Blackheads
Blackheads are follicles filled with sebum and are attributed to overactive sebaceous glands.
Blackheads form when dead skin cells and sebum (naturally occurring oil) block a pore or hair follicle. Picking at blackheads only make them worse, and they can block a pore or hair follicle to the extent that a pimple forms at the site of the blackhead.
They can appear on the face, chest, neck, and back. Individuals with oily skin are more susceptible to blackheads, but anyone can get them. As tempting as it may be to squeeze them out, doing so may cause damage to the skin.
Natural cures for blackheads can not only effectively manage outbreaks but can contribute to preventing blackheads altogether.
Home Remedies for Blackheads
There are many helpful natural remedies for blackheads.
Proper Cleansing
Blackheads don't just magically go away, but the best natural remedy and home cure for blackheads are proper cleansing techniques and common sense. What you put into your body affects every part of you, including your skin.
You should drink plenty of water and fruit juices and eat plenty of fruit to promote overall health and good skin condition. Keep your skin clean by washing it with medicated soap and warm water before bed or applying makeup.
Black Head Extractor
A blackhead extractor is a common method that gets instant results. It is a metal tool with a small loop at one end and usually a larger loop at the other.
- Start with a freshly washed face, using warm water to open your pores. Always follow the manufacturer's detailed instructions.
- The instructions are generally to position the loop over the blackhead, then apply pressure until the blackhead comes to the surface. (Take care not to use too much pressure and puncture the skin, which can lead to scarring.)
- Once the core is expelled, use an antibacterial ointment to clean the area. Always clean and disinfect the tool before and after each use.
Pore Strips
Another quick fix is to use pore strips. The strips you apply to problem areas are cut in various shapes to fit specific areas.
Always follow directions supplied with your product.
- Wash your face with warm water.
- Moisten strips and then applied to the face. One side of the strip contains a glue-like substance that, when dried, will stick to your skin.
- After an allotted amount of time (around 10 minutes), carefully peel the strip off your face.
The blackheads and whiteheads stick to the strip and are extracted from the pore. You will likely be amazed at how much this strip will remove. This is a process that will need to be repeated as necessary.
Salicylic Acid OTC Preparations
Salicylic acid is used in many commercial blackhead products. It unplugs blocked pores, exfoliates, and reduces swelling, redness, and inflammation. Look for it in facial scrubs, masks, and facial cleansing products.
Once blackheads are gone, continued use will stop new blackheads from forming. The acid is drying, so you may need to use a good moisturizer to reduce any product irritation on your skin.
Oatmeal and Yogurt Facial
A great natural remedy for blackheads is an oatmeal and yogurt facial:
- 2 TBL Oatmeal
- 3 TBL Plain yogurt
- 1 TBL Lemon juice
- 1 TBL Olive oil
- Whisk or blend all ingredients.
- Apply to the affected area first, then cover your face with the mixture.
- Leave for 5-7 minutes, and rinse with cool water.
Cornstarch and Vinegar
A cornstarch and vinegar facial is a helpful way to eliminate blackheads. The vinegar is a mild acid that helps to open clogged pores reducing blackhead size.
- Mix enough vinegar and cornstarch to make a paste
- Apply the mask to the affected area
- Leave the mask on for 15-30 minutes
- Wash the mask off with a washcloth and warm water
Clay Masks
Fuller's Earth (Multani Mitti) is a mineral-rich clay that will extract oil and other impurities from your skin when applied as a mask. Mix the clay with water, let it dry, then gently wash it with cool water and a washcloth.
Charcoal Mask
A charcoal mask works like a clay mask and can help draw out impurities, dead skin, and oils. Use weekly and follow instructions on the manufacturer's packaging.
Lemon Juice, Sugar, and Honey Scrub
Lemon juice and honey have antibacterial properties and can help fight the bacteria associated with blackheads. The sugar granules act as an exfoliant when mixed as a gentle facial scrub.
Mix;
- 1/2 TBL lemon juice
- 1 TBL sugar
- 1 TBL raw honey (without beeswax)
Gently massage in a circular motion for a few minutes, rinse off with warm water, and pat dry when finished.