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When too much sebum is produced, it has a tendency to mix with surface bacteria and dead skin cells. Then, this mixture may work its way back into skin pores, solidifying and producing a hard \u2018cap\u2019 over the pore entrance. The substance then oxidizes in the open air, turning black in the process (thus giving this particular form of skin irritation its name). Blackheads are most common on the face, particularly in the area on or around the nose. They can also become quite prevalent on the forehead, chin, and sides of the face. These are areas that see above-average sebum secretion, as well as being areas that tend to get touched and scratched throughout the day, and are thus more likely to encounter bacteria and become clogged. Although blackheads are closely related to whiteheads, they are not actually the same thing. Both are types of comedo<\/em>, which means that they are the result of pores becoming clogged by sebum, but while a whitehead features a closed opening where the skin has almost completely covered the entrance of the pore (causing pus buildup and swelling beneath the surface), blackheads have no closed openings. Instead, the entrance of the pore stretches, revealing the dark-topped blockage within. And although the presence of blackheads is a direct result of increased sebum production and skin cell turnover, there are several factors that may play a part in blackhead proliferation.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Blackhead causes <\/p>\n By far, the most common cause of blackheads is hormonal. At certain times during human development\u2014such as during puberty or menopause\u2014hormonal changes can lead to increased sebum production. However, for many, the hormones causes associated with blackheads are not limited to specific ages. Likewise, other factors such as pregnancy<\/a>, the use of hormonal contraceptives, or even too much stress (because stress is closely tied to hormone levels) can also increase sebum production. Intense sweating, such as is brought on during heavy exercise or overly humid environments can also lead to blackheads. Some kinds of cosmetics, lotions, and cleansers may also cause blockage inside of pores. That having been said, there are a number of myths and misconceptions about blackheads that should be addressed.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Myths about blackheads<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Perhaps the most pervasive blackhead-related myth is that blackheads are just dirt and grime that has become trapped in an open pore. This has led to the related myth that blackheads can be completely \u2018scrubbed\u2019 away, assuming that you\u2019re willing to scrub hard enough. But while there is certainly nothing wrong with wanting to keep a clean face, intense daily scrubbing can actually damage your skin, and lead to even more blemishes and other skin irritations, potentially causing microscopic damage and creating tiny, invisible cuts across the entire facial surface. This weakens your skin\u2019s natural defences, allowing more bacteria to find its way below the surface. The truth is that blackheads are not only caused by poor hygiene, but rather internal processes and hormones. At the same time, there is evidence that suggests that diets rich in carbs, alcohol, fats, or dairy products are tied to blackhead production<\/a>.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Who gets blackheads?<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Although we tend to think of adolescents and young adults as being the most likely to suffer from blackheads, the reality is that anyone, of any age can be affected. Children, adults, infants, the elderly… as long as they have skin pores and sebum secretions, then blackheads are a possibility. Because of this, it\u2019s important for everyone to understand the best ways to get rid of blackheads.<\/p>\n In this article, we will compare various blackhead treatments, as well as offer our expertise on what you can do to help prevent future outbreaks. So, take a few moments, and join us as we compare and contrast the most common methods for eliminating blackheads.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n 1. Popping<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n By far the most common method for eliminating blackheads is popping them. Unfortunately, this is also one of the most dangerous (and least effective) methods known. For those who are unfamiliar with it, \u2018popping\u2019 a blackhead generally involves using one\u2019s fingers to apply pressure to either side of the infected area. This pressure forces the solidified sebum out through the pore opening, where it can be easily wiped away. But despite the very visible and dramatic way that a quick pinch can apparently resolve a blackhead, one should seldom, if ever, attempt to pop their own blackheads. This is because the act of popping has a tendency to damage surrounding skin tissue, which can result in redness, swelling, or even scarring. Popping may also inadvertently force the solidified sebum further in your pores, resulting in blockage that is even more difficult to remove. If you use your fingers to pop your blackheads, you are likely introducing even more bacteria to the area, which can also lead to swelling, further outbreaks, and surface scarring. Lastly, a popped blackhead will often release a large amount of sebum and bacteria, which can easily find its way into other, nearby pores, causing more blackheads to appear in a very short time.