Although often found on the face, blackheads are blemishes that can appear anywhere on the skin. These sometimes painful and unsightly blemishes are caused by many factors such as excess oil, dead skin cells, clogged pores, and bacteria. While easy to treat, the best way to avoid complicated treatments is to prevent blackheads from forming in the first place.
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Part 1 of 2: Keeping Skin Clean
Step 1. Clean the skin regularly
Regular facial cleansing to remove dirt and excess oil is very important. This can prevent the formation of blackheads or clogged pores.
- Use a mild, pH neutral cleanser. You can also look for facial cleansers that contain salicylic acid, as these can be very helpful in keeping pores clean and preventing acne breakouts.
- Cleansing products that don't hurt the skin can be purchased at most supermarkets and pharmacies.
- If your skin is very oily, consider using a facial cleanser that doesn't contain oil. However, if you have dry skin, try using a glycerol-based or cream-based cleanser.
- Do not use bar soap because the ingredients can clog pores.
- Use warm water to wash your face. Water that is too hot can lift the oil on the skin and injure it.
Step 2. Do not clean the skin too often
Although important, skin cleansing should not be done excessively. If done too often or too hard, the skin can be injured, lifting the oil in it, and triggering more severe skin problems.
Cleansing the pimple-prone area twice a day is enough to help keep it clean and prevent blackheads
Step 3. Remove makeup before going to bed
Sleeping without removing make-up or using cosmetic products can clog pores. Before going to bed, remove all makeup or cosmetics with a gentle facial cleanser or makeup remover.
- Before going to bed, use a special makeup remover (especially if you use a waterproof product), or a gentle facial cleanser. Most facial cleansers are also effective at removing makeup.
- Every month, try cleaning your makeup kit or cosmetic sponge with soapy water to remove bacteria that can clog your pores.
Step 4. Shower after strenuous activity
If you are a very active person, take a shower after a strenuous activity. Sweat can trigger the emergence of bacteria and excess oil on the skin which can later cause blackheads.
Do not clean areas of the body that are prone to blackheads with harsh bar soaps. Just use a mild pH balanced soap
Part 2 of 2: Using Other Prevention Methods
Step 1. Apply moisturizer every day
After washing your face, apply a moisturizer that suits your skin type. Blackheads can be prevented if the skin is properly hydrated.
- Even though it's oily, your skin still needs a moisturizer. Choose a moisturizer that does not contain oil and does not clog pores.
- Contact a dermatologist or skin care expert to help determine your skin type. Products specially formulated for specific skin types and problems can be purchased at most pharmacies, stores, and supermarkets.
Step 2. Remove the dead skin layer regularly
Dead skin can clog pores and cause blackheads. Exfoliating the skin gently and regularly can help remove dead skin and bacteria so that blackheads don't appear.
- Remember that exfoliating products will only lift the surface skin and will not remove blackheads.
- Choose a gentle exfoliating product with synthetic or natural grains of the same shape. Rough scrubbing can cause ongoing irritation and blackheads. Soft towels can also exfoliate the skin.
Step 3. Absorb excess oil
If you have oily skin, use an external medicine/product to absorb excess oil. This process will not only help remove the oil, but also keep away bacteria and dead skin that can cause blackheads.
- You can use over-the-counter medications that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Or, for more severe cases, call your doctor and use the recommended medication.
- Using a clay mask can help absorb excess oil and cleanse the skin.
- You can use absorbent paper to absorb excess oil on your face.
- Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions or the instructions on the medicine package so you don't overuse the product and injure your skin.
- Products to absorb the oil can be purchased at pharmacies, some supermarkets, and through the internet.
Step 4. Use a product that does not clog pores and does not cause allergies
Choose cosmetics or skin care products such as moisturizers and sunscreens that don't clog pores. In addition to not clogging pores, these products can also help prevent further irritation.
- Products marked “non-comedogenic” have been tested on acne-prone skin. This product will not make existing pimples worse or cause new blackheads to appear.
- Products marked “hypoallergenic” have been tested on sensitive skin and will not injure the skin.
- These products have various types including makeup, sunscreen, moisturizer and toner. You can buy it at most pharmacies, supermarkets, online shops or some stores.
Step 5. Don't touch the blackheads
Don't be tempted to remove blackheads by touching or squeezing them. Touch and pressure on the skin can spread oil and bacteria which can make the problem of blackheads worse.
Touch and pressure on the skin can also cause further irritation
Step 6. Remove large or hard-to-remove blackheads
In some cases, some people have blackheads that are large or difficult to disappear. Blackheads like this can be removed with a blackhead remover. However, use this tool only in acute conditions.
- Blackhead removal kits can be purchased at most pharmacies and stores that sell skin care products.
- Be sure to clean the skin before using the appliance to minimize the risk of spreading bacteria.
- Warm your skin with a warm compress a minute or two before using the appliance.
- Do not pull blackheads by force. If the blackheads don't come out after the first try, leave the blackheads on for a few days to minimize irritation and stimulate healing.
- Follow the instructions for using the tool so that it can be used effectively.
- Call a dermatologist if you have a lot of blackheads or are unsure how to use the blackhead remover. Dermatologists can remove blackheads using a blackhead remover tool more effectively.
Step 7. Wear loose clothing
Tight clothing can retain heat and moisture, which irritates the skin and causes blackheads. Loose-fitting clothing can help keep skin dry and comfortable, and prevent blemishes from forming.
- Clothing that absorbs sweat or moisture can help keep your skin dry and prevent acne breakouts.
- Natural fabrics like cotton can be a good choice if you have sensitive skin. Avoid rough fabrics like wool to help prevent irritation.
- Clean fabrics that come into contact with skin, including pillowcases, regularly. Use a mild laundry soap that doesn't clog pores or hurt the skin.
Step 8. Carefully examine your diet
There is evidence that a nutritionally balanced diet can affect the skin. Avoiding junk and unhealthy foods can help prevent blackheads and other types of acne.
- Foods that are high in fat and sugar can slow down cell turnover, causing clogged pores and blackheads. Try not to eat too many sweets and fried foods.
- Foods that are high in vitamin A and beta carotene, including fruits and vegetables such as raspberries and carrots, can accelerate cell regeneration for healthier skin.
- Foods high in essential fatty acids, such as walnuts or olive oil, can help keep skin cells hydrated.
- A healthy diet also provides vitamins and antioxidants that are important for promoting healthy skin.
- Part of a balanced diet is good hydration. Try drinking 8 glasses of water every day to keep your body and skin healthy.
Step 9. Call your doctor or dermatologist if your blackheads are severe or difficult to remove
Your doctor or dermatologist can suggest the best products for your skin as well as prescribe medications for special creams (if needed) such as retinoids, which are good at keeping pores clean and keeping acne at bay.
