Blackheads are a specific type of acne called comedones. They appear as small yellow or blackish bumps that are filled with plugs of dead skin cells and sebum, or skin oil. Blackheads commonly appear on the face. Numerous products such as ointments and cleansing creams can remove blackheads. However, these products can take many months before you begin to see results. Fortunately, you can easily get rid of blackheads with an instrument used by dermatologists or estheticians called a blackhead extractor.
Step 1
Disinfect the blackhead extractor. Pour 1 cup of disinfecting solution such as Barbicide or isopropyl alcohol in a clean bowl. Submerge the blackhead extractor in the bowl for three to four hours. Remove the extractor and wipe it dry with a clean facial tissue.
Step 2
Wash your face with water and an antibacterial soap. Don't scrub your face or use a loofah sponge to prevent skin irritations and redness. Pat your face dry with facial tissue or a clean towel.
Step 3
Steam your face to open the pores in your skin. Boil a pot of clean water. Pour it into a clean bowl. Cover your head with a towel and place your face about 1 foot above the steam for five minutes.
Step 4
Put the hole of the extractor on a blackhead and push down gently over it. The contents of the blackheads will come out without injuring the surrounding skin. Repeat the procedure for all the other blackheads you find. Use a lighted magnification mirror to help you find other blackheads.
Step 5
Remove dirt, oily skin debris and blackheads on your chin and sides of your nose. Place the side of the scoop on the blackhead extractor on the blackheads and apply gentle pressure to scrape them off. Use facial tissue to wipe off the black heads and other debris.
Step 6
Wash your face with soap and cold water to close your skin pores. Apply an antibiotic ointment to your face to kill any bacteria that can enter your skin pores.
Tips and Warnings
- You can purchase a blackhead extractor at your local beauty supply store or pharmacy.
- This article is not a substitute for seeking medical advice from your physician or health care professional.
Things You'll Need
- Blackhead extractor
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Bowl
- Facial tissues
- Antibacterial soap
- Antibacterial ointment
References
- "Clinical Dermatology"; Thomas P. Habif MD; 2003
- "How to Pop a Zit: The Aesthetician's Guide to Extractions"; Rupa Vickers; 2008
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