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What Are Blackheads?
Blackheads are a form of acne which forms when a skin pore is clogged with oil or dead skin cells. It sounds ghastly, and it looks ghastly. The acne is known to turn black because the contents of the congested skin pore are exposed to oxygen. This pore is said to ‘oxidize’ and subsequently turn black. The darkness of the acne makes it far more visible on the face, and anyone who suffers from blackheads would like to remove them as quickly as possible.
- Harsh Scrubs Or Cleansing Grains?
Many people attempt to remove blackheads through harsh scrubbing. This method is tempting and can include the use of particles such as nutshells, sugar, salt, or beads to scrub off dead skin cells physically. However, this method can irritate the skin, especially when using excessively abrasive formulas or applying too much pressure to the area. Thus, while it may remove the blackhead, it could cause painful and visible trauma to other areas of the skin. Instead of using harsh scrubs, dermatologists suggest using some exfoliants but use more gentle options. These gentle options include rice powder, which can polish away dirt, dead skin cells, oils and impurities, and will flush out the pores without causing the irritation that comes with harsh scrubbing.- Skin Gritting ( Do & Don’t !)
If you have battled against blackheads recently, and if you spend time on social media, you have probably come across a method called skin gritting. Countless photos and videos show people massaging their skin with oil before applying a clay mask. They then go over the blackhead with oil a second time. Once this process is complete, black bits are seen to be extracted from the affected area, and this appears to be a blackhead disappearing from the skin. However, this may not be the case. Experts suggest that the black bits may just be dead skin mixed with the clay that is being used. The method itself is not harmful, according to dermatologists. The weakness with this method is that even though it may prove successful in some cases, double cleansing can strip the skin of moisture, which can lead to other skin problems.- Consider Daily Treatment Pads
Chemical exfoliants are not everyone’s first option when it comes to removing blackheads. People with sensitive and acne-prone skin are known to avoid using them. What has been discovered, though, is that some exfoliants can be gentler to the skin than scrubs. For this reason, many experts recommend the use of daily treatment pads with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or those with beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs)- Use a Night-Time Topical Retinoid
Topical retinoids encourage cellular turnover. That means that they can decongest skin pores and help prevent the formation of future blackheads. As a bonus, topical retinoids also fight blemishes and wrinkles. Topical retinoids are therefore recommended for the fight against blackheads, but it is important to keep something in mind. Retinol can cause photosensitivity, so reach for a night-time formula that works while you sleep. Also, apply a broad-spectrum lotion in the morning with a minimum SPF 30 + to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.- Are Pore Strips helpful?

- What About Clay Masks?
One weapon that has been used in the battle against blackheads for a long time is clay masks. So, are they effective? The short answer is yes. Many dermatologists recommend applying clay masks that can be used weekly. One particular type is Bentonite clay, which is a powerful detoxifier that is famed for its unusual skin-cleaning powers. The mineral-rich Bentonite clay attacks what are known as the four main causes of skin acne; oil production, bacteria, dead skin cells, and clogged pores.How Does It Work?
Basically, when the clay is mixed with water and applied to the skin, it will act as a magnet and draw impurities out of the pores. Also, the mild exfoliating properties help lift away dead skin cells from the area.- Think Long-Term
The key to removing blackheads is to think long-term. As we have discussed already, there are many methods for removing blackheads, and all of them are effective. However, some may only offer short-term success, and you will be left with the task of dealing with the blackheads all over again. For that reason, it is worth investing the necessary time and effort to create a long-term solution to removing blackheads and giving yourself clearly, healthy skin.- Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is regarded as a very effective long-term solution for the removal of blackheads. It dissolves the oil and dead skin, which builds up in pores, and a further advantage is that it can be purchased without a prescription. Salicylic acid can be used on a daily basis to help keep pores clear.- Don’t Sleep On It

- Try Tea Tree
Tea Tree oil is famed for its health benefits as it possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. As a result, it is another powerful weapon in the battle against blackheads. It serves to unblock sebaceous glands, combat breakouts, and remove blackheads in the long term. To enjoy the greatest benefits from tea tree oil, one tried, and true method is to mix it with apple cider vinegar and filtered water. Apply this formula to a cotton ball and apply it to the affected skin. After you have done this, apply a moisturizer for a homemade toning tonic.- Home Remedies
As well as tea tree oil, other natural remedies can be found in the home. Dermatologists suggest using ingredients such as green tea, honey, echinacea, chamomile, witch hazel aloe, lemon, and acidic foods – using different methods to apply each to the skin.- Seek Professional Advice
As with all medical and health issues, it is vital to consult a professional. Before you take any major steps to fix any kind of personal health issue, contact a professional. In the case of blackheads, visit a GP and/or a dermatologist. Not only will you receive accurate, professional advice, but you will also receive follow-up treatments for a long-term solution to the problem, and an expert with years of training in the area will help you to tackle the problem sooner. A medical facial is one specific procedure that is used by professionals to remove blackheads and involves the steaming of the pores. This approach can remove both blackheads and whiteheads. Blackheads can be removed and banished forever. Various methods for their removal exist, and some will be more effective than others. Different skin types will react differently to various approaches, so it is important to find a technique that works for you.