Getting rid of blackheads the usual way can be quite complicated and expensive. While many have resorted to buying pore strips from drug stores, some rely on facial washes filled with harsh chemicals that may irritate the skin. Unfortunately, not all these blackhead-fighting methods actually work.
Blackheads, which are common symptoms of acne occurs when the pores of the skin become blocked. This skin problem usually develops because the gland that secret sebum becomes overproductive. As a result, the excess sebum blocks the hair follicle into the canal. The black color is produced because the plug of sebum is oxidized at the surface of the skin.
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The formation of blackheads if often triggered by hormonal change during puberty as well as pregnancy, menstrual periods and use of birth control pills. Cleansers, cosmetics, clothing as well as heavy sweating that block the pores may also cause the formation of blackheads.
Here are some inexpensive natural home remedies to get rid of blackheads for good, according to The Little Things.
1. Use baking soda as an exfoliator.
Baking soda is a great exfoliant since it neutralizes the skin’s pH level allowing it to produce less oil in order to completely prevent blackheads. Simply mix baking soda with a little bit of water and use it as an exfoliating face wash.
2. Apply tomato juice.
High in vitamin C, vitamin A and citric acid, tomato juice can serve as a great pore-clearing mask that naturally removes blackhead. Apply it on your face before relaxing or taking a nap.
3. Use egg white mask.
Egg whites form an easy mask that can temporarily tighten pores. It will also remove blackheads and reduce your chance of getting blackheads in the future. To create a mask, apply a layer of egg whites on your face, then put a layer of tissue. Put one final egg white layer on top.
4. Apply chilled green tea.
Green tea can also be used to help remove blackheads for good. Brew on a pot then allow it chill in the refrigerator. Apply chilled green tea on your blackheads and rinse it away after 15 minutes.
5. Scrub using toothbrush.
Because this technique can be harsh on the skin, it is suggested that you use this method only when other techniques haven’t worked. Using a soft toothbrush, scrub your blackheads in circular motion as gently as possible. You may dip the toothbrush in some lemon juice and jojoba oil.
6. Steam your face.
Blackheads can be easily removed by steaming your face. Over a bowl of hot steaming water, lean over and cover your head with a towel. Do this for five minutes at a time.
7. Use clay.
Bentonite clay when mixed with water can be used as a great clay mask that will remove unwanted blackheads. It lets the skin absorb all the mineral and simultaneously remove the blackhead.
8. Change or wash pillowcases as often as possible.
People prone to blackheads may opt to change or wash their pillowcases often as it can accumulate oil which can get on their face and trigger the formation of blackheads.
9. Dab your face with raw honey.
Serving as natural antibiotic, honey helps remove dirt from pores by clearing blackhead. It also hydrates and tightens skin pores resulting to a clear complexion. Apply raw honey on your face and allow it to sit for 15 minutes before rinsing.
10. Stop squeezing your blackheads.
As tempting as it may seem, squeezing your blackheads may actually worsen your skin situation. Ditch this habit and try the natural home hacks given above.