Deep Blackheads. Stubborn and annoying little spots on the skin. Whether you are 13 or 30, we all deal with them at some point. To get rid of them, you could see a dermatologist and purchase expensive treatments that may or may not be covered by insurance. That’s if you even have insurance in the first place.
It’s a good thing that there are other options.
Lots of people these days are giving natural home treatments a try when it comes to skincare issues. Seeing a doctor can be time-consuming and expensive.
Oftentimes, natural treatments are more affordable and can be less harsh on your skin than expensive, pharmaceutical chemicals. And as an added bonus, you can do them from the comfort of your own home.
What causes deep blackheads to form?
Before learning how to safely treat blackheads at home, you should probably understand what causes them in the first place.
Deep blackheads are a form of acne. They are essentially clogged pores. Overtime, pores can become clogged when things like dead skin cells and bacteria mix with the natural oil inside our pores. It sounds gross, but it’s completely normal and very common.
Is there any way to prevent deep blackheads from forming?
One way to prevent blackheads from forming, is to regularly cleanse your skin. One of the most common places that blackheads form is on the face. Our faces are naturally oily and constantly exposed to bacteria and other pore clogging things like cosmetics. It’s important to wash your face daily to prevent your pores from getting clogged.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a benzoyl peroxide emollient foam wash when cleansing the skin. They recommend not using the more harsh products which include: “antibacterial soaps, astringents, and abrasive scrubs.” These kinds of products can actually worsen acne.
They also advise the use of skincare and make up products that do not contain oil (oil free). Product labels that pertain to this include non-acnegenic, non-comedogenic, or oil-free.
How do you get rid of deep blackheads at home?
One way to remove deep blackheads, is to use a product that promotes skin peeling. Skin peeling helps to peel away the blackheads plugged deep within the pores.
Medical News Today recommends the following options for skin peeling agents:
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs): AHAs are those acids that are found naturally in milk, various fruits and sugar cane. These acids can encourage exfoliation.
Look for natural scrubs and cleansers that include glycolic, mandolin, and lactic acids as these help reduce deep blackheads.
Before using a product with AHAs, it’s recommended that you test it on a small patch of skin such as the inside of your elbow. If you experience any irritation such as burning, rinse it thoroughly and do not apply to your face.
The FDA also warns that the use of AHAs can cause sensitivity to UV rays. So, always make sure to wear sunscreen when using these products.
Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid is found naturally in willow trees. It is also a natural peeling agent that can help to peel away blackheads. Salicylic acid penetrates the skin and dissolves dead skin cells that clog your pores.
Healthline warns that while salicylic acid is typically thought to be safe, it can sometimes result in skin irritation. It may also remove too much oil, resulting in dryness and potential irritation.
Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The National Institute of Health suggests that “products containing tea tree oil can help manage symptoms without severe adverse effects.”
Getting rid of deep blackheads. Use the following steps for diluting, testing, and applying tea tree oil:
1. Add 1 to 2 drops of tea tree oil to 12 drops of a carrier oil, such as avocado, coconut or olive oil.
2. Before using this oil on your skin, test a small amount on your elbow. Look for any signs of negative reactions, such as those related to allergy or sensitivity and include, burning, swelling or itching.
3. Before applying the oil, wash your face with a gentle cleanser, and pat it dry.
4. Apply diluted tea tree oil by dabbing it on problem areas with a cotton ball or pad and let it dry.
5. Apply your regular lotion or moisturizer.
6. Repeat morning and night.
What You Should Avoid
Most experts, such as the American Academy of Dermatology, are in agreement when it comes to the one thing you should avoid when trying to rid your face of deep blackheads.
DO NOT PICK AT OR ATTEMPT TO POP THEM.
Although it is tempting, picking at blackheads will only make things worse. Picking at your face introduces new bacteria, irritates and even injures the surrounding skin, and can often cause scarring.
If possible, it is best to resist the urge to pick at deep blackheads. Scars are for life, and blackheads can actually go away with patience and proper treatment.
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