- A blackhead forms in the pores of the skin after the oil gets clogged and then hardens. It turns black from the air and dirt that get into it. Blackheads are often a sign that acne is setting in.
- Puberty usually triggers blackheads after the hormones have started to produce excess oils. People with extremely oily skin are also more prone to blackheads than people with dry skin.
- It is recommended that people who suffer with blackheads always keep their skin clean. For many people this means washing their face at least twice per day. However, if blackheads are very obvious and they are large enough to remove and have no visible sign of infection, a blackhead remover can be used. A blackhead remover is a long skinny device that has a thin wire or plastic loop at each end. At one end the loop is small so that it can retrieve small individual blackheads. At the other end the loop is larger so that it can retrieve large blackheads or multiple small ones that have gathered in clusters.
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Before using a blackhead remover, make sure that the face is clean. Steaming the skin first can open up pores so that the blackhead can be removed easier. To steam your face boil a pot of water and then remove it from the burner. Place your face over the top of the boiling water, and if you desire to lengthen the steam time, place a towel over top of your head to lock in the steam. Pat the face dry after steaming and immediately use the blackhead remover to squeeze the blackhead out of the skin.
- Always clean your face thoroughly after removing blackheads with a blackhead remover. This will help to clean out the infected pore, lessening the chance of further blackhead breakouts or pimples.
- Blackhead removers can be purchased at many drug stores such as RiteAid and Walgreen's for around $10. They can also be purchased at most large department stores such as Walmart and Target for around the same price. Blackhead removers can also be purchased online and sent directly to your home.
