Effective Ways to Clear Blackheads from the Skin

No matter how well we care for the skin, different skin concerns sometimes show up; one among them is acne. They occur on the skin quite frequently in different forms. Among them, blackheads are one of the most frustrating ones. It is mainly because those pesky dark spots on the skin make your skin look dull and rough. And most times, when you try to get rid of them using tools, it often ends up causing a scar or damage. If you are wondering how to remove blackheads from the skin without harming the skin, there are some easy and effective ways to follow. Read on; 

What are Blackheads? 

It's a type of acne that occurs on the skin in the form of open bumps. Blackheads are formed mainly when the pores get clogged due to oil, dirt or sweat. People with oily skin are more likely to get blackheads; still, it also occurs on other skin types as well. These dark lesions commonly form on the face where the oil production is higher, such as the nose, forehead and chin.  

What Causes Blackheads on the Skin? 

As mentioned, the blackheads are formed when the hair follicle’s opening is clogged. When the opening of the hair follicle is filled with sweat, oil and dirt, it produces a bump known as "comedo”. If the skin over these bumps opens, the exposure to the air makes them look dark and black, forming a blackhead. Likewise, if the bump remains closed, it is called a whitehead.   

You may develop acne and blackheads for a variety of reasons, including: 

• Excess sebum production
• Increased buildups of bacteria on the skin
• Dead skin cells- When the dead skin cells are formed, it irritates the hair follicles. 
• Hormonal changes –when the hormones fluctuate, it increases oil production. 
• Sometimes taking certain drugs like androgens or corticosteroids can also cause the formation of blackheads on the skin.  

How to Get Rid of Blackheads? 

Luckily there are many options that can help you remove blackheads. From effective home remedies to prescription medication, nonprescription medications and chemical peels can be used to eliminate those open bumps on the skin. Avoid squeezing or harsh scrubbing as it can worsen the skin condition or damage the skin.  

Effective Home Remedies: 

Tea Tree Oil: Most of you might have heard a lot of myths about the benefits of tea tree oil. You may apply diluted tea tree oil to the affected areas to curb the growth of bacteria. Or may even try skincare products containing tea tree oil.

Sugar scrub: Sugar, honey and lemon juice combo is a gentle yet effective exfoliant for the skin to remove blackheads. To use it on the skin, mix all three ingredients and apply it to your face; gently massage in a circular motion for three to five minutes and rinse it off. 

Egg Whites: Whisk an egg white and spread it onto your clean and dry skin. Apply a thick coat or two. Leave it on the skin until it dries, and then you may peel it off.  

Over–the–Counter Treatments 

Salicylic acid, Azelaic acid, Benzoyl peroxide and Retinoid are some of the most commonly used OTC to treat blackheads. These medications are available in different forms like lotions, gel, and cream that can be used directly on the skin. They can help dry out excess oil, get rid of dead skin cells and kill bacteria on the skin. 

If these natural remedies and OTCs aren't making any difference on your skin, you may consult your dermatologists to suggest prescription medications.  

Best Ways to Keep the Blackheads Away 

Skincare routine: Follow a regular beauty routine and ensure that you exfoliate your skin at least once a week using a natural exfoliant. Savarnas Mantra® Natural Honey Exfoliant is a gentle scrub that provides mild exfoliation without irritating your skin.  

Maintain clean skin: It's clear that the clogged pores are the primary cause of blackheads. Do not permit dirt, makeup and other impurities to stay on the skin for a long time. Make sure to remove makeup with a proper makeup remover, followed by cleansing the face using a mild cleanser, preferably a natural facial cleanser.  

Facial Treatments: Facials are one of the best treatments that can gift you refreshed skin. It can free the skin from dirt and impurities and regain its natural glow.  

Skin concerns are unavoidable, but at the same time, you have plenty of options to keep the skin problems at bay. Choosing the right one among them and using them regularly can keep your skin concerns under control.