How to Get Rid of Blackheads Naturally

Our skin accumulates all kinds of filth like sebum, dirt, oil, and dead skin cells daily. This can result in hair follicles and clogged pores and, leading to skin concerns like whiteheads, blackheads, acne. Blackheads look like small, raised bumps on the upper surface of the skin, mostly black. They are caused when sebum and oil block the pores on the skin.

This occurs when the skin is not cleaned thoroughly, and the oil settles in the pores over time. And when it’s exposed to air, it oxidizes and turns black, forming blackheads. It’s familiar and very irking, and most people get them at some point in their life. The face is the most common area where the blackheads appear.

They can be classified as a mild type of acne. In medical terms, blackheads are open comedones. Blackheads are frequently seen on the cheeks, nose, corner of the nose, forehead and the chin area. But these can appear in other parts of the body as well. Read more to get rid of blackheads naturally.

What are Blackheads?

Before we explore how to treat Blackheads, it is essential to know your enemy. So the critical question here is: What are Blackheads?

Blackheads are darkened bumps(technically referred to as a comedo or comedone) on your skin, which appear as a result of clogged hair follicles. They are, in fact, a mild, non-inflammatory form of acne.

A survey observed(1) that in a year, nearly 50 million individuals suffer from acne in the US alone! The presence of excess oil in the hair follicle prevents the pore from closing. The open skin pore further attracts dirt and debris that gets logged into it.

The characteristic ‘black’ appearance stems from the oxidation of melanin pigment present in the sebum. However, Blackheads can be present in a variety of colors, which includes yellow, brown, and grey. These black, raised bumps are highly noticeable on the skin, especially in those who are fair-skinned.

Blackheads differ from whiteheads as they are directly exposed to the air, resulting in the formation of a toughened plug. Whereas, whiteheads a thin layer of skin screens, the pore contents from the air. As a result, the comedo stays sealed and thus, does not gain the black coloration. Other rare types of Blackheads include Giant Comedo and Nevus Comedonicus.

Naturopathic Remedies for Blackheads

• Home Remedies
• Face Masks
• Essential Oils
• Mechanical Methods
• Diet

Factors that Exacerbate Blackheads

When dealing with how to get rid of Blackheads or ways to prevent Blackheads, one needs to understand the factors that come to play. While Blackheads may occur naturally, there are a variety of factors that may worsen the condition. Hormones, genes, lifestyle, and skin quality control can increase your chances of developing Blackheads.

Let us see how these factors may contribute to Blackheads.

1. Hormones

Hormones are one of the primary reasons that cause most skin conditions, be it Blackheads or acne. Hormonal changes result in the excess production and secretion of sebum, which results in Blackheads.

Other hormone-related bodily changes that may possibly catalyze the production of excess sebum include:

2. Puberty

Puberty is, by far, the most common trigger that results in excess sebum. As an adolescent hits puberty, the body begins to generate and secrete copious amounts of hormones.

The increase in hormones also triggers the increased production of body oils in the sebaceous glands. If the excess oil combines with bacteria or dead skin present inside the pore, it could result in a plug formation. As the sebum production continues, the pore will enlarge to form a prominently visible comedo. Depending on the exposure to air, it could result in Blackheads or whiteheads.

As the body is at the peak of oil production during puberty, if untreated, severe Blackheads could result in pustules, cysts, papules, or nodes, depending on the bacteria that has caused the skin condition.

3. Menstruation

Most women have reported that skin conditions like acne and Blackheads become more prevalent before, during, or just after their period. This may be attributed to the fact that the body experiences a substantial amount of hormonal fluctuations during this period.

During menstruation, the body’s estrogen levels drop while progesterone levels increase. Owing to this hormonal change, the sebaceous gland pumps out more oil. Quite normally, these period-related skin conditions appear a week before period and subside after the body reaches homeostasis.

4. Birth Control Pills

A study conducted in 2012 discovered that some brands of birth control pills help in opening up skin pores and thus, prevent blackhead formation. This trial conducted on 12,000 subjects gave insight on how most birth control pills lower sebum production and decrease androgen levels. As a result, the participants experienced clearer skin.

However, the body’s reaction to birth control pills varies from individual to individual. Some women will find their skin clearing up on following a regularized course of birth pills while others may notice their condition worsening. Interestingly, birth control pills that contain androgen-based progestin increase the incidents of Blackheads.

