When the skin overproduces its natural oil, called sebum, blackheads can result. Sebum combines with dead skin cells and cosmetics to form small plugs that clog the pores. When the clog is exposed to air, it oxidizes, giving the blackhead its characteristic dark color. According to Medical News Today, blackheads are the first stage of acne, the second stage being the infection of the plug that causes a pimple. Blackheads are common after puberty, when surges of hormones begin to affect the skin.
Step 1
Wash your face with mild soap on a soft washcloth. Use hot water to open the pores and remove dirt. Massage the cloth on your face in a circular motion.
Step 2
Boil 1/4 cup of water in a saucepan.
Step 3
Add 1 tsp. of Epsom salt and five drops of iodine to the boiling water. Allow the mixture to cool until it is warm to the touch.
Step 4
Dip a cotton ball in the salt solution and dab it onto your blackheads. Leave it on for five minutes. This will soften blackheads and bring them to the surface.
Step 5
Wrap your fingertips in tissue and gently squeeze the blackheads from your skin. You can also use a blackhead removal tool.
Step 6
Moisten a cotton ball with salicylic acid toner to close the pores and dry up excess oil. Using this toner daily can help prevent new blackheads from forming.
Things You'll Need
- Washcloth
- Mild facial soap
- Saucepan
- Teaspoon
- Iodine
- Epsom salt
- Cotton balls
- Salicylic acid toner
- Tissue
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