A guide to blackheads removal

Blackheads are caused by a build up of sebum in the pores of the skin. When the sebum makes contact with the air, on the skin’s surface, it oxidises, which is what makes it go black. Simply speaking, a blackhead may be compared to a blocked pore. It follows that unblocking the pore is the way to eliminate the unsightly black mark.

While blackheads are not nearly as unsightly or distressing as full blown acne, don’t forget that they will be prevented by the same means that other forms of acne will. Views on this differ, but it is generally accepted that proper skin care combined with sugar-free diet low in grains and dairy products, can be of great help.

Squeezing blackheads is the best known way to get rid of them. However, some modern facialists argue that this method may not work – not only does it tend not to clear everything out the blocked pore, but it can also cause skin damage by bruising and stretching the area around the blackhead. Blackhead tools which suck the blockage out of the pore have also been popular in the past. Pore strips which are rubbed onto the affected area then pulled off, hopefully taking the blackhead with them, are sworn by as a cure by some, denounced as useless by others.

Many say that the best treatment for blackheads is simply a basic recipe for good skin. Inside – follow a proper diet and make sure that you drink enough water. Cut down or stop smoking, drinking to excess and intake of any other toxins. On the outside, deep cleanse your face daily (certainly a thorough deep cleanse in the evening is essential) and make sure that you use makeup and moisturisers that don’t clog pores.

Once or twice a week, give your skin a special treatment including a facial sauna after cleansing (you can do this by leaning over a bowl of boiled water, using a towel to keep the steam in). If you want to do extractions, then the best time to do it is after the steaming, as the blackheads will come away easiest after this. Regular application of a clay masque may also be of help.

If you can afford it, and really want to maintain good skin, try to go for a facial once every month or so.