5. Pregnancy

Quite often, the sixth week of pregnancy is marked with acne and Blackheads. Even the most clear-skinned females may observe acne formation on their skin in this duration. This is primarily because of the changes in hormones during gestation.

The increase in androgen levels triggers the production of sebum, which causes acne and Blackheads. Further, as the body tends to retain more fluids during pregnancy, the toxins can cause worsening of the skin conditions.

6. Hair

Interestingly, if your hair falls on your face, you could be more susceptible to Blackheads!

This is primarily because greasy hair could spread the P. acnes bacteria when it comes in contact with the skin. This bacteria can enter your pores and cause blackheads formation. Thus, it is a good practice to tie up your hair when you workout or exercise so you can keep the sweaty hair out of your face.

7. Excessive Sweating

While sweat may not necessarily cause Blackheads, it can definitely worsen the condition. Sweating results in yeast production that may infiltrate your pores and thereby clog them. Quite often, the Blackheads present on the buttocks, groin region, back, and chest are caused due to excessive sweating. It is commonly found in individuals who participate in sweaty workout regimens or perform hard manual labor.

8. Stress

It is no surprise that sweat can cause your skin to breakout. While there is no explicit research supporting the correlation between stress and Blackheads, dermatologists have clearly observed that stressed individuals are more vulnerable to skin conditions.

While stress does not directly cause blackhead formation, it does contribute towards exacerbating the situation. This is primarily because stress triggers the production of androgens and cortisol, which in turn increases oil production. As a result, it leads to a greater possibility of clogged pores. It has also been observed that since women produce a higher amount of androgens when subjected to stressful conditions, they are more prone to breaking out under stress.

9. Diet

While research has offered inconclusive results on whether diet affects acne or blackhead generation, individuals have observed a correlation between a healthy diet and skin health. It is speculated that dairy items and carbohydrate-rich foods may trigger acne and blackhead production. As a result, acne-fighting has been gaining quite some traction amongst those suffering from Blackheads.

10. Smoking

Smoking causes the blockage of skin pores in a top-down fashion. As a result, the sebum that gets produced gets trapped inside and is prone to infection. In fact, a study conducted on 100 participants revealed that 87% of subjects who were smokers showed a higher number of comedones. As such, smoking could be directly related to blackhead and whitehead formation.

Can You Get Rid of Blackheads at Home?

Yes! The good news is that you can get rid of Blackheads right at home!

There are many Do-It-Yourself (DIY) ways through which you can get rid of Blackheads. However, if the condition persists, it would be a good idea to consult your dermatologist.

Those suffering from Blackheads often resort to squeezing it out. However, it may cause skin inflammation and lesions that could eventually lead to scarring. In this section, we will explore how to get rid of Blackheads safely.

If you are wondering what to use for Blackheads when treating it at home, then there are many ways to resolve the problem. Here is a list of a few ways through which you can get rid of Blackheads:

• Home Remedies.
• Face Masks or Face Packs.
• Essential Oils.
• Mechanical Methods.

These have been discussed at length below:

CURE 1: Home Remedies for Blackheads

Common home remedies for Blackheads include items that are readily available around your home. You do not have to purchase anything special or specific to get rid of Blackheads, just rummage through your pantry, and you are good to go!

Here are a few tried and tested home remedies for Blackheads:

1. Baking soda for Blackheads

Baking soda, scientifically known as Sodium bicarbonate has been widely used for baking. While its leavening properties are not only useful for cooking, it also has household uses and various health benefits.

Why is it effective?

Baking Soda is considered to be a natural skin exfoliator(2) that possesses antibacterial(3) and antifungal(4) properties. Therefore, you can use baking soda for treating Blackheads in a simple and cost-effective manner. If you have oily or combination type skin that is affected with Blackheads, try out the exfoliator given below.

Ingredients

• A tablespoon of baking powder.
• Two tablespoons of water.

Procedure

1. Mix the water and baking soda powder to make a fine and thick paste.
2. Apply the baking powder paste over the regions affected by Blackheads.
3. Let it sit on your skin for nearly fifteen to twenty minutes.
4. Wash it off with some lukewarm water.

Frequency

Apply this exfoliator daily for best results.

Tips

You can add a few drops of lemon juice or a little toothpaste to the baking soda paste for more effectiveness.

