Blackheads are unsightly blemishes that typically have a blackened appearance. They occur when the pores of the skin become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. When the oil is exposed to the air, it becomes oxidized and turns black. As long as there are no signs of an infection, like pus and pain, you can remove the blackheads at home. If you are apprehensive about removing the blackheads yourself, you may want to speak to a professional.
Step 1
Look in the mirror at the blackhead. According to the Care Fair website, you should only remove a blackhead when the head has visibly popped out of the surface of the skin.
Step 2
Fill a bowl with boiling hot water. Place your head above the bowl and wrap a towel behind your head. This allows the steam to open up the pores on the skin. Stay in place for five minutes.
Step 3
Place the loop of the extractor directly over the blackhead. Gently apply pressure until you are able to push the blackhead out of the skin. If you are removing more than one blackhead, sanitize the blackhead extractor between blemishes with an alcohol wipe.
Step 4
Remove any residue from the face with a clean tissue. Discard the tissue and use a new one for each blackhead that you treat.
Step 5
Cleanse the face. After removal, wash the area with an acne fighting face wash. Choose a version with either salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. These ingredients keep the pores clear of dead skin cells and excess oil.
Tips and Warnings
- You can also use pore strips to remove blackheads from the skin. The strips are moistened and then adhered to the affected area. After 10 to 15 minutes, the strip is pulled away from the skin to get rid of any blackheads clogging the pores. They may be used approximately two to three times a week to get rid of blackheads.
Things You'll Need
- Bowl
- Towel
- Blackhead extractor
- Tissues
- Acne fighting face wash
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