Blackheads are a type of acne known as open comedones. Contrary to popular belief that acne is caused by poor diet and hygiene, medical evidence suggests that it is largely due to hormone-related issues. Acne forms when the sebaceous oil glands under the skin produce excess sebum oil. This oil normally comes out of the hair follicles but in excess amounts, it becomes blocked in the pores with a mixture of dead skin cells and dirt. The tip of this oily mixture then oxidizes and turns blackish in color, becoming what is known as a blackhead, notes Medical News Today.
Step 1
Boil or heat some water.
To sterilize a blackhead removal tool, place it in a solution of rubbing alcohol. These tools consist of tweezer-sized bars with steal loops at either end.
Cut a fresh lemon and squeeze juice into a dish with rose water.
Step 2
Steam face over a bowl of water for 5 to 10 minutes. This is important as it will open up the pores, loosen the soft blackhead plugs, and make them easier to remove.
Step 3
Dry the blackhead tool before use. Target the larger blackheads in pores that have opened after the steaming. Position the steal loop of the tool over the blackhead. Using gentle pressure, press down. The soft plug should then eject from the pore as the loop presses it from the sides and underneath. Repeat.
Step 4
Generously bathe the blackhead area with the prepared lemon juice and rose water solution. Leave on for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse. Both ingredients have antimicrobial qualities that will cleanse the surface and pores of any bacteria. The soothing qualities of the rose water will help reduce some of the lemon juice's acidity.
Step 5
Moisturize. Use an over-the-counter product with a high SPF, because when used topically, lemon juice can cause increased sensitivity to sunlight.
Tips and Warnings
- Rose water and lemon juice can be used as individual cleansing tonics. The blackhead tool can cause skin damage if used too aggressively. Do not attempt to remove blackheads that have not loosened during steaming. Re-sterilize the tool consistently during use to prevent the spread of bacteria. A natural moisturizer such as olive oil can be used instead of an over-the-counter product, although it will not provide SPF.
- More research is needed to confirm the efficacy of home remedies, notes MayoClinic.com. A consultation with a skin specialist before beginning home treatment is wise as skin irritation may result. The specialist may recommend the use of over-the-counter products containing natural chemical compounds such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. MedlinePlus recommends the use of these bacteria-cleansing ingredients to help prevent and clear acne.
Things You'll Need
- Kettle/heater
- Blackhead removal tool
- Rubbing alcohol
- Lemon juice
- Rose water
- Knife
- Dish
- Towel
- Bowl
- Moisturizer
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