What are blackheads?

Blackheads are the result of blocked sebum glands due to excessive hornification. They are increasingly observed in the T zone – the area from the forehead to the nose and chin. Blackheads often appear in connection with  acne  or oily skin, but can also become a burden on normal and dry skin. There are several ways to remove them.

Usually, the first instinct is to squeeze the blackheads with the tip of the fingers or nails; however, this must be avoided. Our hands and fingernails also have bacterial growth on them and if these impurities touch the skin, they may worsen the case.

So firstly, know your skin. Perceive upon use and realize what suits it or not. Generally, use of cosmetics that are considered comedogenic must be completely forbidden as these promote clogged pores – and therefore causes new blackheads.

What do you have to consider when cleaning?

In order to get rid of blackheads on the nose permanently, a gentle but thorough facial cleansing is essential. It is better not to use soap-based cleaning agents because they stimulate the skin to produce only more sebum. PH-neutral and soap-free washing lotions are more suitable. After cleaning, the skin is optimally prepared for further treatment. Occasionally, an enzymatic peel can also be beneficial. Such products remove dead skin cells and smoothens the skin structure. At the same time likes of these also stimulate cell renewal making your skin look and feel better.

What is the difference between mechanical and enzymatic peels?

Mechanical peels contain water-insoluble bodies (eg small balls consisting of sea salt or even microplastics) and remove the dead skin cells by rubbing. This type of peeling stimulates the blood circulation and is immediately effective – but if used too often it can be too abrasive for the facial skin. Enzymatic peels, on the other hand, work solely due to their acidic active ingredients and should be applied by a beautician. They are gentler than the other variants and also have a disinfecting effect. Enzyme peels are particularly suitable for sensitive skin.  Enzymatic peeling: The effective treatment for blackheads should be carried out by a beautician.

Affects of steam bath

Steam baths are a good home remedy for blackheads. Hot water is mixed with various additives, such as chamomile or apple cider vinegar. A steam bath loosens dead skin cells and opens the pores. The skin should be  thoroughly cleaned before the steam bath  . Then pour sufficient amount of hot water into a bowl and add the desired additives. Then hold your face over the bowl and cover your head with a large towel so that no steam can escape. Just be careful of the distance between the hot water and your face. Alternatively, good steamers at a low cost are also available in the market which are safe to use too.

If you have a problem with enlarged veins, you should not heat the water too much and limit the treatment to a maximum of ten minutes. You then remain in this position for ten to twenty minutes. Then pat your face dry and apply a face mask to close the pores back again. You may apply some care cream or moisturizer that suits your skin type.

Tip: After the pores open, the active ingredients of serums and masks can be better absorbed by the skin and this absorption could sometimes be that of bacteria. Make sure your hands are always clean before applying your care cream. Tea tree oil has an antibacterial effect and acts as an ideal toner when diluted, so see if that works for you. To do this, dissolve a few drops in water and dab the mixture onto your face with a cotton pad.

Which face mask is suitable for the prevention of blackheads?

• A healing earth mask is particularly suitable for this. Healing earth/mineral clay is a valuable natural product and one of the oldest home remedies. Before you apply the mask, you should wash your face. For the mask, mix healing earth with a little water to form a spreadable paste. You may also add some rose water to this clay mixture along with water. A generous application avoiding the eye area should be done. Leave this for about 20 minutes or until it is completely dry. Wash this with warm water and witness a glowing skin.
• Another active ingredient is Benzoyl Peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide has similar effect that is similar to tea tree oil. It has a peeling effect and is contained in different concentrations in creams, gels available at the pharmacies. For sensitive skin, you should start with a low-concentration preparation.
• After cleansing the face, apply it to the affected skin areas, a maximum of two application in a day can be done. The duration of treatment depends on tolerance and results and is four to ten weeks. You should wash your hands after each application.
• Salicylic acid is also part of many remedies for blackheads. Just like benzoyl peroxide, it ensures that the top layer of skin peels off, with the result that the pores open and the sebum can drain off.

Porestrips for an immediate effect

Pore strips are available in the drugstore, which can be used to remove blackheads on the nose. For maximum effect, you should press a clean towel dipped in hot water on your skin for ten minutes. This will open the pores. Now press the detached pore strip onto the still damp area and let it dry for about 15 minutes – or until the product feels like a papermache. Then carefully pull up the strip on the side wings. During this process, the blackheads are pulled.

Skin care is important as it reflects your personality. Happy caring for yourself so you can care for others.