Blackheads, or open comedones, are a type of acne. When infected they can become inflamed and turn into pimples. Often though, they remain dormant. They form when the sebaceous glands produce excess amounts of sebum oil in the pores. The pores become blocked with this mixture of oil, skin debris and dirt that forms a soft plug in the pore. As the tip of this plug oxidizes, it turns black, according to Medical News Today. Medical research does not yet understand the cause of this sudden increase in sebum oils, but evidence suggests that it is largely a result of hormonal changes.
Step 1
Buy a blackhead remover lancet tool from a drugstore. These are cheap and easily available. This tool must be sterilized to avoid causing infection. To sterilize, place it in some rubbing alcohol.
Step 2
Cleanse the skin on the nose. Do this by using a wipe or a lotion that contains salicylic acid. This will cleanse the skin's surface of bacteria and oil.
Step 3
Steam your face over a bowl of hot water for five to 10 minutes. Use a towel to enclose your face over the bowl. The steaming will open and loosen the blackheads in the pores and soften the skin.
Step 4
Remove the blackhead tool from the solution and dry. Place the loop end of the lancet over the blackhead you wish to remove. The blackhead should now be centered in the middle of the loop. Push down gently. The pressure will squeeze the blackhead from the sides and push out. Repeat.
Step 5
Use a lotion containing benzoyl peroxide to clean deep into the pores and remove any remaining oil and bacteria. Rinse. Moisturize.
Tips and Warnings
- Using a three-step process of salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and moisturizer daily can prevent acne and blackheads, according to Medline Plus. Sterilize the tool frequently during blackhead removal to prevent transferring of bacteria. Do not attempt to remove plugs that have not loosened.
- Consult your doctor before attempting this home treatment and for recommendations about salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide use. Both ingredients can cause irritation and drying on some skin types. Alternating their use may be recommended. The blackhead removal tool was originally designed only for professional use. Applying too much pressure can damage the pores and skin.
Things You'll Need
- Blackhead removal tool
- Rubbing alcohol
- Dish
- Salicylic acid solution/wipe
- Bowl
- Towel
- Benzoyl peroxide lotion
- Moisturizer
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