<\/p>\n The point we\u2019re trying to make is this: you really shouldn\u2019t attempt to pop your own blackheads. That having been said, it\u2019s hard to prevent yourself from touching a blackhead that\u2019s popped up. Should you choose to go down this path, here are some tips to help minimize damage. If you are going to pop a blackhead, pay special attention to these tips:<\/p>\n If available, a blackhead extractor tool can be used in place of your fingers. These metal tools make it possible to apply pressure to a specific area with almost surgical precision, and are less likely to transmit bacteria to your face. Other blackhead removal tools are available that use the same basic principles, but remember that any sort of popping may damage your skin. It\u2019s always better to rely on less destructive methods to clean out your pores.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n 2. Cleansing<\/strong><\/p>\n Given that blackheads are the result of clogged pores, it seems obvious that one of the best ways to prevent or eliminate them would be through intense face washing. However, this is only half correct. Regular face washing can, in fact, help reduce the amount of sebum and bacteria that finds its way back down into your pores, and can also help reduce the number of dead skin cells that are also instrumental in creating blackheads. That having been said, when it comes to using soap and other facial cleansers to reduce blackheads, less is usually more<\/em>. Generally, washing<\/a> two or three times per day (upon waking up, when getting ready for bed, and perhaps after eating a particularly greasy meal) should be more than adequate, and will help you avoid the pitfall of over-washing your skin\u2014which can not only damage the skin itself through direct contact, but can also remove too much sebum oil, leaving your skin dry and unprotected from infections. When washing your face, don\u2019t use basic hand soaps, as these may irritate the skin and damage the pores, resulting in more blackheads and pimples. Instead, use mild, oil-free cleanser<\/a>s<\/a> that are specifically designed to help fight acne. Some of these cleansers may contain chemicals such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid<\/a>, which can help eliminate blackheads through continued use.\u00a0What we can wholeheartedly recommend is using a facial cleansing and massaging device made with ultra-hygienic silicone bristles: FOREO LUNA™ 4<\/a>. A deep in-pore cleanse removes 99% of dirt, oil and makeup residue, while boosting circulation and collagen.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n 3.<\/strong> Pore vacuum devices<\/strong><\/p>\n Pore vacuum devices work like vacuum cleaners for your skin: they aid in the exfoliation process by immediately suctioning away loosened dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, extracting excess oil, impurities, and other debris from deep within pores while clearing them out and helping them appear smaller. They also stimulate blood flow, encourage oxygen and nutrient delivery to the skin cells, promote collagen production, and support the skin’s natural healing process. Additionally, they facilitate lymphatic drainage – by reducing puffiness and swelling in the treated area.<\/span><\/p>\n FOREO\u00a0<\/span>KIWI™ derma<\/span><\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0<\/span>KIWI™<\/span><\/a>\u00a0are safe and efficient ways to treat different skin problems – if you want to get rid of deep-rooted\u00a0<\/span>blackheads<\/span><\/a>, let KIWI™ do the dirty work for you. If you have damaged skin and want to enjoy the benefits of microdermabrasion while getting rid of blackheads and other impurities, the KIWI™ derma, diamond microdermabrasion pore vacuum is the right choice. KIWI™ derma is the world\u2019s first microdermabrasion device that doesn\u2019t require replacement parts, as its tips are made with medical-grade steel and Adamas diamonds. The ultra-hygienic filter is made of bacteria-resistant, non-porous, 100% waterproof, and quick-drying silicone that you can swipe and wash after your treatment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n 4. Oils <\/strong><\/p>\n Although it may seem counterintuitive to use oil to remove oil, the reality is that there is evidence to suggest that certain oils may be more beneficial than soap and water in breaking down the clogs that cause blackheads. This is because oil and water naturally repel one another, making it difficult for water to penetrate oil-encrusted pores. Other oils\u2014such as almond oil, or castor oil mixed with coconut<\/a> or avocado oil\u2014however, are capable of dissolving the sebum buildup. To take advantage of this unique property, simply place a warm, damp washcloth over your face and allow it to sit there for about five minutes. Then, remove the washcloth, and apply the oil mixture, and gently massage it into your face. Then, replace the washcloth for another two minutes. Finally, wash your face with warm water, and pat it dry with a dry towel. Whatever you do, make sure that you aren\u2019t using mineral oil on your skin<\/em>, as mineral oil clogs pores and often contains various unhealthy toxins. Unfortunately, when comparing oil treatment with basic soap and water face washing, it is impossible to accurately identify which treatment is more effective, as each individual person will have results unique to their own body chemistry. Still, there are those who swear by this method, and claim that it is the best way to eliminate blackheads while also preventing future outbreaks.