How to pop blackheads and how to prevent them
Let's get real about blackheads. You know, those annoying little intruders that take residence in our T-zone or around the nose. We've all been there, right? Let's face it, even if we hate to admit it, there's a strange sense of satisfaction from popping blackheads. However, reality check—it's a big no-no! Popping them won't give you a golden ticket to flawless skin. On the contrary, it could wreak havoc on your skin in the long run. So, let's delve into the what, why, and how of dealing with blackheads.
What are blackheads?
First off, let's understand what blackheads are. Picture a pore or hair follicle filled with all the stuff we don't want—sebum, dead skin, bacteria, you name it. When this clogged pore gets exposed to air, voila! You've got a blackhead. It gets its name from the dark brown or black color that appears due to oxidization of the trapped material. Blackheads differ from whiteheads and other types of acne, which have their own stories to tell.
How to pop blackheads, if you must
I know, I know—the urge to pop those blackheads is hard to resist. But trust me, it's a slippery slope you don't want to slide down. Doing so could aggravate the situation, leading to pain, scarring, and further irritation. However, if you absolutely can't ignore the urge, make sure you're visiting a skincare professional who knows their stuff.
If you decide to go rogue at home, try using clean fingers wrapped in a tissue to avoid damaging your skin. I also personally love using using cotton buds with a stiff tip to coax out the blockage! If you can find ones with a pointed tip, that’s even better.
Avoid using metal tools to pop blackheads because you can end up damaging your skin in the process if you’re not careful!
When popping, try different angles to see where the blackhead is more likely to come out smoothly. Forcing on one bad angle can cause more damage that it should. Press around the perimeter of the blackhead - not ON - until the contents are completely out. Blot with tissue afterwards and then cleanse your face with a mild cleanser when you’re finished.
How to prevent blackheads
Now, the real question is, how can we prevent these uninvited guests from turning up? The secret lies in keeping your pores unclogged. Sounds simple, right? Start by keeping your skin clean. Wash your face twice a day with a gentle low pH cleanser, and give it a good cleanse after a sweaty workout session. Regular exfoliation also keeps blackheads at bay. Consider using products with exfoliating agents like salicylic acid for this purpose.
That being said, make exfoliating a routine. This aids in getting rid of existing blackheads. Salicylic acid, the star ingredient here, works wonders by penetrating down the hair follicle and oil gland to combat blackheads. Other skincare heroes like retinoids also prove to be excellent for treating blackheads, as they help regulate the way oil glands in hair follicles function.
For an added punch, consider using pore strips, but with caution! Overuse could potentially irritate your skin. While they can offer a quick fix, without a proper prevention plan in place, you'll find your blackheads making a comeback tour.
In the end, remember, patience is a virtue when it comes to skincare. Blackheads can be infuriating and popping them might seem like an easy way out. But, we're better off leaving the extractions to the pros. Instead, focus on incorporating exfoliating products with key ingredients like retinoids or salicylic acid into your routine. Trust me, your skin will thank you in the long run. And yes, go ahead and use that pore strip occasionally if it makes you happy.