2. Apple cider vinegar for Blackheads

Right from weight loss to blood sugar control, Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) has emerged as a panacea for multitudes of health-related issues. Thus, it does not come as a surprise to use apple cider vinegar for Blackheads as well.

Why is it effective?

Due to its antibacterial properties(5), ACV can get rid of all the surface bacteria that may otherwise clog your pores.

Try out the home remedy given below, which is suitable for all skin types.

Ingredients

• Four to five drops of apple cider vinegar.
• Cotton ball.

Procedure

1. Soak the apple cider vinegar into the cotton balls and run it on the surface of your skin.
2. Allow it to dry.
3. Rinse off the apple cider vinegar with warm water.

Frequency

Follow this remedy daily as it can help you in getting rid of all skin-related issues.

Tips

In case you have sensitive skin, you may dilute the apple cider vinegar in a few drops of distilled water.

3. Toothpaste for Blackheads

Toothpaste can achieve much more than oral health and skincare. In fact, the use of toothpaste for Blackheads removal is also a home remedy that is not unheard of(6). Making use of a mint-based toothpaste is highly preferred for removing Blackheads.

Why is it effective?

Mint toothpaste not only unclogs your pores but it also removes all or any bacteria(7) present on your skin. Plus, it can be used on all types of skin without any adverse effects.

Ingredients

• Mint toothpaste.
• Some water.
• Ice cube.

Procedure

1. Apply the mint toothpaste as a thin layer on the affected area (avoid any lesions or pustules).
2. Allow the coating to dry and let it sit for five to six minutes.
3. Dip your fingers in some water and start massaging the area in circular motions. Continue massaging for a couple of minutes.
4. Rinse off the toothpaste using lukewarm water and rub some ice over the area.

Frequency

Repeat this exercise daily.

Tips

This remedy may strip your skin off all its natural oils, and as such, you must lightly moisturize your skin after it has dried.

4. Glue for Blackheads

Quite recently, the trend of using glue for Blackheads removal has caught on as it went insanely viral over the internet! While dermatologists are still divided on whether it is safe, a number of users have made their point: it actually works!

However, individuals with sensitive skin must avoid this technique at any costs as it may cause inflammation and rashes.

Why is it effective?

Glue has a consistency much similar pore strips. As a result, it can easily take the shape of any region from which you wish to remove Blackheads.

Ingredients

• White PVC glue.
• A pinch of active charcoal.

Procedure

1. Combine the glue and active charcoal into a paste.
2. Apply it on the affected surface and let it dry.
3. Gently peel it off the surface, much like a pore strip.
4. Rinse the area to remove any residue and pat it dry.

Frequency

Since this technique has not been declared as dermatologically safe, it is best to use it only as a one-time, SOS measure.

Tips

As glue can get attached to the delicate hair follicles present on your skin, you must not let it sit for too long. Further, do not apply glue over raw or open skin.

5. Honey for Blackheads

A viscous liquid, and healthier alternative to sugar, honey has been used greatly for health benefits and home remedies. It is a well-known fact that the Egyptians used honey to preserve their dead.

Why is it effective?

Over the centuries, honey has been widely used for its medicinal properties. It contains antibacterial(8) properties that can get rid of all surface bacteria. Since it is a natural, non-abrasive item, it can be used for all skin types. Here’s how you can use honey for removing Blackheads:

Ingredients

• A tablespoon of raw, organic honey.
• A few drops of lemon juice.
• A tablespoon of sugar.

Procedure

1. Mix all the ingredients until it becomes a homogenous paste.
2. Apply it on the skin and leave it on for nearly ten to fifteen minutes.
3. Rinse it off with warm water.

Frequency

For best results, apply this paste daily.

Also Read: Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Blackheads Using Honey

6. Lemon juice for Blackheads

The citrus freshness of lemon juice is capable of rejuvenating your senses. It has various uses and applications in cooking and cleaning. Further, it can boost your metabolic rate that could help with your weight loss efforts.

Why is it effective?

Due to the acidic nature of lemon juice, it can get rid of most skin impurities. Further, it not only lightens the skin complexion but also tightens the skin pores. Yogurt and lemon juice can be used for Blackheads removal. Yogurt counters the skin drying action of lemon juice and provides moisture to the skin. You can use this remedy regardless of your skin type.

Ingredients

• A tablespoon of yogurt.
• A tablespoon of lemon juice.

