Open comedones, or blackheads, appear when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells and bacteria. When a plugged follicle opens at the skin's surface, the material inside oxidizes and turns dark in color, creating a blackhead. Although black in color, blackheads do not indicate the presence of dirt, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Commonly found in acne sufferers, blackheads typically go away on their own over time. Facial steams performed at home can help expedite the process, however, by widening pores, which facilitates easier blackhead removal.
Step 1
Wash your face with a gentle cleansing cream, and rinse with cool water. Pat dry.
Step 2
Bring 2 quarts water to a rolling boil over high heat, and transfer to a large heat-proof bowl placed on a steady surface. Add the dried herbs and stir briefly.
Step 3
Sit down with your face about six inches above the liquid. Drape a large towel over your head, allowing as little steam as possible to escape.
Step 4
Keep the towel in place for about 10 minutes and then remove it. Clear away blackheads with a clean tissue, gently pressing in a circular motion around the blackhead until it comes out of the pore.
Step 5
Rinse your face with cold water once you've removed the blackheads. Follow with a natural astringent and gentle moisturizer for the best results. Repeat the treatment daily as needed.
Tips and Warnings
- For the best results, use astringent herbs in your facial steam. Astringent herbs reduce excess oil, which leads to less accumulation in the pores and fewer blackheads. David Frawley, author of "The Yoga of Herbs," recommends using yarrow, comfrey, marshmallow, self-heal, plantain or blackberry leaves for getting rid of blackheads. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," Phyllis A. Balch recommends using witch hazel extract, cucumber juice, sage tea, or yarrow tea as a natural astringent for oily or acne-prone skin. If you use an astringent herb in your facial steam, simply splash some of the liquid onto your face after removing blackheads and rinsing with cold water.
- Do not force blackheads out of pores. They should come out easily after steaming, but deeply embedded blackheads may require more than one treatment. Acne is not considered a serious health threat, but severe cases may require medical treatment. Consult a dermatologist if home remedies do not improve symptoms, or if breakouts become unmanageable.
Things You'll Need
- Cleansing cream
- Large heat-proof bowl
- 1/2 cup dried herbs
- Large towel
- Clean tissues
- Natural astringent (optional)
- Gentle moisturizer (optional)
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Acne
- "The Natural Remedy Bible"; John Lust, Michael Tierra; 2003
- "The Yoga of Herbs"; David Frawley, Vasant Lad; 1988
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2006
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