How to remove blackheads like a pro

Blackheads appear most often in the “T-Zone” of the face (forehead, nose, and chin) but may also appear on the back, chest, arms and shoulders. They can occur wherever there is a great density of hair follicles and their attached oil glands.

What Causes Blackheads?

The main cause of acne (including blackheads) is hormonal changes in the body that cause excess oil to be produced in the pores. This is a natural process, especially during puberty, which explains why so many teens have blackheads.

how to remove blackhead like a pro:

1. After showering, apply a thin layer of the heaviest moisturiser you have over the area you’ll be extracting from. “By using a rich moisturiser. It will create a temporary occlusive seal to keep the heat trapped in the skin, which for extractions purposes is necessary,”

2. Next, cover the area with plastic wrap and apply a hot, damp washcloth for five minutes. Make sure to use two washcloths layered on top of one another as the one on top one will help the one underneath retain its heat longer.

3. Grab your tissues, wrap a couple over each forefinger, and gently squeeze the skin to remove blackheads or clogged pores.  “The goal with squeezing is to avoid positioning the fingers too close as this won’t allow the blackhead to come out. Widen them out a bit so that the blackhead will be extracted easier from the deeper level within the skin.”

4. When finished, clean off the skin with an alcohol-free toner and then apply a cooling gel mask to reduce any redness.

Blackheads: The Bottom Line

Because natural hormonal changes in the body lead to excess skin oil, clogged pores and ultimately blackheads, it’s almost impossible to go through life without a few breakouts. Although blackheads are bothersome, they are not a serious condition, and most people can get rid of blackheads with topical products that contain salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.