Here’s how to effectively get rid of blackheads at home
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Blackheads, so aptly named for the black spots they make on our face. And if there’s one thing no one likes about blackheads is how easily they pop up and how annoyingly hard it is to get rid of them. Here’s a quick rundown of what causes blackheads and how to get rid of them effectively.
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Why are blackheads black?
What gives blackheads their black colour? Contrary to what you might think, it’s not dirt but from the oxidation (ie. exposure to oxygen) of oils and cells that have been trapped in your pores. The difference between a blackhead and whitehead is simply the presence of a thin layer of skin. This thin layer of skin covers the white pus underneath so it can’t oxidize.
Do some people have more blackheads than others?
While everyone will get blackheads at some point, there are some who have a genetic predisposition for the cells lining the pore to mix with excess oil. This could lend some comfort to those who have a good skincare routine in place and somehow frequently find themselves still with lots of blackheads. Unfortunately, those with oily skin are more likely to have blackheads and that’s the truth.
Why are there more blackheads around my nose?
Speaking of oily skin, the nose has more oil glands than the rest of your face. This makes it a hotspot for clogged pores. Plus the pores in this part of the face are larger and more numerous.
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So how do we get rid of blackheads?
There are no quick and fast rules when it comes to getting rid of blackheads. It requires dedication and daily maintenance. One effective way is to regularly exfoliate your skin with chemical exfoliants such as glycolic and salicylic acids, in the form of cleansers, pads, and toners.
On top of that, do include some physical exfoliation in your regime. Aim to do this 2 to 3 times a week with a good exfoliating scrub but be sure to gently massage the scrub in. Do not exert too much force as this could be irritate your skin.
If you're trying to get rid of existing blackheads, follow all of that advice and add in some physical exfoliation. Three times per week, at the end of your shower when the