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n 5. Masks<\/strong><\/p>\n The idea behind facial masks is that the substances you spread across your skin will naturally soak up any excess oils and dirt, leaving your skin clean, smooth, and oil-free. If you\u2019ve been keeping up with points of this article so far, then you might see a potential problem with this claim. For one thing, dirt is not the only cause of blackheads. For another thing, oil is an essential factor in maintaining healthy skin. As such, masks should be used sparingly. Some masks, such as those that are clay-based, use the same process of microdermabrasion offered in facial spas to clear away dead skin cells. Other masks rely on specific food properties, such as the tightening aspect of egg whites, or the antibiotic properties of honey, to help either open pores or breakdown clogs. DIY masks can be made from any number of kitchen staples, such as eggs, yogurt, oatmeal, or epsom salt, but those who use them should be aware that simply because something feels good on the skin, it doesn\u2019t necessarily follow that it is<\/em> good for the skin. Some masks do little more than provide a feeling of increased cleanliness once they are removed, while others may even go so far as to block other, more-effective measures from being able to take effect. For real results, many dermatologists recommend that the masks contain proven treatments such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or sulfur, and that patients only use masks once or twice per week.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n 6. Other skin-care products<\/strong><\/p>\n The main difficulty in dealing with blackheads and other unpleasant skin conditions is that everyone who suffers from them has their own unique body chemistry. This means that solutions that work well for one person may have no effect (or even a negative effect) on someone else. Before you commit to one single approach, or even a combination of approaches, it\u2019s best if you have a basic understanding of the purpose and effectiveness of each available option. Here are four other types of skin-care products for you to consider:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n 7. Makeup<\/strong><\/p>\n Although there are a number of very effective blackhead eliminating products available on the market, there is no guarantee that any specific method or cleanser is going to work for your unique skin-type. Because of this, many blackhead sufferers choose to cover their clogged pores with makeup. And while this can certainly serve as a short term solution, doing so is far more likely to create bigger problems further down the line. Certain kinds of makeup, especially when used every day, can actually lead to more intense blackhead breakouts. This is because most kinds of makeup promote bacteria buildup. If you find yourself suffering from blackheads and other blemishes, the best thing that you can do for your skin is to forgo the makeup. Of course, if that isn\u2019t an option, there are other steps that you can take to help minimize the negative impact that makeup is having on your skin.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n 8. Lifestyle<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n The way you live your life has an impact on the health of your skin. And while diet plays a role in blackhead formation, there are a number of other factors that you may not have considered. Here are some lifestyle changes that may have a positive effect on reducing the number and severity of your blackhead breakouts.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n 9. Professional assistance<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n There is a lot that you can do on your own to help decrease blackhead breakouts. However, if you\u2019ve been doing everything in your power and still haven\u2019t seen any improvements, then it may be time to visit a dermatologist. A dermatologist will be able to access your condition, and work with you to develop a skincare plan specifically designed to fit your body\u2019s own natural chemistry. This plan may range from hormone therapy to help reduce the amount of sebum producing hormones in your body, to more subtle topical solutions that attack the blackheads on the surface. Dermatologists will also be able to assist you in effectively removing current blackheads. For some who find that blackheads are an ongoing problem, regular skin therapy sessions may be scheduled. However, be warned that some health insurance providers will not cover visits to the dermatologist, and if you plan on paying out of pocket, you may end up having to spend several hundred dollars per visit. Of course, if your skin problems have become very severe, you may prefer to pay a bit extra just to have them resolved.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n As with any problem, the key to overcoming a blackhead breakout is knowledge. By understanding the various therapies, remedies, and pitfalls of blackhead treatment, you\u2019ll be able to find a solution that will have your skin feeling healthy and blackhead free. The key to overcoming blackheads lies in trial and error, but most of all, it lies in being patient. After all, your skin is completely unique to your body; it only makes sense that your blackhead solution be unique as well.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
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