One of the most prevalent types of acne is blackheads. Blackheads are more common in individuals with oily skin, although they can happen to anybody.
Pores get blocked due to a mix of dead skin cells and excess oil (sebum) produced by your sebaceous glands. Unlike whiteheads, which have closed pores, blackheads have open surfaces, resulting in dark-colored oxidation.
It may be tempting to squeeze or force the black plug out, but doing so may result in scarring and other skin harm. So, what is the best way to get rid of blackheads? Read on to find out!
How to get rid of blackheads?
1. Use salicylic acid to cleanse
Look for over-the-counter (OTC) treatments that include salicylic acid instead of benzoyl peroxide.
Because it breaks down the components that block pores (dead skin cells and excess oil), salicylic acid is the recommended ingredient for treating blackheads and whiteheads:
You can eliminate these components and others (daily dirt, oil, makeup) by using a daily cleanser containing salicylic acid. Although you should still wash your face twice a day, start using a cleanser with salicylic acid just once a day.
2. Use AHAs and BHAs to exfoliate gently
You may have heard that exfoliating had a harmful impact on acne in the past. This is especially true for inflammatory acne since the condition may exacerbate redness and irritation.
On the other hand, regular exfoliation may help eliminate excessive dead skin cells that block pores and cause blackheads. Existing blackheads may be carefully removed throughout the procedure.
Instead of looking for harsh scrubs, seek alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs). The most prevalent form of AHA is glycolic acid, while salicylic acid is a popular BHA.
3. Get a skin brush
A skin brush may offer comparable exfoliating effects as AHAs and BHAs by eliminating dead skin cells.
On the other hand, skin brushes should only be used occasionally with a mild cleaning wash, and if you have sensitive skin, you should avoid using them entirely.
A range of skin brushes is available to use with your daily cleanser, depending on your requirements and budget.
4. Use topical retinoids
Retinoids may help unclog pores, which can assist with persistent acne. Other OTC medications may be more effective due to this procedure since they are more able to penetrate the follicle. If you have dry skin, though, stay away from harsh exfoliants like retinoids.
5. Use a clay mask
Clay masks assist in unclogging pores by drawing oils and impurities out of the skin. Clay masks are often recommended for oily skin. Sulfur is also included in certain clay masks. Sulfur is another component that helps to break down the dead skin cells that cause blackheads.
You can apply any mask once a week in addition to your once- or twice-weekly exfoliating treatment, regardless of which one you choose.
6. Apply a charcoal mask
Charcoal masks, like clay masks, pull oil and other impurities deep into the skin. These advantages are believed to be amplified by the charcoal component.
7. Try chemical peels
Chemical peels have long been used to treat anti-aging problems, including age spots and fine wrinkles. AHAs or BHAs are often used in peels, and they work by exfoliating the skin.
After going through the procedure, the skin should seem smoother and more rejuvenated. Chemical peels may potentially remove dead skin cells and reduce enlarged pores, but they aren’t considered the main therapy for blackheads.
If you’re also seeking anti-aging effects, this treatment technique may be particularly beneficial.
In a Nutshell
Make sure to use non-comedogenic makeup and face products, along with cleanser, mask, exfoliator, and acne scar removal cream in the world to get the best results.
The term “non-comedogenic” refers to a product that will not produce comedones or blocked pores. Read the label carefully since not all items are non-comedogenic. Last but not least, refrain from squeezing or forcing the black plug out as it can cause scarring and other skin harm. Although acne scar removal creams, such as Hiruscar Post Acne Cream, can help significantly reduce acne scar that takes a long time to heal, it is still not recommended to squeeze or force the black plug out. For more information, feel free to get in touch with us.
