Do’s and Don’ts of Blackhead Removal

When it comes to blackhead removal, many individuals are actually doing more harm to their skin than good.

In addition to introducing more bacteria into the area, you can potentially bruise and even scar your skin if this procedure is not done properly.

First of all, you should understand exactly what a blackhead is and how it is formed.

Blackheads are actually dirt, debris, and dead skin cells trapped beneath the layer of the skin’s surface. The black color comes from pigmentation of this blockage from the presence of the sun.

Blackheads are formed when a pore is clogged with oil produced by the sebaceous gland that lies underneath the pore.

Once this pore becomes blocked, all sorts of other materials—as previously mentioned, dirt, debris, and dead skin cells—mix with this oil and remain trapped just under the skin’s surface.

If you are interested in removing the blackheads that are clogging your pores, consider the simple steps:

Step One: Visit a Professional

Typically, the safest and easiest way to undergo blackhead removal is to visit a professional aesthetician.

These trained individuals have a way to extract the blockage without damaging your skin.

In addition to using certain techniques, an aesthetician will treat your skin with a series of washes, lotions, and masques that work to extract the toxins that are causing blemishes.

Even if you do not plan on regularly visiting an aesthetician, consider doing so for the first visit in order to ensure your skin is looking its best.

Keep in mind that you will need to continue diligent care at home even if you do plan on making regularly appointments with an aesthetician.

Step Two: Treat Your Pores

One of the reasons why your pores become blocked, making blackhead removal a necessity is due to their size.

Typically, pores on certain areas of your skin will be larger than those in other areas, but they can be stretched by blockages over time.

Look to shrink your pores by using certain products or procedures that will allow this process to be successful.

If your pores are smaller, they are less likely to become blocked by dirt and debris found on your skin. Think of your pores like the holes in a sieve. Fine mesh sieves do not allow penetration of larger items.

Ways to shrink your pores include using certain prescription topical treatments or using laser therapy for a more permanent solution.

Step Three: Keep Your Skin Clean

As previously mentioned, black heads are caused by debris that collects on the surface of your skin.

This debris can be everything from sweat, dead skin cells, dirt, and even pollutants found in the air. Keep your skin clean and properly exfoliated to prevent any of these items from clogging your pores.

Step Four: Learn Correct Techniques

When you wish to perform a blackhead removal procedure in your own home, be sure to know the correct techniques. Simply squeezing your skin is often not enough and can lead to future damage.

Also, the bacteria found under your fingernails—no matter how clean they appear—can further infect the area and cause a greater breakout.

Consider purchasing a special tool that allows for quick and easy removal of your blackheads, but be sure to thoroughly clean the instrument after use.

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