Acne is an inevitable part of being human as the sebum production and shedding of old skin contribute to this skin issue. However, amongst all types of skin bumps, the most common are blackheads, as they are prevalent in people of various skin types - oily, dry, or combination.
While this development isn't detrimental to one's health, it does degrade one's visual appeal as the skin appears rough and unkempt. Furthermore, trying to remedy this growth by pinching and pushing the black mass often results in further complications and swelling.
Fortunately, there's good news, methods, and products exist that can help eliminate your blackheads and reduce your risk of developing new ones in the future, and this article will reveal them.
Cause of Blackheads
Before providing tips and tricks to remove blackheads, it's best first to explain how to form, enabling avoid possible triggers.
Based on current research, blackheads arise when hair follicles get clogged by dead skin cells and grime, transported by the body's oil. The need to release oil combined with the blockade results in bumps and exposure to fresh air causes the surface to blacken, forming blackheads.
It's worth noting that blackheads are a type of acne known as hormonal acne or acne vulgaris; they rapidly appear during hormonal changes such as puberty, pregnancy, and menstruation. Additionally, blackheads can form when hair follicles get irritated by dead skin discarded by the body.
While home remedies like popping the bump can rectify the swelling, they can also result in inflammation and other complications that may result in a visit to the dermatologist.
Tips to Remove Blackheads
Below are the top surefire tips with steps to remove blackheads and make your skin as smooth as possible. Note that these remedies include products that require minimal investment; therefore, read thoroughly and according to your budget and product availability.
Exfoliate with AHAs and BHAs
Exfoliation is a verified method that works perfectly against acne development as the process involves the timely removal of dead and dried skin off the surface. This action results in little to no bumps as there is no material to clog the pore and follicles.
However, exfoliating with harsh scrubs - especially on inflammatory acne - can produce negative results like irritation and redness. Therefore, focus on using chemical exfoliants containing alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs) as they are mild and gentle on the skin.
These compounds work well with removing the top dead layer of the skin, reducing the tendency of acne development, and rectifying wrinkles and age spots. As a result, they are a common first choice for most dermatologists.
Apply Salicylic Acid
A typical over-the-counter product that fights against blackheads is salicylic acid since it's effective at dissolving the oil and light skin tissue blocking the pores. Therefore, cleansing the skin with a product containing salicylic acid is guaranteed to reduce or eliminate your chances of developing blackheads.
Note that few people have adverse skin reactions to salicylic acid, and for this reason, be observant of irritations or redness after using the product. If such problems manifest, discontinue the usage and try a different option.
Use a skin Brush
As previously I was tired, exfoliation is a standard method for preventing the emergence of acne. Still, if you're sensitive to the compounds found in chemical exfoliants, you can opt for a skin Brush.
A skin brush will provide you with the same result as exfoliating with a chemical exfoliant, removing the dead cells and preventing entry into the pores. However, you should excessively employ this item as occasional usage is preferred for optimum results.
Note that multiple skin brushes exist for each different bristle and price tags, allowing you to choose according to your budget and skin type.
Activated Charcoal Mask
Activated charcoal is a standard beauty product used to extract toxins, bacteria, and other substances from the face to restore its beauty. This item is practical due to its ability to absorb content, meaning a Charcoal mask can liberate the blocking oil and dry skin pores, thereby reducing the inflammation.
Naturally, activated charcoal comes with a host of other Skincare benefits, and getting one is as easy as searching on Amazon.
Apply Topical Retinoids
Besides containing a host of ingredients to beautify the skin, it's also helpful to unclog pores during stubborn acne cases. Additionally, the presence of Retinoids makes other OTC products more effective as they get absorbed into the pores better.
However, this remedy isn't recommended for dry skins as they most likely result in irritations and mild discomforts.
Bonus Tips:
Ensure to not fall asleep without completely wiping your face of makeup; this tip is essential because the last thing most people prefer to do after a long day is to wash off their makeup painfully.
Unfortunately, this negligence contributed to the development of blackheads as the product seeps into the pores, resulting in blockage and inflammation. We recommend using a cleanser or dedicated makeup remover to wash the face before falling asleep.
This simple practice is guaranteed to reduce your chances of frequent blackheads.
Conclusion
Blackheads are an unwanted occurrence, and these presented tips are sufficient to remedy the situation; however, it's important to note that these options may take a week or two to be effective.
If you still struggle with blackheads after applying any of the above-listed options, consult a dermatologist for thorough analysis and treatment.
Cleanlogic Detoxify Sensitive Skin Dual-Texture Charcoal Facial Buffer – Cleanlogic Body Care
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