Blackheads are a nuisance to everyone; luckily, there are many ways of getting rid of blackheads. Removal of blackheads can either be done at home by yourself or by a dermatologist. There are natural ways of removing blackheads, topical blackhead products, and also chemical peels.
Some of the natural ways of removing blackheads is by using clay masks and charcoal masks. Some tools that come in handy for this task are skin brushes and pore strips. More ways of getting rid of blackheads are discussed in the article.
What are blackheads?
Before diving deep on how to remove them, it is important to know what blackheads are. Blackheads are pores blocked by bacteria, oil, or dead skin cells. They are not completely blocked, only partially and hence also referred to as open comedones. In addition, its contents are close to the surface of the pore, and because of exposure to air, they turn black. Blackheads frequently take a long time to clear, and it may be tempting to squeeze to clear them quickly. This is not advisable.n
Can you squeeze blackheads out?n
Blackheads have bacteria under the skin surface, within the walls of the pores. When you squeeze the blackhead, you risk tearing the pore walls and causing the germs to spread out into the surrounding tissue. As the germs spread, white blood cells hurry to the location and may lead to the formation of pimples or acne papules. nnSqueezing likewise spreads bacteria across the surface area of the skin. Bacteria are among the things that clog the pores leading to more acne and scarring. In case it was unclear, you should not squeeze blackheads.nnThen what should you do? Can you get rid of blackheads without squeezing them?n
How do you really get rid of blackheads?n
Blackheads are one of the most common kinds of acne. People with oily skin or combination skin are more susceptible to blackheads. However, anyone can get them. nnUnlike whiteheads, blackheads have open surface areas. This exposes it to air leading to its black color. nnHowever tempting it is to squeeze that ugly blackhead away, you should not do it. It will do more harm and damage to your skin than good. nnHere are better alternatives to deal with your blackheads and preventing new ones from forming:n
Cleanse the blackheads with salicylic acidnn
Try over-the-counter products that have salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is the favored active ingredient for whiteheads and blackheads due to the fact that it breaks down the products that block pores: dead skin cells and excess oil. Using salicylic acid cleansers, you can get rid of excess oil, dead skin cells together with dirt and makeup.
Consider using products with salicylic acid ones a day when you start, preferably before bed. Then in the morning, you can use your normal cleanser. Slowly by slowly, the skin will get used to it, and that is when you can use it before and after bed. Salicylic acid is very strong, and some people can not use it daily. Stop using it if your skin is too sensitive and it keeps reacting to the acid.
Pore strips may be more harmful when removing blackheadsnnn
A lot of home remedy equipment are coming up that guarantee a safe removal of blackheads leaving you with tidy pores. Pore strips, masks, and other tools have been successful at removing the blackheads. However, they may cause more damage afterwards.
Pore strips not only remove the bad stuff but can also remove the stuff your skin needs to be healthy. Removing hair roots and natural oils, for example, can make the skin dry and trigger irritation. This will make the sebaceous glands to produce excess oil which will cause further clogging and hence more blackheads.
There are professional extraction tools that do a better job of removing the blackheads without tampering with essential skin elements. However, these tools need to be operated by professional dermatologists. In the hands of amateurs, they can still be harmful, resulting in wounds and scars.
Clay mask for blackheadsnnn
Clay mask is essential for people with oily skin. They remove oil, dirt, and other elements deep from your pores. The mask can also loosen up the clogged pores. nnThere are a variety of top quality masks in the market. No matter which mask you pick, you can use it once a week with your weekly exfoliating treatment.n
Charcoal mask for blackheadsnnn
Charcoal masks work by extracting dead skin cells, oil, and other impurities. Charcoal improves the effectiveness of the mask. You can use it one a week.n
Don't use benzoyl peroxide for blackheadsnnnn
A lot of over-the-counter acne medications have benzoyl peroxide. However, benzoyl peroxide doesn't work for all kinds of acne. Benzoyl peroxide works well for inflammatory acne, cysts, pustules because it reduces swelling. Plus, it can get rid of bacteria in a pimple. Nevertheless, blackheads aren't considered inflammatory, and they aren't caused by germs, so benzoyl peroxide products won't deal with your blackheads.
Gently exfoliation to remove blackheadsnnnn
Exfoliation for inflammatory acne might trigger more redness and irritation. However, for blackheads, regular exfoliation can help eliminate excessive dead skin cells that cause clogged pores. The process might likewise carefully eliminate existing blackheads.
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) can do the job perfectly. Glycolic acid is the most common kind of AHA, and salicylic acid is a popular BHA. AHAs and BHAs work by peeling the top layer of your skin. This should improve wrinkles and age spots, all while cleaning pores and making your skin softer. BHAs are more available and affordable in the market compared to AHAs.
Use non comedogenic products to prevent blackheadsnn
All exfoliators, masks, and cleansers can be useless if you do not use non comedogenic face products and makeup. Non Comedogenic simply means that the product will not block or clog your pores. Not all products are noncomedogenic, and therefore, you have to carefully read the labels to ensure every face product is. n
Remove your make up before bed to prevent blackheadsnnn
You have to remove your makeup before bed. If you don't, you are simply asking for more blackheads. If left on overnight, even non comedogenic makeup can block your pores. Plus, eye makeup left on overnight can cause eye inflammations or infections.
