Blackhead Removal: Busting The Blackhead Bandits

Written by Sania Dhirwani25th Sep 2023
Blackhead Removal: Busting the Blackhead Bandits

You may go to a salon for a relaxing session, but your ever-so-kind parlour ‘aunty’ will not fail to bring to your notice those tiny, little, pesky blackheads that you have been avoiding. They may be hidden from the naked eye, but not from the magnifying eyes of your salon lady. These stubborn intruders, with their dark, pore-clogging presence, have caused frustration and despair for many. But fear not, there are several blackhead removal techniques and procedures that are effective in addressing them. We will talk about in detail on how to remove blackheads from nose, which blackhead removal tool to use and how to prevent the occurrence of these from time to time.    

Blackhead Removal: Busting the Blackhead Bandits 

Blackheads are a common and often frustrating skin issue that many people experience. They are a type of acne lesion that can affect individuals of all ages and skin types. These dark spots can appear on various parts of the body but are most commonly found on the face, particularly in the T-zone i.e., nose, chin and forehead. Managing blackheads involves a combination of proper skin care, regular cleansing, exfoliation and sometimes professional treatments like chemical peels or extractions by a dermatologist. Read on below to know what blackheads are, how are they formed and top methods on how to remove blackheads at home.  

Understanding Blackheads 

blackhead-removal

Blackheads, also known as open comedones, form when hair follicles become clogged with a combination of excess sebum and dead skin cells. The open pore at the surface allows air to reach the trapped material, leading to oxidation and the dark colour. The presence of blackheads can create an uneven texture on the skin’s surface, making it feel rough and bumpy. Repeated blackhead formation and removal can stretch the pores, leading to the appearance of larger pores which can be a long-term concern for some individuals.  

Top Methods for Blackhead Removal 

blackhead-removal

1. Exfoliation:

Exfoliation is an essential step in blackhead removal and prevention because it helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. Gentle physical exfoliation using a scrub or exfoliating brush can help remove the top layer of dead skin cells which can contribute to blackhead formation. Use gentle, circular motions and avoid excessive pressure to prevent skin irritation.  

We recommend using Lakme Blush & Glow Orange Walnut Gel Scrub. This gel scrub gives you power of scrub and softness of gel together and helps you gently deep clean the skin without making it dry. This scrub washes away dirt, blackheads and dead skin cells from deep within to give a moisturised smooth and clean skin that glows.  

blackhead-removal

2. Steam and Extraction:

This is one of the popular methods of blackhead removal at home. Steaming helps soften and open up pores, making it easier to extract the blackheads safely and with less discomfort. Boil some water and position your face about 12 to 18 inches above the bowl of hot water. Drape a towel over your head to create a tent that captures the steam. Steam your face for five to 10 minutes. Using a sanitised comedone extractor, apply gentle, even pressure around the blackhead’s edges. This should encourage the blackhead to come out. After you’ve extracted the blackheads, rinse your face with cold water to help close the pores.  

blackhead-removal

3. Salicylic Acid:

Salicylic acid is a highly effective and commonly used ingredient for blackhead removal and prevention. It is a type of beta hydroxy acid (BHA) known for its ability to penetrate oil-filled pores and exfoliate the inside of hair follicles. It helps to break down and dissolve the substance that clogs pores, including debris that forms blackheads. You can choose products containing salicylic acid such as cleansers, toners, serums or peels.  

blackhead-removal

4. Clay Masks:

They can be a valuable addition to your skin care routine for blackhead removal. They work by drawing our impurities, absorbing excess oil and helping to unclog pores which can reduce the appearance of blackheads. Choose clay masks such as those containing bentonite or kaolin clay. Apply clay mask to your face. Allow the mask to dry for around 10 to 20 minutes. Use lukewarm water to gently rinse off the mask. Apply a non-comedogenic moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated.  

Prevention and Maintenance 

blackhead-removal

Preventing blackhead formation and maintaining clear, healthy skin requires a consistent skin care routine and lifestyle practices. Using a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to wash your face twice a day helps remove excess oil, dirt and makeup from your skin. Choose Simple Daily Skin Detox Purifying Gel Face Wash to fight clogged pores and oily skin. The unique formula is made with a detoxifying blend of thyme, zinc and witch hazel to deeply clean, dirt, oil and makeup while being gentle on the skin. 

Use skin care and makeup products labelled as ‘non-comedogenic’ or ‘oil-free’ to reduce the risk of clogged pores and blackheads. Refrain from squeezing or picking at blackheads with your fingers as this can damage the skin and potentially lead to infection or scarring. Consider occasional professional facials or extractions by a licensed aesthetician or dermatologist to remove stubborn blackheads safely.  

Maintaining a Balanced Diet 

A healthy diet can contribute to clear skin. Maintaining a balanced diet can contribute to overall skin health and help prevent blackhead formation. Foods rich in antioxidants such as fruits, leavy vegetables, nuts and seeds can help protect your skin from oxidative stress and inflammation which can contribute to blackhead formation. Include foods rich in zinc such as lean meats, seafood, nuts and whole grains. Zinc is known to help regulate sebum production and promote skin healing. Staying hydrated is also vital for maintaining skin health. Drinking enough water helps flush toxins from the body and keeps your skin hydrated and supple. 

FAQs about Blackhead Removal 

Q1. What are the risks associated with blackhead removal? 

A. Risks associated with blackhead removal include skin damage, scarring, infection and potential worsening of the condition if not done correctly. 

Q2. How to remove blackheads naturally at home? 

A. Some natural remedies such as honey and cinnamon masks or oatmeal scrubs are believed to help with blackhead removal.  

Q3. Can blackheads turn into other types of acne? 

A. Yes, untreated blackheads can sometimes progress into other forms of acne such as whiteheads, pimples or cysts.  
 

Preventing blackheads requires maintaining good hygiene, using non-comedogenic skin care products and adopting a skin care routine tailored to your skin type. Proper skin care routines can help control sebum production and minimise the risk of blackhead formation, giving you a smoother, clearer complexion. 

Sania Dhirwani

Written by

399 views

Shop This Story