When you wake up and look in the mirror, you may occasionally notice blackheads around your cheeks or nose. This is an incredibly common problem, but it is not a sign of any major medical issue. It is a cosmetic problem that can be treated using natural solutions and by learning how to properly care for your skin.
If you want to discover the best methods for removing blackheads and preventing them from showing up, then make sure you read the following information.
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What Causes Blackheads to Form?
Blackheads are an annoyance, but why do they appear on your skin? Acne is often the result of clogged pores and skin follicles. Each skin follicle contains a sebaceous gland that normally produces oil. This oil is referred to as sebum and is a necessary oil for keeping your skin soft. As dead skin cells collect and oil clogs the pores of the skin follicle, a small bump is produced. This pimple can either be a whitehead or a blackhead.
Whiteheads are pores that are clogged with a combination of dead skin cells and oil. They often appear light in color or flesh-colored. Blackheads form when the excess oil and dead skin cells are exposed to air. This darkens the outbreak and the plugged follicle becomes visible.
Most people develop blackheads on a regular basis, but an abundance or increase in the number of blackheads can be the result of changes in hormone levels, genetics, or skin care techniques.
How Can You Get Rid of Blackheads?
There are many different treatments for blackheads. This includes using facial scrubs, masks, and other skin care products, along with using home remedies and homemade scrubs. If you plan on using skin care products or commercial masks and scrubs, make sure that they are not too rough for your skin. Applying a product that is too harsh can irritate your skin and lead to further breakouts.
If you are interested in trying a home remedy to remove blackheads, there are several different methods that you could try:
- Bentonite clay
- Honey pore strips
- Egg white mask
Bentonite clay contains an abundance of minerals that can help heal your skin. The molecules of the clay contain a small electrical charge when wet. This can help draw out oils, impurities, and toxins from your skin. Creating a facial mask from bentonite clay is an effective way to safely remove blackheads.
You can make your own bentonite clay mask by combining one tablespoon of the clay with a small amount of water. Mix the two ingredients until you have a soft paste. Use your fingertips to apply the paste to your skin. Allow the mask to dry for 20 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
Honey contains antibacterial properties that your skin will benefit from. With a combination of honey and milk, you can make your own blackhead pore strips. You will need one tablespoon of raw honey, one teaspoon of milk, and a clean strip of cotton. Mix the raw honey and the milk in a small bowl. Heat the mixture in your microwave for 5 to 10 seconds.
Mix the two ingredients again and then apply directly to your skin. Cover the honey and milk mixture with a thin strip of cotton. Let the mixture dry for up to 20 minutes and then slowly peel the strip away. Rinse your face with cold water and then use a moisturizer.
Another option is to use an egg white mask. The consistency of eggs is useful for creating a mask and they can help tighten your pores. They are also full of nutrients that your skin craves. If you want to try making your own egg white mask, then you will need one egg, some facial tissue, a small bowel, and a clean towel.
Rinse your face and pat dry. Place one egg white in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. Apply the egg white to your face in a thin layer. Allow this layer to dry. Once the first layer has dried, add another layer. Add a third layer and cover with facial tissue. Let the egg white sit on your face for 20 minutes and then rinse clean with warm water.
Can You Prevent Blackheads from Appearing?
There are ways that you can you limit the chances of having to deal with blackheads. By caring for your skin and paying attention to what skin care products you use, you can prevent blackheads from occurring. Here are a few suggestions for attempting to prevent blackheads and acne:
- Keep oil off your face
- Use a gentle exfoliator
- Cleanse your face twice per day
First and foremost – keep oil off your face. Try to avoid touching your face frequently. Touching your face repeatedly will lead to a buildup of oil and increase the chances of developing blackheads and whiteheads. If you wear makeup, make sure that you thoroughly remove your makeup at the end of the day.
In order to keep oil out of your face, you should also keep your hair out of your face. Keep your hair pulled back from your face or ensure that your hair is thoroughly washed. Having hair hanging in your face all day will lead to more oil on your skin.
Scrubbing your face too harshly can promote the production of oil. This leads to additional outbreaks and blackheads. Use a gentle exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and avoid irritating your skin. If you have sensitive skin, avoid using masks, toners, and any other application that may irritate your skin.
Cleanse your face twice per day. Use a mild soap or simply wash your face with warm water. You should do this in the morning and at night. Do not apply any moisturizers and any other products to your skin before bedtime, unless you are trying to deal with dehydrated skin.
Blackheads are not a major medical concern, but most people do not like having them on their face. They are often thought of as a sign of uncleanliness. Due to this negative connotation, you will probably want to remove your blackheads as soon as they appear. Use these solutions, treatments, and preventative tips to get rid of your blackheads and keep them from coming back.