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Most people have blackheads at some point in their lives, making them a fairly common skin problem. Blackheads are a mild form of acne that is caused by clogged hair follicles that turn black when exposed to air.
Causes of Blackheads
Each hair follicle in the human body contains a hair and an oil-producing gland. When oil, dirt and dead skin cells collect in the follicle opening, a bump in the skin, called a comedone, results. If the skin over the comedone opens, the air exposure will cause oxidization and turn it dark, resulting in a blackhead.
Many things can cause blackheads, which include:
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• age
• heredity
• amount of body oil produced
• medications
• hormonal changes
• skin care regimen
Symptoms of Blackheads
Unlike pimples, blackheads are not painful. They are a slightly raised bump that is dark in color. They are commonly found on the nose, but can also appear on the neck, shoulders and back.
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How to Get Rid of Blackheads
Cleaning the skin daily and applying all-natural treatments to the blackheads will help them to clear up quickly and safely.
Proper Skin Cleaning Regimen
Keeping skin clean is extremely important in preventing and treating blackheads. Because oil and dirt on the face contribute to the problem, washing the skin twice daily will minimize pors and treat the blackheads.
Clean skin every morning and night with a gentle oil-free and alcohol-free cleanser. Using alcohol and harsh cleansers can irritate and dry the skin. First, hands should be washed to remove any bacteria. Next, wet the affected areas with warm water to open the pores. Apply cleanser and wash the entire area two to three times with gentle, circular motions. Rinse the area with cool water to minimize pores and pat dry.
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Those with oily skin may consider following-up with a gentle astringent, which will help to remove any remaining oil.
Natural Remedies for Blackheads
Milk and nutmeg are a potent mixture for removing blackheads. Nutmeg is a natural exfoliant that has antibacterial properties, and milk contains lactic acid, which aids in removing dead skin cells. To make the remedy, combine one-half of a tablespoon of ground nutmeg with one tablespoon of milk, mixing the two into a paste. Apply the paste in gentle, circular motions to the face. Leave on for 20 minutes and rinse clean. Use up to twice a week for soft, clear skin.
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Honey and lemon have long been known for their healthy skin benefits. Raw honey provides moisture and nutrients to the skin and lemon helps to brighten, cleanse and kill bacteria. Place a few drops of honey on half of fresh lemon. Rub the honey and lemon all over the face and leave on for five to ten minutes before rinsing clean. The skin will instantly look brighter, and the dirt and bacteria that are causing the blackheads will be removed.
While blackheads can be frustrating to deal with, they are not contagious to others. If blackheads are picked at, however, there is the chance that the bacteria can spread across the skin, colonizing other areas that are touched after the acne.
As the most common skin problem in the United States, people who have to deal with blackheads or acne should not feel alone. A good skin cleaning routine and proper treatment will help blackheads to clear quickly.
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