Blackheads, also known as open comedones are tiny, dark spots that appear on the surface of your skin. Blackheads are blocked pores (hair follicles) in the skin that are filled with skin debris or keratin and sebum, an oily substance. Blackheads occur mainly on the face and nose and are a common problem among adolescents especially those with oily skin.
The bumps appear dark not because of dirt but as a result of oxidization. This happens when the clogged pores are exposed to the air.
Factors like hormonal changes in the body, excessive use of cosmetic products, improper skin care, stress and genetics contribute to this problem. Blackheads commonly occur on the face, particularly the nose. They can also appear on the chest, back, neck, arms and shoulders. If left untreated, they can spur acne breakouts.
There are many prescription medicines for the treatment of blackheads, but you can always try natural treatments. With simple ingredients easily found in most kitchens, you can treat your blackheads within a few days.
This article will give you tips to get rid of blackheads .
Egg whites help to tighten pores and pull out any clogged dirt giving you smooth, clear skin. Remove the yolks from two eggs and smear it into a thin layer over your face. Give it two minutes to dry, and then add the remaining whites in a second layer. Give the complete mask an additional 10-15 minutes to dry, or until the whites are smooth to the touch and your skin feels tight. Use warm water to rinse the whites off your face.
Oatmeal and Yogurt
The lactic acid in the yogurt and the calming qualities of oatmeal mix to create a blackhead-blocking formula. Make a paste of three tablespoons yogurt, two tablespoons whole oats, and a few drops of lemon juice and olive oil. Mix between your fingers and apply it to the skin by dabbing onto the affected area. Allow it to set for ten minutes, and then rinse off with warm water.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice, also used in acne treatment, can help remove blackheads. The nutrients and vitamins present in lemon juice are good for all skin types. Put a few drops of honey on half a lemon. For extra exfoliation, you can also add a little sugar. Gently rub the lemon on your face, especially on the blackhead prone areas. Rinse it off after 10 minutes. Repeat once or twice a week.
Green Tea
Green tea is great to drink, and also great for refreshing your skin. Packed full of nutrients, a green tea scrub works to remove dirt while supplying your face with healthy antioxidants. Mix a fine green tea mix with a bit of water and rub over your face. If you want, you can leave it to set for 2-3 minutes after your scrub, and then simply rinse off with warm water.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is an effective treatment for blackheads as well as acne. It helps clear the skin of impurities such as debris and dirt. Mix two teaspoons of baking soda with mineral water to make a paste. Apply the paste generously on the affected skin area and massage gently. Allow it to dry for a few minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Repeat this remedy once or twice a week.
Milk
Possibly the best smelling exfoliant, the lactic acid of milk combined with the tough granules of nutmeg remove your blackheads quickly and in a pain-free manner. Mix a tablespoon of milk (particularly buttermilk) with enough nutmeg to create a paste. Apply this mixture to your face while gently scrubbing to remove dead skin and dirt. Then use regular warm water to rinse the mixture clear of your skin
Clay Mask
There are many different kinds of cosmetic clay available to purchase in a powdered form, each with the specialized property of drying out oily pores and removing unwanted residue. Mix a tablespoon of powdered clay with enough apple cider vinegar to make a paste, and spread it over your face. Leave it for 10-15 minutes until it is dry to the touch, and then rinse off with warm water.
Honey and Cinnamon Paste
Honey has antibacterial properties that will help in keeping the bacteria away as well as will act as an adhesive that can pull out anything in the pores of your skin. Cinnamon is a natural healer that will help in improving the blood circulation to make skin look smooth and healthy as well as glowing. Cinnamon and honey together make a delicious candy. They are equally good on your skin and will work effectively in giving you the solution to blackhead problems.
In a small bowl, mix one part of cinnamon powder with one part of raw and pure organic honey. You should be having enough paste so that it covers all the affected area. Apply a thin layer of the cinnamon and honey paste on the blackheads and then fix a small strip of clean and dry cloth over this paste. Pat it and ensure that it sticks onto the paste firmly. Allow the mixture to rest on the blackheads for five minutes. Now remove the strip carefully and wash your face with lukewarm water.
