5 Simple Home Remedies to Get Rid of Blackheads

So many of us are plagued by the pesky blackheads; the small dark or black bumps that appear on the face. Though they are found usually on the nose and around the cheeks, their appearance is not restricted to face alone. Blackheads can be found on different parts of the body like the chest, shoulders, back etc.  

Even though blackheads are not dangerous or painful per se, but they can still be bothersome. Since they are bumpy and dark in appearance, they prevent skin from being smooth and flawless and can thus be really bothersome. 

Causes of blackheads

A milder form of acne, blackheads are caused due to the clogged hair follicles. They result due to the overactive sebaceous glands. Dead skin, pollutants and dirt settle in the pore to clog it. As more oil is produced by the glands, more and more pores become clogged. 

If the pore is encased with skin, then it appears as a white head. However, when it is exposed to the air, it reacts to take the black color, and hence is referred to as blackhead. 

There are certain factors that increase the chances of getting them. People suffering from oily skin, or those undergoing hormonal changes that increase the productivity of oil on the skin are more liable to have them. Acne causing bacteria too promotes blackheads. 

Home remedies for blackheads

There are several different treatment options available for blackheads. Different creams and masks claim to remove blackheads. Some people, having a more persistent form of acne might require prescription medication. Manual removal is also done. However, many unqualified people perform this procedure, leading to scars etc. 

Moreover, as they are caused due majorly to oil and dead skin, many people are tempted to scrub their skin vigorously to make the blackheads go away. However, this only makes the problem worse. Facial skin should always be treated gently. 

Similarly, picking at blackheads may also cause irritation. Some skin products actually make the problem worse by blocking pores. So, make sure you only use non-comedogenic (non- pore blocking) products on your skin. 

There are also certain home remedies for  blackheads. These are cost and time effective solutions that are mostly safe as comprise of natural ingredients. However, patch testing should always be done to avoid any unwanted consequences. 

The best home remedies for blackheads have been compiled below: 

1- Bentonite Clay Mask

Clay masks are great for blackheads and can be used weekly. Bentonite clay is a very powerful detoxifier and known for its skin-clearing properties. It is rich in minerals and addresses four main causes of blackheads: oil production, bacteria, dead skin cells, and clogged pores. This is because the clay is very absorbent. 

To prepare the mask, mix a little bentonite clay with water and apply it on your skin. Wait for it to dry and then wash off with lukewarm water. It will draw out all the impurities that clog the pores and lead to blackheads. It also has exfoliating properties so it will also get rid of dead skin cells.

2- Skin Gritting

Massage your skin with oil, apply a clay mask, and then rub oil again. This blackhead removal method works like a charm. Ideally, you should apply a charcoal mask as it works really well to draw out impurities from the skin. 

Your pores will be lubricated the first time you cleanse with oil. After that, the mask will bring oil to the surface. Using an oil cleanser again will get rid of the blackheads.

3- Honey, Sugar, And Lemon Scrub

You can make our own exfoliator with sugar, honey, and lemon. Mix all of these and exfoliate your face with the DIY scrub using circular motions. Make sure you scrub very gently.

 You can use it for blackheads on your nose and chin. This scrub can also be left on for 5 minutes. Wash off after 5 minutes with lukewarm water and apply a good moisturizer afterward. 

However, be careful to not irritate the skin too much, as that too is not conducive towards promoting flawless skin. Over exfoliation can also increase oil production and thus aggravate the issue. Some people might have irritated skin due to the acidic lemon juice. 

4- Egg Whites

Egg whitewash is great to make a DIY peel-off mask. This will help in pulling out the dirt and the blackheads, leaving a visibly clearer skin in the aftermath. 

Take the white of one egg and whisk it. Apply it to clean skin. Layer a tissue paper all over your face apart from the eyes and mouth area. Reapply the egg whites. Wait for the mask to dry which takes around 20 minutes usually. Once it is dry, peel it off.

5- Baking Soda

Mix baking soda and water in equal proportions. Use this paste to lightly scrub your face. Wash off with lukewarm water. Baking soda is a great physical exfoliant and it gets rid of oil, dirt, and other impurities. However,  since it can be over drying so do not use this paste more than twice a week.

These home remedies for blackheads are a great and quick way to chase away the problem. Follow these with good facial hygiene practices like washing your face in the morning and at night with gentle cleanser. Clean your face after consuming oily food so that this oil is not absorbed by skin. 

However, those suffering from acne might have a harder time with blackheads. In case these remedies do not work for them, they might need a visit to the dermatologist. You can book an appointment with a top Dermatologist in Multan, Karachi and Islamabad through oladoc.com. You can also call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT Doctor for your health concerns.