Blackheads are the most common form of acne, and they affect nearly all of us. Removing blackheads can be difficult and time-consuming but with the help of these useful tips and tricks, you’ll see better results in no time!
Picking, scratching, and popping blackheads (or any form of acne, for that matter) is the biggest mistake you could make for your skin. Recently, there’s been a hefty rise in masks, pore strips and blackhead metal extraction tools and they all seem to promise one thing – the simple removal of blackheads and clear skin.
Although products such as pore strips may help remove dirt and grime from your pores, they can also remove natural oils and hair follicles that actually help and support your skin. As a result, the skin can become irritated and dry, which inevitably could lead to more blackheads.
When it comes to the extraction of blackheads, it’s best to see a professional (who knows exactly what they’re doing) to ensure your skin is at its best.
Salicylic acid is the best ingredient for reducing blackheads, because it reduces excess oil and dead skin cells that clog pores. Choose a cleanser with salicylic acid for a gentle yet effective cleanse. Although you still need to wash your face twice a day, try using a cleanser that has salicylic acid in it just once a day to begin with.
Consider using it in the evening only, and then using your regular cleanser in the morning. As your skin gets used to the product, you may choose to use it both morning and evening. Results are achieved when the skin has a clear routine and regimen – consistency is key!
Clay masks are great for those who may have oily to combination skin. They work by retrieving dirt, oil, junk and grime, deep from your pores. Clay masks can loosen and remove clogged pores, when it comes to blackheads. A great clay mask for blackhead removal is the L’Oréal Detox and Brighten Clay Mask.
A clay mask is a good product to add to your weekly skincare routine to achieve real results and see a reduction in the number of blackheads on your face. Like clay masks, charcoal masks work deep in the skin to draw out oil, dead skin cells, and other impurities. Charcoal is thought to take these benefits up another level.
One thing to remember regarding both clay and charcoal masks – only use them once or twice a week (or stick to the product’s instructions) to avoid irritation.
Start your morning and evening skincare routine with an oil-based cleanser to fully remove any makeup residue, impurities and oil. Follow with a second cleanser – this should ideally be water-based. Then, continue with the rest of your routine. Double-cleansing is important as it fully cleanses the skin and ensures the pores are not clogged.
Furthermore, double-cleansing will ensure all of your makeup has been removed. If left on overnight, even non-comedogenic makeup can clog your pores. Additionally, makeup left on overnight can lead to irritations, which could lead to more blackheads forming.
It’s best to avoid home remedies to remove (or reduce blackheads) as they may worsen the skin’s condition and lead to more blackheads forming. It’s also important to remember to be gentle with your skin; many of the ingredients involved with home remedies are acidic and harsh (e.g. baking soda, lemon juice and toothpaste) on the skin’s barrier.
If you do decide to try a home remedy, be aware and exercise extreme caution. Ideally, visit your dermatogolist to discuss the best treatment for you and your skin.
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