Blackheads are spots on the skin that are usually “yellow or black in color” and result from an excessive build up in oil production. Pores can become obstructed by dirt or other irritants like make up, sweat, lotions, and other products we apply to our face.
When the blackhead gets infected, it swells and turns into a pimple. Infection can occur when the blackhead is squeezed or there is vigorous scrubbing on the area. Poor or improper hygiene can also add to the condition.
There are three basic, simple steps you can use for blackhead removal:
The first step is to washing your face daily. Use a facial cleanser that has benzoyl peroxide as its main cleaning ingredient and massage it onto your face with your fingers for a
couple of minutes.
This can help to exfoliate the skin to remove dirt and dead skin cells (that can clog pores). Don’t scrub the face because this can irritate the skin. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a towel using a soft, patting motion.
Use either a facial steamer or warm water to help soften the blackhead for extraction.
To get rid of the blackhead, you can use a blackhead remover or “pore strips”.
Blackhead removers are metal tools that are often used in dermatologists offices. They can be used to apply pressure to the area surrounding the blackheads and remove them more effectively than squeezing with fingers.If you do use a blackhead remover, make sure they are clean and sterile. Put the hole over the blackhead and apply mild, even pressure because if too much pressure is applied, there could be scarring. After the blackhead is removed, you should use an antibacterial ointment to prevent infection.
Pore strips are an adhesive tape that are designed to remove comedones, dirt, and dead skin from the pore. To use the strips, apply them to the area where the blackheads are located (usually around the nose) and let them dry. With a smooth motion, remove the
strips. This should effectively remove a large percentage of blackheads.
You can also apply special facial mask designed to treat blackheads. You can leave it on for ten or fifteen minutes before you wash it off with warm water.
And finally, wash your face regularly to keep blackheads from returning. Set up a routine for cleaning your face and exfoliating. This may include a facial wash, use of a toner and a moisturizer.