Procedure

1. Whip the yogurt to a smooth consistency and add lemon juice to it. Combine the two for a soft paste.
2. Apply it to the affected area and gently massage the region using circular motions of your fingertips.
3. Let it sit for about ten to twelve minutes and then rinse it off with warm water.

Frequency

Carry out this process daily for flawless skin.

Tips

You may add a pinch of salt to the paste as it will act as an exfoliator. However, do not scrub your skin for too long as it may damage it.

7. Aloe Vera

Given that Aloe Vera is your skin’s best friend(9), it does not come as a surprise that it is highly effective against Blackheads.

Why is it effective?

Aloe Vera is characterized with thick, fleshy leaves covered in prickly spines. Since centuries, mankind has enjoyed the health benefits offered by Aloe Vera. In addition to its soothing properties, Aloe Vera can cleanse your skin pores and controls the sebum production. As a result, you can easily get rid of Blackheads using aloe vera.

Ingredients

• Fresh Aloe Vera.

Procedure

1. Press on the Aloe Vera frond to extract fresh Aloe Vera gel.
2. Apply it to the affected region.
3. Let it sit for around ten minutes and then rinse it off using lukewarm water.

Frequency

Follow this skincare regimen daily for smoother and clearer skin.

Tips

You can add Aloe Vera gel to clay or mud face packs for increased effectiveness.

CURE 2: Face Packs or Face mask for Blackheads

Applying a face mask for removing Blackheads can be quite effective. These face packs or face masks will not only tackle the Blackheads issue but can also promote the general health of your skin.

1. Charcoal mask for Blackheads

Charcoal masks are much more than a viral internet sensation. They are a savior to those who have oily and acne-prone skin. Charcoal mask for Blackheads removal can drastically clear out your skin(10) and give you the flawless skin of your dreams!

Why is it effective?

Activated charcoal absorbs the dirt from its surroundings and as such, clears out your pores. As a result, you can instantly get rid of all the Blackheads present on your skin.

Ingredients

• A teaspoon of activated charcoal.
• Half a teaspoon of bentonite clay.
• Some water.

Procedure

1. Mix the charcoal and bentonite clay.
2. Add some water to the mixture to make it a medium consistency paste.
3. Apply it all over your face and let it dry for about fifteen to twenty minutes.
4. Rinse off the face using warm water and moisturize your skin.

Frequency

Apply this face mask once or twice in a week.

Tips

Since bentonite clay is reactive and contains metals of its own, do not prepare this face mask in a metal utensil. In its place, make use of wooden or bamboo utensils and spoons.

2. Egg mask for Blackheads

Egg masks became popular due to its ability to make your skin smooth and supple. Further, it feeds collagen to the skin that makes you look youthful.

Why is it effective?

Egg mask for removing Blackheads can be quite effective. This is because of the fact that egg whites not only tighten your skin pores but also remove excess oil from your skin. Therefore, those with oily or combination type skin should give an egg white mask as it will not only get rid of Blackheads but also give your skin a natural glow(11).

Ingredients

• One egg white.
• A teaspoon of honey.

Procedure

1. Gently mix the egg whites and honey. Do not whip or beat it to a frothy consistency.
2. Apply the mixture to your face and let it dry for about ten to twelve minutes.
3. Wash it off with warm water.

Frequency

You can use this remedy once or twice a week.

3. Clay mask for Blackheads

Clay mask is highly useful for those battling oily skin. Depending on what you add to your mask, you can add more health benefits to the regular clay mask.

Why is it effective?

Bentonite clay absorbs dirt and other impurities from the face thereby unclogging your pores and clearing them out thoroughly. It also sloughs away dead skin. Further, its antibacterial properties(12) may clay masks perfect for treating Blackheads.

Ingredients

• A tablespoon of bentonite clay.
• Some water.

Procedure

1. Combine the water with the clay powder to make a medium consistency paste.
2. Apply it over your face and let it dry. Typically, it takes a couple of minutes.
3. Rinse off the face mask using lukewarm water. Pat dry your face and lightly moisturize.

Frequency

You can follow this regimen once or twice a week.

Tips

If you suffer from skin sensitivity, you can make use of raw milk in place of water.

4. Mud mask for Blackheads

Mud masks can detoxify your skin and bring a glow to your face. Plus, it can work with all skin types, which makes it invaluable for anybody with skin issues.

