Blackheads form when a blockage forms in the opening of your skin’s pores. This plug or clog is often due to dead skin cells and oils. It usually shows up in the t-zone, nose and on the cheeks.
One of the most effective home remedies for blackheads is steaming. It can help soften the skin and open the pores to allow products to penetrate more easily, notes Melissa Urban, licensed esthetician and skincare expert at Skinforyou.
The trick is to steam your face properly, not too hot and not too long. If you do it the wrong way, it can dry out your skin or worsen the blackheads.
To make a homemade steamer, pour a bowl of water and add a few drops of essential oil or herbs like lavender, eucalyptus or rose to it. Then, place a towel over your head and lean over the bowl so you can trap the steam.
Once you’re done, rinse off the face with water to remove any excess steam. You can also use a cotton pad to wipe off any excess oil or dirt from your skin.
Exfoliate your skin regularly for a smooth and clear complexion. This will ensure that there is no excess oil or dead skin cells that can clog the pores and cause blackheads.
Wash your face regularly with a mild and natural exfoliating cleanser that is free from chemicals. A good option is the Kiehl’s Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash, which will cleanse your face without stripping it of its natural oils.
Another option is a homemade face scrub that can be made by mixing two tablespoons of jojoba oil and brown sugar. The combination is an excellent solution for removing blackheads as it helps deep clean your pores and unclog them.
You can use this mixture twice a week for best results. After applying it, blot your face dry and apply moisturizer.
Sweat Yourself Out
Exercise can help minimise blackheads on the face because it can flush out anything that clogs your pores. However, you need to be sure that you work out regularly and don’t let your pores get clogged up with makeup or other debris before you start.
While there are a lot of ways to eliminate blackheads, the most effective is to avoid them in the first place. To prevent them, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, avoid smoking and drink lots of water.
Aside from these tips, it is also a good idea to do some yoga or meditate, which will improve blood circulation and relax your mind. This will also reduce stress, which can increase the chances of forming blackheads.
In addition, you can also add some lemon juice to your steaming routine to help tighten the pores and remove blackheads. Lemon acts as an effective toner and also fights bacteria that can clog the pores and lead to blackheads.
You can also steam your face using a face cloth or a towel. If you have a facial steamer, it will be easier to do this at home because you can set the temperature to your liking.
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