Experts recommend using over-the-counter treatments and medications like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide and maintaining a good and gentle skin care routine. If you don't see an improvement or your blackheads worsen, it may be time to see a dermatologist.
Simply make a paste from a tablespoon of baking soda and a few drops of water, apply it to your blackheads, leave on your skin for roughly 10 minutes before rinsing off. For the best results do this two or three times a week.
One go-to ingredient for eliminating blackheads is salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid that increases cell turnover and unclogs pores, says Saedi. Suozzi adds that the acne treatment can help dry active acne lesions because it is a mild chemical irritant. A wealth of research suggests salicylic acid helps treat acne.
Applying toothpaste on blackheads: Yes, there's an idea circulating the web that you can use toothpaste to extract your nose blackheads. Don't buy it! Toothpaste can cause dryness and irritation, causing more skincare troubles than it's worth.
Petroleum jelly (vaseline) is a barrier and does not melt away a blackhead. In actual fact it can cause more harm than good, this is because it traps the dirt, bacteria and dead skin cells on the skin surface leading to the skin becoming irritated and causing more inflammation.
Salicylic acid: This is available over-the-counter for blackheads as a cleanser or lotion. It helps remove the top layer of damaged skin. Salicylic acid dissolves dead skin cells to prevent your hair follicles from clogging. Azelaic acid: Barley, wheat, rye and other various grains naturally contain azelaic acid.
Both lemon and salt work effectively for cleansing the skin, leaving it dirt-free and fresh. Lemon helps remove dirt and grime, preventing blackheads and even whiteheads and acne. Salt possesses antibacterial properties that kill bacteria and germs clogging the open skin pores.
Salicylic acid
It breaks down dead skin cells and extra oil before they can clog your pores. When you go to the pharmacy, check the ingredient labels carefully. You'll find products with salicylic acid that range in strength from 0.5% to 5%. The acid can be harsh on some people's skin.
Blackheads are caused by dirt and oil that clog your pores and turn black when exposed to air. The nose is a popular spot for blackheads because of the excess oil that gathers there, either by natural production or by contact with our hands, makeup, dirt, etc.
Use an alpha or beta hydroxy acid cleanser
Some of the most popular elements in this group include salicylic acid, lactic acid and citric acid. Another great option for removing blackheads in the AHA family is using a product containing glycolic acid. Aim to use a cleanser with 10%.
Making a paste with lemon juice and baking soda is quite effective for nixing blackheads. Simply mix one tablespoon of baking soda with half a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Apply the paste to the blackheads area and allow it to dry completely. Once it's dry, rinse it away with warm water.
For mild blackheads, use salicylic acid
"This beta hydroxy acid helps remove excess oil and exfoliate the cells from the surface of the skin." The best way to utilize salicylic acid is to try a gentle face scrub, which acts as a one-two punch for combatting blackheads, providing double the exfoliation powers.
While it's challenging to completely remove blackheads in just 5 minutes, using a pore strip can offer quick results. Apply the strip to a wet nose, let it dry, and then peel it off to remove blackheads instantly.
Professional Treatments for Blackheads
3 You may need a prescription-strength retinoid to help remove your blackheads. Professional treatments like comedone extraction, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, hydrafacials, or laser therapy may also help remove persistent blackheads.
Mineral oil: Considered non-comedogenic and can help to dissolve blackheads and other impurities. Sunflower oil: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, it is lightweight and easily absorbed, making it suitable for oil gritting.
Turmeric & Honey Mask
When combined with honey, it creates a potent mask that not only combats blackheads but also brightens and rejuvenates the skin. Mix a teaspoon of honey with a pinch of turmeric powder to form a paste, apply it to your face, and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.