How to Use Radish Seeds to Treat Blackheads

Blackheads are an acne related skin problem. They develop when hair follicles become clogged with skin cells and oils. Only hair follicles with large openings will become blackheads. Hair follicles with average or small openings will not permit air to reach the clogged materials and oxidize into a dark mass. Though not the first home remedy one thinks of, radish seeds have been used as a blackhead specific skin treatment for generations.

Things You'll Need

• Radish seeds
• Mortar and pestle

Instructions

Keep the Impacted Skin Clean

1. Limit daily washing to twice a day. Once for general cleansing and once before bed to remove sweat, dirt and built up skin products.

2. Rinse with cool water to close the pores and pat dry.

3. Consider going without cosmetics and other skin products during treatment to avoid further buildup in the pores. Limit their use following treatment to prevent new blackheads from forming.

Make a Cleansing Paste

1. Grind radish seeds into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.

2. Stir water, two drops at a time, into 3 tbsp. powdered radish seed until it reaches a thick, smooth consistency.

3. Use immediately or refrigerate in a tightly covered container.

Treat the Affected Skin

1. Wash areas infected with and prone to blackheads daily using the radish seed paste. Thin with more water if needed.

2. Rinse with cool, not cold, water and pat the skin dry.

3. Use the paste as a mask once or twice each week.

4. Spread a thin, even layer of paste over impacted skin and allow to dry.

5. Leave on for as little as 20 minutes or as long as overnight.

6. Remove the mask using a soft washcloth and lukewarm water.

7. Repeat until the blackheads are gone. Use the mask twice a month as a preventive measure once the skin has cleared up.

Tips & Warnings

• Save money by purchasing radish seeds in bulk from farm supply stores.

• Purify water by boiling or filtering for use in radish seed paste.

• Give affected skin a treat by refrigerating radish seed paste for 30 minutes before application. It will feel cool and soothing to the skin.

• Radish leaves may also be used to treat blackheads. Make a poultice and apply to the affected area for 5 to 10 minutes.

• Avoid harsh chemicals and practices that irritate the skin. They may lead to additional blackheads.

• Discontinue any treatment that causes swelling, burning, itching or pain.

• See a doctor if the development of acne coincides with weight gain or loss, hair loss and/or menstrual cycle changes.