Why is it effective?

Mud masks are pretty effective against oily skin as it removes all the excess oil without stripping your skin off its natural oils. As a result, mud mask for Blackheads removal can be quite an effective way to pamper your skin.

Ingredients

• Two teaspoons of French green clay.
• Some water.
• Two teaspoons of olive oil.
• A teaspoon of poppy seeds.

Procedure

1. Mix all the ingredients in a wooden bowl and make it into a smooth paste.
2. Prep your skin by washing it with warm water, then pat it dry.
3. Apply the paste to your face and let it dry.
4. Dip your fingers in warm water and begin massaging your face in circular motions.
5. Soak a rag cloth in some lukewarm water and gently remove the mask from your face.

Frequency

Do this exercise once a month for Blackheads-free skin.

5. Tomato Face Mask

Tomato is a berry obtained from Solanum Lycopersicum. It is a widely known fact that tomatoes mask can help to reverse tanning. However, it is also useful for clearing your skin.

Why is it effective?

Tomato contains naturally occurring antibacterial agents that can dry out Blackheads(13). Further, the lycopene present in tomato contains potent antioxidant properties that not only lighten your skin complexion but also reverse the damaging effects of free radicals(14).

Ingredients

• A small tomato.

Procedure

1. Puree the tomato into a thick paste.
2. Apply it over the blackhead infested region before you go to sleep.
3. Let it sit overnight and wash it with warm water the next morning.

Frequency

You can do this every night before you go to bed.

Tips

In case you have sensitive skin, dilute the tomato paste in equal parts of water.

6. Oatmeal and Milk Face Mask

Oats are gluten-free, whole grain food products that make a perfect breakfast option. It contains a healthy amount of dietary fibers that can fix your gut. However, oatmeal is also useful for clearing your skin.

Why is it effective?

Oatmeal can get rid of excess sebum without drying out your skin. Further, it is a natural exfoliator and as such, will slough away all the dead skin present on the epidermis. On the other hand, milk is a rich source of lactic acid, which can help eliminate Blackheads(15).

Ingredients

• Two tablespoons of oatmeal.
• Three tablespoons of raw milk.
• Four to five drops of lemon juice.
• One tablespoon of olive oil.
• A pinch of sea salt or cinnamon.

Procedure

1. Soak the oatmeal in raw milk overnight. On the following day, mix the lemon juice, olive oil, and sea salt/cinnamon to the paste.
2. Prep your face by washing it with lukewarm water and patting it dry.
3. Apply the face mask and allow it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Rinse off the face mask using warm water.

Frequency

Do this once or twice in a week.

Tips

You could substitute milk with yogurt if you have dry skin. You can also add a tablespoon of raw, organic honey to make this face mask a potent cure for Blackheads.

CURE 3: Essential oils for Blackheads

Essential oils are generally known for their healing properties. It can be quite useful for those having dry or combination type skin and yet suffer from Blackheads. However, in addition to essential oils, carrier oils have also been proven to be quite effective against Blackheads. Given that carrier oils are much more accessible and affordable than essential oils, it is the go-to home remedy for those looking to clear their skin on a budget.

Here is how you can use a carrier oil and essential oils for clearing Blackheads:

1. Jojoba Oil

The seeds of Simmondsia Chinensis yield jojoba oil. The shrub is a native of South America and surrounding regions. Jojoba oil is widely used for skin and hair care.

Why is it effective?

The composition of jojoba oil is much like the body’s naturally-occurring oil. When you apply jojoba oil to your skin, it decreases the production of excess sebum and as a result, prevents the clogging of pores(16).

Ingredients

• A few drops of jojoba oil.

Procedure

1. Rinse the affected area with lukewarm water and pat it dry.
2. Massage the region with jojoba oil and leave it for 5 to 10 minutes.
3. Rinse off the area with lukewarm water once again.

Frequency

For best results, carry out this exercise twice a day.

Tips

You can even add a few drops of tea tree oil to jojoba oil to increase its efficacy.

2. Tea tree oil for Blackheads

Tea tree oil is like the holy grail amongst all the essential oils. It offers a host of healthy properties to anybody who uses it.

Why is it effective?

Tea Tree oil contains strong disinfecting properties. It has the capability of penetrating through the pore blockages and clearing out the skin pores. Further, it has the capacity of drying out Blackheads and whiteheads. The anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil also soothe the skin.

