt, and makeup, thereby preventing clogged pores and helping to get rid of blackheads.
Dickinson’s Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner with Rosewater, Alcohol-Free, 98% Natural Formula.
3. Use a daily moisturizer (even with oily skin!)
Just be careful to use an oil-free moisturizer and apply lightly to prevent clogged pores. If you want to eliminate blackheads, consider going without makeup. Cosmetic products can easily clog pores and irritate the skin. If makeup is a must, choose water-based, natural cosmetic products.
4. Scrub and Mask (Twice a week)
Exfoliate with a facial scrub twice a week to slough away dead skin cells and promote skin renewal. Exfoliating is also a great skincare practice for reducing pore size. There are many excellent facial scrubs available commercially. You can also use anything at home, such as brown sugar and ground almonds, baking soda and water, or even a loofah sponge.
Also, use a clay mask two times a week. This may be one of the fastest ways of getting rid of blackheads. A clay mask is a powerful tool for sucking oil, dirt, bacteria, and dead skin from pores. The clay will also supply the skin with minerals, boost circulation, and tighten pores.
Aztec Secret – Indian Healing Clay.
Healthy Skin Care, Healthy Lifestyle
While skincare is essential for beautiful skin, a healthy lifestyle is important as well. Follow the basics;
Drink plenty of water, eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, and limit your intake of processed and sugary foods. Getting rid of blackheads does not require expensive products or extreme measures. It does require consistency and commitment to healthy skin. Blackheads occur when a pore has opened to the surface and the sebum, which contains melanin, oxidizes and turns a black or brown color. Blackheads are not simply just dirt that can be washed away.
Ok, got it. But I’m going out on a date and need an ASAP treatment. What can I do?
As mentioned before, squeezing or picking may cause damage and inflammation leading to more severe types of acne. However, there are some products in the market, that can give faster aid:
Benzoyl Peroxide.
Benzoyl peroxide is effective in the treatment of blackheads because it works to dry up the blackhead and help it to flake away. Benzoyl peroxide should be applied to the affected area after first cleansing the skin. A moisturizer should be used after applying benzoyl peroxide or any other type of pimple cream because dryness and peeling may occur.
Blackhead extractor.
A blackhead extractor is a small, stainless steel tool with a loop at one or both ends that are used to carefully extract the blackhead right from the pore without causing damage to the surrounding area. An extractor can be used if the blackhead looks as though it’s ready to come out. These tools should be disinfected before each use to avoid the spread of bacteria that could cause breakouts.
Regular exfoliation.
Exfoliating the skin will help to get rid of dead skin cells that can clog pores and cause blackheads or further breakouts. Using an exfoliating facial scrub a few times per week can help to get rid of blackheads.
Once blackheads are treated, prevent them from popping up again, by keeping your face clean. And except for a daily routine, there are more habits to break:
avoid touching your skin with your fingers. Also, try washing pillowcases at least once a week. Pillowcases can easily become filled with bacteria either from the hair or skin, which can clog pores and cause breakouts.
If your skin has stubborn blackhead and keeping your skin clean, doesn’t help, consider visiting a dermatologist to see what else can be done. Dermatologists can prescribe topical and oral medications as a last resort for blackhead acne treatment if needed.
