How to Remove Blackheads With Tape

Blackheads are unattractive, unappealing and a bit of an annoyance, particularly as they have a way of cropping up at the most inconvenient times--like the morning before a big date. The best way to deal with them is through the stringent application of medicated facial washes. But however healthy, this method can require several weeks of your time before any results are visible. If you need to get rid of your blackheads immediately, but can't afford a box of those expensive removal strips, the solution may be lying in the bottom of your desk drawer. There are three different methods of blackhead removal using common household items and the world's most popular adhesive strip: tape.

Things You'll Need

• School glue
• Cellophane tape
• Pan
• Sugar
• Honey
• Lemon juice
• Glycerine
• Candy thermometer
• Cloth
• Unflavored gelatin
• Milk

Instructions

Method 1--The Elmer's Approach

1. Pour approximately 1 tsp. of white school glue into the palm of your hand.

2. Using the tip of your index finger, apply a liberal coat of glue to the affected area. Smooth the glue to create an even layer over your skin.

3. Allow the glue to dry for approximately 10 minutes.

4. Cover the glue with a long strip of clear tape, pressing firmly to ensure that a decent seal is formed between the two products.

5. Wait an additional five minutes and then carefully peel off the tape. You should be able to see the blackheads stuck in the glue.

Method 2--The Sweeter Way

1. Follow this "sensitive skin" formula if you have a bad reaction to glue, or simply find the idea unappealing. Mix ½ cup granulated sugar, ¼ cup honey and 2 tbsp. lemon juice in a small pan.

2. Place over medium heat. Clip on a candy thermometer and begin to stir. When the mixture reaches 245 degrees F, remove it from the heat.

3. Stir in 1 tsp. of glycerine and mix until well-blended.

4. Set the mixture aside and allow it to cool slightly. When it is still warm to the touch, but not so hot as to be uncomfortable, apply it to the affected area.

5. Spread the mixture evenly with the tips of your fingers and then cover it with a strip of clean cloth.

6. Press the cloth firmly into place and hold in position for 10 seconds. Wait five minutes and cover the cloth strip with a piece of adhesive tape.

7. Leave in place an additional 10 minutes, then peel the tape away, removing the blackheads from your skin

Method 3--The Knox Technique

1. Try this alternative method if the first two don't work for you. Begin by placing 1 tbsp. of unflavored gelatin and 1 ½ tbsp. of milk in a microwave-proof bowl.

2. Mix with a fork until well-blended.

3. Microwave on full power for 15 seconds.

4. Apply to the affected area and allow the milk mixture to dry for 20 minutes.
   .

5. Cover the milk application with strips of clear tape and press firmly into place.

6. Wait an additional 10 minutes and then slowly peel the tape away

Tips & Warnings

• Some people have reported success with the application of clear tape on its own, particularly to the nose. It may be worth it to try this first. Perform the blackhead removal early in the day, as any of the given procedures may cause your skin temporarily redden.

• Try any new procedure in a small, inconspicuous area first, as it is possible to have an allergic reaction to any new chemical applied to the skin. Do not apply near the eyes or mouth. If products accidentally enter the eyes, flush with copious amounts of clear water. If a product accidentally enters the mouth, spit it out and gargle immediately with warm water.

Resources

• Homemade Beauty Recipes
• Homemade Beauty Treatment Slideshow