What are blackheads?
Blackheads are small bumps that form on your skin when dead skin cells and oil become trapped and clog your pores. They are called blackheads because when reacting with oxygen, they appear as small dark dots on your skin. They are a mild form of acne and usually appear on your nose and chin but they can also appear on your chest, arms, back, neck, forehead and shoulders.
How to get rid of them?
- Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate! Look out for chemical exfoliants which contain salicylic acid as it helps to unclog your pores as well as decrease oil buildup.
- Ramp up the retinols! Derivatives of vitamin A can help unclog your pores through encouraging cell turnover by reducing the stickiness of cells which helps to clear out the debris from our pores. Apply at night, around 20-25 minutes after washing your face. Try to apply every night, however if your skin is sensitive every 2-3 nights is also okay.
- Visit a dermatologist! They may be able to help through:
- Extractions: using special tools to apply pressure to your nose to loosen and release the sebum from your pores. Do not attempt to remove blackheads yourself as this may cause more damage if not done professionally.
- Microdermabrasion: uses fine crystals and a vacuum to remove dead skin cells.
- Chemical peels: remove cells from the topmost layer of your skin to speed up skin renewal.
How to prevent them from coming back?
- Mask up with clay! Clay masks help to extract impurities from your skin in a gentle manner without damaging it like pore strips do. It also helps to absorb excess oil and dead skin through capillary action. Aim to apply a mask 1-2 times a week, leave on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off.
- Moisturiser is your new best friend! A moisturiser will help to protect your skin from external environmental aggressors which may block your pores. Ensure to moisturise twice daily.
- Cleanse twice a day! Wash your face with a gentle cleanser that contains salicylic acid to ensure excess oil, dirt and bacteria do not clog your pores.
- Use non comedogenic products! These products are specially formulated to not block your pores, thus reducing your risk of contracting blackheads.
- Hygiene! Ensure your change your pillowcase often. Limit how many times you touch your face. Shower after you go to the gym or do any form of exercise. Do not sleep in your makeup.
Sample skincare routine ( by Healthline)
Day 1
- gentle cleanser and moisturizer with SPF in the morning
- oil-free moisturizer as needed during the day
- gentle cleanser at night
- retinoid at night
Day 2
- gentle cleanser and moisturizer with SPF in the morning
- re-moisturize as needed during the day
- cleanser with 4% benzoyl peroxide or 4% salicylic acid at night
- skin serum at night
Day 3
- gentle cleanser and moisturizer with SPF in the morning
- re-moisturize as needed during the day
- gentle cleanser at night
- retinoid at night
Day 4
- gentle cleanser and moisturizer with SPF in the morning
- re-moisturize as needed during the day
- cleanser with 4% benzoyl peroxide or4% salicylic acid at night
- skin serum at night
Day 5
- gentle cleanser and moisturizer with SPF in the morning
- re-moisturize as needed during the day
- gentle cleanser at night
- retinoid at night
Day 6
- gentle cleanser and moisturizer with SPF in the morning
- re-moisturize as needed during the day
- cleanser with 4% benzoyl peroxide or4% salicylic acid at night
- skin serum at night
Day 7
- gentle cleanser and moisturizer with SPF in the morning
- re-moisturize as needed during the day
- gentle cleanser at night
- retinoid at night
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