How to Reduce the Appearance of Blackheads on the Nose

Clean your face twice a day and apply blackhead-removing medications.

Blackheads, or comedones, are a symptom of acne that typically occurs in the face. Blackheads can result when the oil glands produce too much oil. This leads to an accumulation of oil in pores or hair follicles. When exposed to air, the oil buildup turns black. Blackheads can result from hormonal changes, improper washing of the skin, bacterial buildup or using topical skin products and makeup that clog the pores. Proper hygiene and some over-the-counter medications can help reduce the appearance of blackheads on the nose.

Instructions

1. Wash your face twice a day with warm water and mild soap or blackhead cleanser. Do not overwash your face; this can make your skin sensitive and worsen the condition.

2. Apply a medicated ointment on your nose after washing your face. Start with an ointment that contains benzoyl peroxide. This helps remove excess oil and dead skin cells from your face, and also helps prevent pores from clogging. Apply only a small layer of the ointment on your nose and other problem areas. Do not apply on areas free of blackheads.

3. Try medicated ointments other than benzoyl peroxide to find out one that fits your skin and gives you the best results. Try salicylic acid ointment that slows down shedding of cells inside hair follicles and prevents pores from clogging, according to the Mayo Clinic. Salicylic acid cream may also break down blackheads. Start with an ointment that contains only 0.5 percent salicylic acid. You may also try a cream that contains sulfur, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide and helps remove dead skin, excess oil and prevents clogged pores.

4. Use blackhead remover or extractors a few times a week. These products are found in beauty stores. Wash your face first. Apply a warm compress over your nose or place your face over a bowl filled with hot water to apply hot steam to your nose. This will help open the pores in your nose and ease the blackhead removal. Do not squeeze the blackheads with your hands; this can break the skin and introduce bacteria into the pores.

5. Use only oil-free creams and cosmetics that do not clog the pores in your nose. Using oily products can worsen blackheads.

Tips & Warnings

• If your acne and blackheads do not show any improvement within two months consult your doctor about prescription medications or see a dermatologist.

References

• MayoClinic.com; Acne; November 2009
• MayoClinic.com; Over-the-Counter Acne Products; What Works And Why; April 2010
• Medical News Today; What are Blackheads? How to Get Rid of Blackheads; May 2007