There is something about those tiny, pesky blackheads that are so stubborn that they often have you pull your hair out in attempts to get rid of them, don’t you agree?

But have you ever wondered, what exactly are those or how can you put an end to them?

Today, through this article, we are going to decode everything about blackheads – from the causes to solutions in the form of home remedies and understand the best ways to keep blackheads at bay.

What Are Blackheads?

Blackheads are basically a form of acne that rise to the surface of the skin. They hold an oxidized version of melanin which is the dark pigment made by cells in the skin.

In simple terms, when a pore gets clogged and closes up, it is known as a whitehead. While, on the other hand, when the top remains open, a blackhead forms.

It is usually believed that blackheads are dark because the dirt in the specific pore is that colour. Contrary to popular notion, blackheads are black or dark gray because the oil and dead skin that clogs the pore oxidize when exposed to air.

Causes Of Blackheads

If you’re dealing with blackheads, you may be wondering, why do these pop-up? Some of these factors can increase the chance of developing blackheads. So, take note!

–        Age and hormonal changes

–        Inheritance

–        Blocking or covering pores by cosmetics and clothing

–        Excessive sweating

–        Overproduction of skin cells by the body

–        Performing activities that open the hair follicles

–        High humidity and grease in the environment

–        Use of some steroid-based drugs, such as corticosteroids

Why Do You Commonly Find Blackheads On The Nose?

We all can relate that the tip of the nose is home to blackheads. It generally happens because pores on your nose are usually bigger than the pores on the rest of your facial skin.

These pores are also connected to the sebaceous glands that produce sebum and natural oil in your skin. Also, skin in this area is the centre of more oil glands as compared to the rest of your face, thereby, cropping up more blackheads.

DIY Masks And Scrubs

Now that you know all about blackheads, we know what you must be wondering. You certainly can’t get rid of the skin pores and you definitely can’t stop the oil secretion in your skin, so what can you do, right?

Take a look at these effective homemade blackhead removal masks and scrubs and get flawless, blackhead-free skin.

Bentonite Clay Mask

A gentle ingredient that effectively works on blackheads is bentonite clay. It helps the skin in getting rid of excess oil and may help to loosen or even remove dirt from clogged pores.

Not only to your nose, but you can also extend this mask to your whole t-zone as blackheads tend to appear more in this area.

Method

–        Take 3 tablespoons of bentonite clay.

–        Add water to get a paste-like consistency.

–        You can also add lavender oil to the mix.

–        Apply the paste evenly on your face and leave it on for about 20 minutes.

–        Remove the mask with a soft cotton cloth dipped in water and gently wipe it off.

Cinnamon And Honey Mask

Is there anything the humble honey cannot pull off? Honey mixed with cinnamon powder is one of the most effective masks for blackhead removal. Both of these ingredients have antibacterial and cleansing properties.

Cinnamon is an astringent ingredient that is known for improving blood circulation, tightening the skin’s pores, and doesn’t let oil and dirt settle in. While honey hydrates the skin and makes it nourished and glowing.

Method

–        Take 3 tablespoons of organic honey.

–        Take 1 tablespoon of cinnamon powder.

–        Mix them together and make a thick paste.

–        Apply it on your damp face with the help of a brush.

–        Also note, stick to only the nose area as cinnamon can be irritating for sensitive skin.

–        Leave the mask on for 10 minutes.

–        Remove the mask with lukewarm water.

Sugar Scrub

One of the most proven home remedies to get rid of blackheads is to make yourself an effective sugar scrub. You just need two ingredients for this – sugar and jojoba oil. These ingredients will help in cutting down dead skin cells.

Method

–        Take a cup of white sugar.

–        Take three tablespoons of jojoba oil.

–        Stir the mixture well until you get an evenly thick paste.

–        You can also use almond oil or olive oil, as per your convenience.

–        Apply it to your nose area and massage it for a minute or two.

–        Let it sit for 4-5 minutes

–        Rinse it off with lukewarm water.

–        You can scrub at least twice a week to get the desired results.

Oatmeal And Yoghurt Scrub

Method

–        Take 2 tablespoons of oatmeal.

–        Take 3 tablespoons of plain yogurt

–        You can also take half a lemon juice.

–        Mix the ingredients well until you get a fine paste.

–        Apply this to your nose area and massage it for a minute.

–        Leave the scrub for 10-15 minutes.

–        Rinse it off with lukewarm water.

You can scrub with this mixture once a week to get the desired results.

          Source: Her Zindigi