You could add a few drops of tea tree oil for Blackheads removal in your face pack or face mask. Further, you can mix it with a carrier and apply a light layer to the affected area. However, if you wish to take on the Blackheads present on tough to reach spots like your private areas, back, and buttocks, you could draw a comfortable tea tree oil bath.

Here’s how:

Ingredients

• A bath containing warm water.
• Two cups of Epsom salt.
• A teaspoon of tea tree oil.

Procedure

1. Draw a hot bath and add the tea tree oil and Epsom salt to it.
2. Soak in the bath for about 30 to 45 minutes.
3. Step out from the bath, and pat dry your body.

Frequency

You can do this once or twice a week.

Tips

To enjoy a more relaxing experience, you can add a few drops of lavender oil to your bath.

3. Coconut oil for Blackheads

For ages, coconut oil has promoted the growth of thick and lustrous hair. Interestingly, it may come as a surprise, but coconut oil is quite effective for Blackheads removal.

Why is it effective?

Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which is an anti-microbial agent(17) the removal of dirt, microbes, and any impurities prevent Blackheads. Plus, it helps in getting rid of dead skin(18) present on the surface.

Ingredients

• A few drops of pure and organic coconut oil.

Procedure

1. Apply the coconut oil over the affected region and massage it in a circular motion.
2. Allow it to get absorbed into your skin.

Frequency

You can do this every night before you go to sleep.

Also Read: 13 benefits of coconut oil for babies

4. Castor Oil

Castor oil is a pale yellow vegetable-based oil that comes from pressing castor beans. The cleansing properties of Castor oil are well-known in the Indian and African subcontinent. Further, it also helps with constipation and arthritis.

Why is it effective?

Castor oil removes dead skin, debris, and other impurities from the skin. Due to its purifying qualities, it can unclog your pores(19) that eventually lead to Blackheads.

Ingredients

• Some four to five drops of castor oil.

Procedure

1. Prep your skin by washing it with lukewarm water.
2. Apply a thin coating of castor oil on the affected area and gently massage it for a few minutes.
3. Let it stay on your skin. If it feels too sticky, you can dip a cotton ball in some lukewarm water and wipe the oil off your skin.

Frequency

Do it every night before you go to bed.

5. Clary Sage Oil

Clary Sage oil is extracted from Salvia sclarea. The flower of this herb is pale yellow and bears a sweet-smelling odor. This essential oil forms a base for many perfumes.

Why is it effective?

Aromatherapists use clary sage oil to reap the healing and calming qualities. However, what makes it really helpful in skincare routine is its ability to cure clogged pores. As a result, it is effective against Blackheads and acne.

Ingredients

• 20 to 25 drops of clary sage oil.
• Face cream or body oil.

Procedure

1. Incorporate the essential clary sage oil in the face cream or body lotion.
2. Apply the cream or lotion on the affected area and gently massage it until the skin absorbs it.

Frequency

Do this once a day before you go to bed.

CURE 4: Mechanical Methods

Following are some other methods of blackhead removal are given as under:

Steam Removal of Blackheads

Steaming is the go-to home remedy for cold and cough. It has the capacity to relax the mind and also clears out the skin. Steam offers a healthy glow to your skin.

Why is it effective?

Hot steam opens up your pores, and if you follow it up with skin exfoliation, then it will dislodge any impurity blocking your skin pores. Steaming your skin also promotes blood circulation(20) and removes toxins and any other contaminants. It is, by far, the simplest remedy for getting rid of Blackheads.

Ingredients

• A hot steam device or hot water in a small tub.
• Towel.

Procedure

1. Turn on the steaming device or pour the boiling water into the tub.
2. Place your face above the steam and cover your head with a towel to prevent the steam from escaping. If it gets too stuffy and uncomfortable, let out some steam from the sides.
3. Steam your face for about one to two minutes.

Frequency

Do this two to three times a week.

Tips

Follow it up with natural face scrubs or exfoliators like sea salt or brown sugar to clear your skin.

Blackhead Removal Through Instruments

There are a number of blackhead removal kits available that will help you extract Blackheads like the satisfying videos that you see online. Most kits come with user instructions and manuals that can help you remove Blackheads like a pro. The most conventional form of blackhead removal instrument is the good old blackhead needle. These usually are electroplated stainless steel needles that are easy to grip and do not cause any irritation.

