If you suffer from blackheads and other types of skin blemishes, a good skincare routine can prevent future outbreaks. Blackheads are a type of acne that occurs when the pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. When the oil is exposed to air, it oxidizes and turns a black or yellow color. If you are unable to clear up your skin at home, speak to a dermatologist about other treatment options.
Step 1
Wash your face twice daily. Over-washing can dry out the skin and irritate the face. Use a mild cleanser and rinse off any soap residue with lukewarm water. Daily cleansing controls the amount of oil on the face.
Step 2
Remove blackheads with a blackhead extractor. Place the tip of the stainless steel extractor over the blackhead. Gently push down until the blackheads pops out of the pore. Wipe away any residue with a clean tissue.
Step 3
Apply a topical acne fighting solution. Choose gels, creams or pads that contain salicylic acid as the active ingredient. Salicylic acid removes blackhead-causing oil and promotes peeling. Use twice a day to control breakouts.
Step 4
Choose oil-free makeup and skincare products. Purchase versions labeled noncomedogenic since these have been tested and found to not clog the pores. Stop touching your face and keep the hair pulled back to limit oil transference.
Step 5
Wear sunscreen. The Mayo Clinic recommends protecting your skin from sun exposure to prevent wrinkles, dry skin, freckles and age spots. While outdoors, wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
Tips and Warnings
- To prepare the face for blackhead extraction, place the face over a bowl of boiling water for five to 10 minutes. The steam opens up the pores on the skin. Remember to disinfect the blackhead extractor between uses. To do so, wipe the tool down with an alcohol wipe.
Things You'll Need
- Mild cleanser
- Blackhead extractor
- Salicylic acid topical solution
- Sunscreen
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