Blackheads spring from partly blocked pores. The'black' appearance of them isn't caused by mud, but by the oxidising effect of air on the sebum ( oil ) in a blocked pore and the melanin pigment from the dead skin cells.
The best way to get rid of blackheads is to remove the reason for them - excessive sebum ( oil ) and dead skin cells. Use only products made with natural ingredients that are not too astringent. Harsh products can strip the skin of oil, making it produce more sebum which leads to more blocked pores.
Do not be afraid of using cleansing products containing natural oils, for example jojoba or coconut oil to cleanse the skin. These oils are close to our natural oils, so they do not block the pores. Employ a delicate exfoliating mask such as Miessence's mild Exfoliant every day to remove dead skin cells so they do not block pores. Just remember to be very gentle, over exfoliation can exacerbate the problem. Avoid products containing the following : alcohol, isopropyl mystate, lanolin, sodium lauryl sulphate, sodium laureth sulphate, propylene glycol, mineral oil and parabens.
Do not to attempt to extract them forcibly, either using your fingers, fingernails or a comedone ( blackhead ) remover. This can cause permanent damage to the pores and stop them working correctly for ever. You may squeeze some of the blackhead out, but you might also force some of it even further into the skin, which could lead to infection ( large spots, zits or maybe cysts ) or long-standing damage. Touching your skin should typically be avoided to stop cross infection.
You can help to reduce the occurrence of blackheads by eating the right kinds of foods -- this can reduce sebum production, increase good moisture in the skin and help the production of new skin cells. Avoid cooked carbohydrates and fats, replace these with fresh fruits, veg and raw fats ( avocadoes, olives, olive oil etc ). Read our article of the systematic link between diet and acne for more information.
If you do wear make up, make sure any foundations and concealers are non-comedogenic and oil free so they won't block pores. Try to not apply make up if your face is sweating. Always remove your make up with a cleaner at the end of the day. Keep all of your make up brushes and sponges clean. Wash them in mild shampoo once a month and let dry totally before using.
There are numerous treatments for acne, but I am not going to chat about antibiotics here. If you have very severe acne and/or are extremely depressed, please discuss this with a sympathetic doctor or dermatologist. Prescribed oral antibiotics also destroy the healthy bacteria that live in your gut. A lack of heathly bacteria in your gut can, ironically, worsen acne. There are also many related complications, including thrush ( candidiasis ). If you do have to take antibiotics, take a probiotic supplement such as Nature's Biotics to help revive the healthy bacteria and eat lots of garlic.
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