Blackheads are by far one of the most common and stubborn marks on the face – one that simply refuses to budge. If you don’t know already, it is a type of acne. It develops when dead skin cells and our natural oil (sebum) combine to create a plug to clog the pores. Over time, this plug gets oxidised on prolonged exposure to the air and, hence, turns black gradually.
Sometimes these blackheads are comparatively easier to remove with the use of cleansers and exfoliators. While at other times, it becomes a challenge to be removed on its own when the plug is too deep to access and has hardened. In such cases, you need to invest in store-bought products as the only way out to remove them from the core. To deep cleanse blackheads, incorporating skincare actives with exfoliating, pore-clearing, and oil-balancing properties can be beneficial.
The Channel 46 caught up with Aanchal Malhotra Gupta, Co-Founder of amág Beauty, who recommends five skincare actives that can help in deep cleansing blackheads.
5 Skincare Actives That Remove Blackheads
1. Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that effectively penetrates the pores and helps unclog them. It exfoliates the skin, removes dead skin cells, and reduces sebum production, making it a valuable ingredient for targeting blackheads and preventing future breakouts.
2. Retinoids
Retinoids, such as retinol or prescription-strength retinoids like tretinoin, work by increasing cell turnover and preventing the formation of clogged pores. Regular use of retinoids can help to reduce the appearance of blackheads and improve overall skin texture.
3. Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin’s surface, including the clogged pores. It helps to loosen the dead skin cells and debris, revealing smoother and clearer skin. Incorporating glycolic acid into your skincare routine can help reduce the occurrence of blackheads.
4. Niacinamide
Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, has multiple benefits for the skin. It helps regulate sebum production, reduces inflammation, and minimises the appearance of pores. By controlling excess oil and inflammation, niacinamide can contribute to preventing and minimising blackheads.
5. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil possesses anti-bacterial properties that can help control the growth of acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation. It can be used as a spot treatment or diluted in a carrier oil or toner to address blackheads effectively.
Remember to introduce these actives gradually into your skincare routine and follow product instructions for their usage. It’s essential to consider your skin type, sensitivity, and consult a dermatologist if you have any concerns or specific conditions.
5 DIY Home Remedies For Removing Blackheads From The Core
1. Coconut Oil
Coconut has many proven benefits as it is a good moisturizer. This can help relieve dry skin and prevent the blockage of pores with dead and dry skin cells. As a home remedy for blackheads, it can be used daily.
How To Use It:
1. Apply a teaspoon of virgin coconut oil (cold-pressed, if available) on the blackhead areas
2. Leave it on until it is fully absorbed into your skin.
3. Apply it twice daily until effective results.
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera contains zinc that helps tighten the pores and cleanses the skin. This will help remove blackheads on nose and other areas.
How To Use It:
1. Apply fresh aloe vera on blackhead prone areas.
2. Leave it overnight and rinse the area with water in the morning.
3. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a common kitchen item that helps with blackhead removal. Baking soda helps to neutralize any pH imbalance your skin may have, as well as work as an exfoliant to remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells.
How To Use It:
1. Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda and water to form a paste.
2. Massage the paste on the blackheads on nose and the other areas on the face.
3. Rinse with warm water and use a moisturizer afterwards as using baking soda as a remedy for blackheads is drying to the skin.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin which has antibacterial properties and helps in cleansing the pores. Turmeric helps with blackhead removal at home.
How To Use It:
1. Make a paste of turmeric and water.
2. Apply the paste on all blackheads generously and wash it after it dries off completely.
5. Honey
Honey is one of the oldest natural remedies for dry skin. By preventing clogging of pores and dead skin, it helps remove blackheads on the face.
How To Use It:
- Take some honey on a cotton pad.
- Apply on the blackheads and leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing off.
- If you are wondering how to get rid of blackheads on nose, you can use honey as a natural pore strip.
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