Blackheads are yellow or blackish plugs or bumps occurring most often on the face and back. The cause of blackheads is a build-up of excess oils in the skin glands. As these oils oxidize they darken, giving blackheads their trademark color.
The primary problem with blackheads is that they are unsightly. Often, individuals will attempt to squeeze blackheads out of their skin. Unfortunately, this can cause infection and scarring and, as such, is not recommended. There are also a large number of cosmetics products on the market available for getting rid of blackheads; but these are often over-priced and always unnatural. Therefore, one of the best ways to get rid of blackheads are through home remedies. Let’s take a look at the best of them now.
The Best Natural Remedies for Blackheads
- Baking soda – Baking soda is often marketed in the cosmetics industry as a microdermabrasion product; however, regular baking soda is just as effective as the overpriced brand products you’d find in a drug store. To create a paste, mix one teaspoon of baking soda with two teaspoons of purified water. Next, apply to the affected area, massage thoroughly, then rinse. This will not only remove dead or damaged skin, but also loosen away the dirt and oil that cause blackheads.
- Lemon juice – Lemon juice is used for a wide range of skin problems including acne, acne scars, and blackheads. There are two beneficial ways to use lemon juice. First, combine four drops of lemon juice with one tablespoon of sugar and rub on the affected area. This will aid in blackhead removal as well as improve the overall look of your skin. For a softer face rub, combine lemon with yogurt, honey, and salt and apply to the affected area. This will act as an excellent prevention against blackheads as well as an effective moisturizer.
- Salt water – Although salt water is most often associated with home remedies for sore throats, it is also one of the most effective remedies for blackheads. Salt water works by drying out any excess oil located on your skin. Use daily and after continuous and consistent use, you’ll notice a large decrease in your number of blackheads.
- Toothpaste – Toothpaste is a great natural remedy for blackheads. Toothpaste, combined with rubbing the area with a toothbrush, works in two ways. First, the toothpaste dries out any excess oil there may be on your skin. This helps prevent the occurrence of future blackheads. Second, rubbing the affected area with a toothbrush acts as exfoliation and is a great way to loosen existing blackheads and leave your skin feeling softer and smoother.
- Honey – Honey is great for the skin in addition to being one of the most effective remedies for blackheads. Honey will not only hydrate and tighten your skin, but when used as a mask will effectively draw out blackheads. To make a mask, combine honey with cinnamon powder to form a paste. Apply the mask and if leave on for a few hours (preferably overnight). Remove the mask and you’ll see clearer, healthier skin.
- Raw egg – Although you may be reluctant to put raw egg on your face, it is an effective home remedy for many skin problems including blackheads. Beat one to two egg whites mixed with one tablespoon of honey and apply to the affected area for 30 minutes. It will not only remove your blackheads but will leave your skin looking more vibrant and healthy.
Conclusion
Blackheads can be unsightly and difficult to get rid of, even with expensive products located in most cosmetics departments. Fortunately, there are numerous home remedies for blackheads that are just as effective. Rather than spend money on over-hyped and synthetic products, try one of the home remedies noted above to get visibly clearer, healthier, and more vibrant skin.