If you are looking for something more fancy and complex, there are microdermabrasion and suction tools that you can use at home to completely get rid of Blackheads.

CURE 5: Diet for Blackheads

As stated before, your diet could have direct links to your skin health, and thus, it is important to watch what you eat. Here’s a quick roundup for what’s good for Blackheads removal and the food items that you must avoid at all costs:

Foods to Include in Your Diet

• Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries.
• Fruits rich in Vitamin-C such as papaya, apple, oranges, and other citrus fruits.
• Vegetables, like tomatoes, cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbage.
• Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, mustard greens, and collard.
• Omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods like walnuts.

Foods That You May Avoid or Skip

• Fried and fatty food items.
• High carb and high sugar foods.
• Milk and dairy items like cheese.
• Shellfish.
• Eggs.
• Chocolate.
• High-fat nuts.
• Ripe mangoes.
• Avocado.

Tips on How to Prevent Blackheads

Here are a few tips on how to reduce Blackheads:

1. Wash your face frequently with lukewarm water to prevent any form of buildup in or around your pores. However, restrict this activity to twice a day as overwashing your skin may cause it to become dry.
2. Take off your makeup or any cosmetic products completely before going to sleep.
3. If you have excessively oily skin, consider investing in a high-quality oil-free face cleanser.
4. If you participate in vigorous activities, like working out and exercising, take a quick shower after such strenuous activities.
5. Identify your skin type and use skin products accordingly.
6. Use a gentle exfoliator to exfoliate your skin regularly.
7. Consider switching to non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic skin products and cosmetics.
8. Avoid picking at your skin or squeezing out the Blackheads.
9. Use a blackhead extractor to remove any stubborn or large Blackheads. However, steam your face or massage your face with deep pore cleansing milk before extracting.
10. Wear loose-fitting cotton garments to absorb any sweat and to prevent any irritation to your skin. Use a mild detergent to wash all the cloth articles that come in contact with your skin, including pillowcases and bedsheets.
11. Drink sufficient amount of water to maintain skin’s health.
12. Use skin care products that contain lactic or salicylic acid as it will thoroughly clean your skin.

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FAQs

Now that you know how to get rid of Blackheads, you may have a few doubts and queries niggling in your mind. These will be addressed below.

1. Do Blackheads Go Away?

Unfortunately no, Blackheads do not go away on their own. However, you can get rid of them if you care for your skin and carry out a few maintenance activities. Further, you need to carry out preventive skincare routine to prevent Blackheads from reappearing.

2. What is the best way to get rid of Blackheads?

There is no magical cure for getting rid of Blackheads. It is about finding the best technique or home remedy that works for you. Experiment with the blackhead cures shared above and pick the ones that best suit your skin.

3. What Happens When You do not Treat Blackheads?

Unfortunately, Blackheads do not go away by themselves. Thus, it is important that you regularly cleanse your skin and extract all the Blackheads. If they are left untreated, they may get bigger and even get infected. This could result in lesions and scarring of your skin. In some cases, you may also end up with tiny pockmarks in your skin.

4. How Effective is Pore Strips in Blackhead Removal?

While Pore Strips blew up as an effective technique against Blackheads removal, the myths surrounding it was soon dispelled. Pore strips were considered effective on the logic that the glue on the pore strips attach to the blackhead and dislodge it from the pore.

However, all it does is remove the plug of the Blackheads, exposing the open pore that is once again prone to blackhead formation through oxidation. Further, not all Blackheads are present on the surface of the skin; some are even present below the surface. As such, pore strips are not the miracle cure for getting rid of Blackheads.

Now that you are equipped with the knowledge of what to do for Blackheads removal, you can easily get rid of the pesky skin blemishes. There are a number of remedies and techniques listed here that are not only simple but also cost-effective. Feel free to choose the ones that seem feasible and are suited for your skin.

Along with that, remember to follow a healthy diet and stick to all the preventive measures to avoid them from reoccurring. Hygiene plays a crucial role in determining your skin health. As such, make it a habit to religiously wash your face twice a day to prevent the clogging of your pores. When it comes to exfoliation, do not get too harsh while scrubbing your skin. It may do more harm than good.

If, for some reason, your Blackheads are too stubborn and refuse to go, consult a dermatologist to seek professional help.