Use a skin brush to remove blackheads
A skin brush can get rid of excess dead skin cells just as AHAs or BHAs would. To avoid irritation, however, use a skin brush only once a week. You can also use the skin brush with the AHA or BHA exfoliators in alternating days.
Topical retinoids to get rid of blackheads
Retinoids are helpful for persistent cases of acne by unclogging the pores. This will also improve the effectiveness of other OTC medications as they will be able to reach the follicle.
Chemical peel for blackheads
Chemical peels are typically used in anti-aging remedies, such as reducing fine lines and age spots. The peels frequently consist of AHAs, and they work by peeling the skin's top layer.
The procedure should give you a smooth, refreshed-looking skin. The peel can get rid of dead skin cells and shrink the pores even though it is not considered as a treatment for blackheads. If you are looking for an anti-aging remedy and also want to deal with your blackheads, then this is the procedure for you.
A dermatologist can help you remove the blackheads
A session with a dermatologist to remove acne, including blackheads, could last anywhere between 6 to 12 weeks. If symptoms persist, the dermatologist may use alternative methods or tools to extract the blackheads professionally. They may even suggest a series of dermabrasion treatments or prescription retinoids to avoid blackheads from returning.
How to get rid of blackhead holes?n
Removing enlarged holes left behind by blackheads
Blackheads are annoying as we all can testify. To make things worse, even after successfully removing the blackhead, the remains can still haunt you for a while. This is because blackheads leave behind a hole. These are enlarged pores that fail to shrink. nnIt should be clear that it is not possible to completely get rid of the holes left behind by a blackhead, even if some products claim to be able to. It is possible, however, to lessen the appearance of these pesky pits by tightening your pores and using strategies to prevent the holes from blocking again.n
Reducing the appearance of blackhead holes
Unblock blackhead holes with a retinoid treatment. While much of these vitamin-A derivatives are offered as prescriptions, there are likewise lots of non-prescription alternatives. Retinoids are as well effective in reducing oil and dead skin cells that can cause another blackhead. It's possible to see positive results after about 5 weeks.n
Using salicylic-acid toner for the blackheads after cleansing
Salicylic acid helps to remove excess oil to do away with blackheads and clear out bigger pores. Considering that salicylic acid can be a drying agent, you ought to begin using the item only once a day. After that, you can slowly start using it twice a day. This will prevent irritation. n
Baking soda paste for blackheads holes
Not only is baking soda is good for removing blackheads, but it is also a cheaper alternative. Moreover, natural exfoliation also decreases the appearance of blackhead holes.
Using clay masks to reduce enlarged pores
Use a clay mask about three times a week. Unlike hydrating masks, clays tighten your pores and might prevent new blackheads from forming. Using clay masks regularly will reduce the big pores left from the old blackheads. The mask must be used consistently for the best results.
Pore strips can also remove enlarged holes
Additionally, you can use pore strips on the clogged pores. When you target the clogged pore directly, chances or getting irritation and enlarged pores are significantly reduced. This is a better alternative to blackhead extractors. Pore strips can be bought over the counter.
Use microdermabrasion set for deep blackhead exfoliation
For deep extraction, you can purchase a microdermabrasion kit. This is similar to the professional dermabrasion kit that dermatologists use to improve large pores. This armature kit might not be as harsh as the professional dermabrasion, but occasional exfoliation can do the trick for you. Your pores with not get clogged, and over time, the texture of your skin will improve even with large pores.
How do you avoid getting blackheads?n
Things to avoid to prevent blackheads
Properly washing your face is the best way to avoid the appearance of blackheads. The right technique can spare you a lot of trouble and visits to the skin expert. nnProper skin hygiene will prevent the pore from clogging and hence reduce the chances of getting blackheads. This does not mean that you over scrub your face. Then how do you properly wash your face?n
How to wash your face for blackheads?
First, wash your hands to remove bacteria from them. Use a make-up removal kit to remove any make-up you have on. Warm water is the best for this, not hot water. Use a soap-free mild cleanser to gently massage your face in a circular motion. Concentrate on the nose region and the forehead. Splash warm water on your face to rinse off the cleanser. Pat your face dry. Use a clean towel. Do not push down with excessive force or rub your face. Finish up by applying face cream or lotion.
What to avoid when washing your face for blackheads?
There are some mistakes we commonly do in the process of trying to prevent blackheads. These mistakes can be counterproductive and can lead to more blackheads and acne.
Avoid the following:
- Washing your face with extremely cold or extremely hot water.
- Rubbing your face or vigorous cleaning.
- Using strong soaps and scrubbing pads on the face.
- Using cosmetic products that block the skin pores.
- Popping, picking, or tampering with acne.
- Staying too long in the sun.
Conclusion on getting rid of blackheads
Contact your skin specialist for prescription medications if natural home remedies stop working to decrease blackhead holes. In extreme cases, your dermatologist might recommend a type of surgery called a punch biopsy to physically close pores.nnEnlarged pores are more susceptible to blockage. Nevertheless, you need to refrain from popping new blackheads. Doing so will just cause inflammation and swelling. Serious cases can result in scars and infections.n
