Blackheads are a form of acne that are stubborn to banish, but easy to treat and minimize. Blackheads are formed when excess sebum and dead skin cells become trapped in hair follicles, and can be felt as a very tiny, small bump.
When exposed to oxygen, the oil can harden and become dark (the exposure to air oxidizes the blackhead). This then creates a harmless black dot on the surface of the skin. Although harmless, we understand how irritating they can be!
Blackheads are different to other blemishes because they aren't caused by anything bacterial, and rather than being under the skin, they sit as an open pore. However, the good news is that if treated correctly, blackheads are easy to get rid of and can quickly be removed. It's worth noting that an effective skin routine should be in place to help stop them from forming, so here's our top product suggestions on how to stop blackheads in their tracks:
Exfoliation:
Rule number one: try not to squeeze blackheads! Although it is tempting you can put yourself at risk of a bacterial infection on the skin. Instead try exfoliating regular, up to 2-3 times a week to help remove the excess sebum and build up of dead skin cells that cause black heads. There are lots of ways to exfoliate, just find the method that suits you the best. Mechanical exfoliation is very popular -this is where the product contains an abrasive that helps cleanse the skin through friction.
Using an electrical cleanser like a FOREO device also exfoliates deep into the pores while enzyme cleansers work to dissolve excess oil and stop it clogging.
Cleansing:
When choosing a cleanser or face wash to combat blackheads, its best to use products that are non-comdogenic, which means the products have been specifically developed not to block the pores. Its also useful to include ingredients that dissolve dead skin cells and oil, such as BHA’S (salicylic acid is the key one).
BHA's tend to work deeper down in the pores of the skin than other ingredients, and are attracted to oil, minimizing the formation of blackheads.
Masks:
Masks are an essential quick and effective product to use for all skin concerns; they can make the biggest difference in the shortest time. Clay based masks are effective because clay is highly absorbent and will draw out excess oil in the skin as it dries, reducing the formation of blackheads. Other ingredients such as Enzymes in masks help to exfoliate and decongest by dissolving the glue that hold dead cells onto the skins surface.
Pads:
Pads are an effective product that can be incorporated into any routine to help resurface and balance oil production on the skin. Face pads usually contain chemical ingredients that help to gently peel the skin and banish breakouts. Use after cleansing to treat problematic skin or just to renew the surface of the skin for a smoother complexion.
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