Blackheads are a common and irritating problem. It occurs when our pores become clogged by dead skin cells and sebum. This skin blemish can vary in sizes and color. However, blackheads and whiteheads are different. The two varies depending on the condition of the pores. Whiteheads have closed pores while blackheads have open pores. When the pore is left open, the dead skin cells and sebum that block it, is oxidized when in contact with the oxygen in the air causing it to turn dark or black. Let us get it straight from the beginning, blackheads are not caused by dirt build-up. This may look like dirt, but it’s not. However, not cleaning properly or enough can cause the build-up. This mostly occurs due to the sebum production and the condition of the pores.
Excessive scrubbing your skin to remove your blackheads can irritate the skin and make it worse. You’ll end up damaging your skin and making it dry. When your skin feels like it is lacking moisture it will produce more sebum or oil to make up for everything you stripped away, causing further build-up. It can be an irritating cycle. So, overly treating your blackheads is never a good idea. When using the remedies below, do not use them for more than two to three times a week. Pore strips and sugar scrub can damage the skin when used excessively. Picking at your blackheads can be hard to resist, but trust us; your skin will feel way better.
Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay is a rich and a healing mineral substance that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It was used to treat different ailments, but is mostly used for skin related problems. What makes this effective for skin problems is its molecules. When wet the molecules of the clay can help remove impurities deep in the pores and can also draw out oils on the skin. When applying the bentonite clay on the skin, the minerals in it absorb by the clay and help draw out the blackheads. This clay can also help boost circulation, improving overall health and skin tone. You can mix with other ingredients to your bentonite mask. Water and apple cider vinegar can be added to the clay. If you do have sensitive or dry skin opt for just water. Apply the mask all over your face and allow it to tighten and dry. Once it is completely dry, rinse it off with cold water. The mixture portion is one tablespoon bentonite clay and 2 teaspoons of water or apple cider vinegar.
Egg Whites Mask
These common and easy to make mask not only great for moisturizing the skin, but can also reduce the chances of getting blackheads. This mask can help tighten the pores and remove the blackheads present on the skin. Egg whites are rich in vitamin and nutrients essential to the skin. This natural remedy can be less drying than some of the other remedies on this list. To create this mask you will need a small bowl, a clean towel, one egg and facial tissue. Crack the egg and separate the yolk (refrigerate the yolk for future use), place it in the small bowl. Rinse your face and remove any facial products. Pat your skin dry and apply a thin layer of egg white onto your skin. You have two options after this step. You can leave this layer as is and add another layer when it tightens and rinse it off or apply facial tissue on the skin and press it on gently. Leave it to dry and apply a second layer of egg white on top of the tissue, repeat this process after the second layer dries. Now, gently rip of the layers and cleanse the skin.
Honey and Milk Strips
Milk and honey are great for the skin. Milk contains nutrients and minerals that can help with the skin’s moisture and help and honey contains antibacterial properties. When mix together the two can work as a powerful adhesive. Mix one tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of milk together. Heat the mixture for five to ten seconds in the microwave and mix again. Allow it to cool off, test the mixture on your hands before applying to the face. Apply this mixture on the desired area and place a clean strip of cotton on top. Leave it to dry for twenty minutes and remove the strip. Rinse your face with cold water and moisturize.
People that have larger pores and oily skin are more prone to getting black heads. When you constantly face black heads, opt for products that are light on the skin. You can also use pore minimizing products and use cold creams to help limit the build-up.
