Easy Blackhead Removal

Just like pimples are a draw for our fingers, so are blackheads.  It seems as soon as one appears we want to poke it and squeeze it in an attempt to rid ourselves of the complexion ruining blackhead.  The problem is that squeezing the blackhead can cause permanent damage and even scarring, so what are we to do.  Simple, follow some of the suggestions below for an easy way to get rid of blackheads.

Blackhead strips – These are tape like strips that you place over the blackhead to have it quickly and easily extracted.  Simply follow the directions on the package and in 10-15 minutes you will be rid of your blackhead.  Of course these don’t work for deep blackheads, but this is a quick way to get rid of surface blackheads, which are more common for many.

Blackhead extractor – Many cosmetic companies now make a metallic blackhead remover that are nothing more than a round opening that squeezes the blackhead out for you.  These can be used for removing the deeper blackheads and if used properly you run much less risk of causing damage to the pore and ending up with a scar.

Lightly squeezing – If you have a deft hand you can gently squeeze the blackhead to remove it.  This is not the best method, but if you are able to gently do this then you can remove the blackhead quickly without risking harm to your skin.  Remember, gentle is the operative term here.

Chemical peels – Skin peels containing glycolic acid or salicylic acid are good for not only removing the blackhead, but also removing the dead skin cells, oil and dirt that has accumulated on your skin and in your pores.  Do not use these if you are already using a topical retinoid cream.

Topical retinoid cream – The most well known of these is Retin-A and it is very good at preventing blackheads from forming.  Retinoids work by unclogging your pores and by preventing the formation of blackheads and pimples by reducing the amount of oil produced by the skin.  The key is that retinoids are a preventative measure.  If you already have the blackhead then these won’t be that helpful since it takes some time for the retinoid to do its work properly.

Proper make up – Also in the preventative measure department is the proper use of make up.  More correct is that you are using make up which is considered non-comedogenic.  This is make up that is formulated so that it does not block your pores.  Other important tips to consider concerning make up use is to make sure you frequently clean your brushes and pads and that you properly remove your make up each night.

Proper Diet – What you eat can dramatically impact the amount of oil produced by your body.  By reducing your consumption of greasy snacks, sweets and fast food you will help prevent blackheads from forming.  Instead you should eat more fruits and vegetables for their anti oxidant properties and drink lots of water to cleanse your body of toxins.

Exfoliating products – Exfoliation works by gently removing the top layers of your skin to get rid of the dead skin cells.  Benzoyl peroxide is one popular exfoliating chemical and can be found in most acne products.  Don’t overdo with the benzoyl peroxide though as it can dry and irritate your skin if used too much.  For a quick fix a microdermabrasion is helpful to exfoliate and get rid of even the most hard to remove blackheads.

These tips can help you to remove current blackheads and to prevent them from forming in the first place.  A regular skin care routine is the best thing you can do to stay blackhead free, remember the old saying that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”.