Blackheads (a type of acne) are small dark bumps caused by clogged hair follicles (pores). They can appear on the nose, chin, chest, back, and shoulders. To get rid of blackheads, it is important to understand why and how they are formed.
There are millions of hair follicles on the body, including on the face. Each follicle contains a hair and a sebaceous gland. When the skin sheds dead cells, they accumulate in the follicle and form a bump called a comedo. If the bump remains closed, it is called a whitehead, but if the skin around the bump opens and allows air to enter, a blackhead forms.
Some factors responsible for the formation of blackheads include:
– Excessive oil production by the sebaceous glands.
– An accumulation of acne-causing bacteria on the skin.
– The buildup of dead skin cells, which leads to clogged hair follicles.
– Hormonal changes during menstruation or while on birth control, leading to increased oil production in the body.
– Medications such as corticosteroids and androgens.
It is difficult to get rid of blackheads. However, you can control and reverse these effects with simple remedies, preventive tricks, and dermatological treatments. This article presents some of the most effective methods to eliminate these unsightly blackheads.
Exfoliate Twice a Week
Although exfoliation is considered harsh for your skin, it can help remove blackheads. Use gentle chemical exfoliants that contain alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHA and BHA).
These acids are commonly used to eliminate blackheads because they help remove dead skin cells from the pores. Beta and beta hydroxy acids such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid are frequently used in acne treatment. These acids remove a layer of skin, which can make your skin prone to damage from ultraviolet rays. Always apply a non-oily sunscreen when going outside after exfoliating with these acids.
Exfoliate with these acids twice a week if you have normal to dry skin and three times a week if you have oily skin. Make sure to hydrate your skin after each exfoliation session. Remember that these acids cannot be used in equal amounts for all skin types. Therefore, consult a dermatologist before starting this treatment.
Wash Your Face Twice a Day
Cleanse your face in the morning to remove dirt and bacteria that may have accumulated overnight.
Do not over-cleanse your face, as it may strip the natural oils from your skin. If you exercise frequently, make sure to wash your face immediately afterward to prevent sweat from clogging your pores.
Purchase a gentle cleansing product from a pharmacy and use it twice a day.
Charcoal Mask
Activated charcoal has the ability to absorb a wide variety of substances. Thus, it can help absorb dirt and debris that clog the pores, facilitating the removal of blackheads. However, there is no scientific evidence that topical application of activated charcoal has benefits for the skin.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 tablespoon of activated charcoal
– 1 tablespoon of unflavored gelatin
– 2 tablespoons of water
Mix the water with the gelatin and heat the mixture for 10 to 15 seconds.
When the gelatin paste thickens, add the activated charcoal and mix well.
Apply this paste to your nose and let it dry.
Remove the dried charcoal mask and wash your face well.
Apply this mask 1 to 2 times a week.
Clay Mask
Different types of clay have been used since ancient times to heal skin infections, as they are packed with antibacterial properties. Clay removes dirt and oil from clogged pores. By absorbing impurities from the skin, clay helps to cleanse and refresh the skin’s surface, thus reducing blackheads.
Clay is used as a detoxifying agent. It has a high absorption capacity for toxins and antibacterial properties. Thus, it is a powerful ingredient that can be used in the treatment of acne and blackheads.
For most people, using clay masks once a week is sufficient. But do not exceed this frequency, as it may irritate your skin.
Egg White Mask
When egg whites dry on the skin, they stick to the pores and help pull out the dirt that clogs them along with the blackheads.
Ingredients:
– 2 egg whites
– 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
– A tissue
Separate the egg whites from the yolks and beat them in a bowl with two tablespoons of lemon juice.
Apply a thin layer of this mixture around the nose, focusing more on the areas with blackheads.
Let the first layer of the mixture dry, then place a tissue over the nose.
Apply a second layer of the mixture over the tissue and let it dry.
You can proceed with a third layer if you have many blackheads.
Once dry, you can remove the tissue with the dried layers from your skin, along with all the blackheads.
Wash your face well to get rid of the raw smell from the eggs.
You can apply this mask twice a week.
Gelatin and Milk Mask
Gelatin is a bio-adhesive that is effective for closing skin wounds. Its unique and sticky texture can be beneficial in removing blackheads. Adding milk to gelatin helps balance the skin’s pH and controls excessive oil production.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon of unflavored gelatin
– 2 tablespoons of milk
Mix the gelatin with the milk and heat it for 10 to 15 seconds in a microwave or a pot. Do not boil.
Apply this mixture to your nose.
Let the mask dry for 30 to 40 minutes.
Gently peel the mask from the edges.
You can do this 2 to 3 times a week.
Lemon and Honey
The combination of honey and lemon has been used to treat a variety of skin issues. While the vitamin C in lemon helps tighten the skin’s pores, honey acts as an antibacterial agent that has the potential to fight acne-causing bacteria and blackheads.
Note: Avoid this remedy if you have dry or sensitive skin, as it may worsen dryness and cause redness and irritation.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 lemon
– 1/2 teaspoon of honey
Squeeze the juice from half a lemon and add the honey to it.
Apply this mixture to your nose. You can also apply it to your entire face.
Leave it on for 10-15 minutes and rinse with warm water.
For best results, you should apply this face mask 2 to 3 times a week.
Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera has natural astringent properties that can help tighten open pores, thus preventing the formation of blackheads.
Massage your nose with aloe vera gel.
Let it dry before rinsing with warm water.
You should do this at least twice a day.
