When we notice blackheads on our face , we have a desire to get rid of them as quickly as possible. But what is the best way to do this and is it possible to squeeze out blackheads?
Experts say that with the right approach this can be done . Squeezing out blackheads is one of the stages of mechanical facial cleansing, which helps improve the condition of the skin.
Where do blackheads come from?
Black dots on the skin of the face are formed at the end of the pore , they are also called comedones. They are compacted sebaceous plugs that are darkened by the admixture of cosmetics, dust and dirt.
This problem most often affects people with oily skin, but no one is immune from the formation of comedones.
Causes of blackheads:
- insufficient skin cleansing,
- use of comedogenic cosmetics,
- disruption of the process of sebum secretion and self-cleaning of pores in the body.
Most often, comedones form on areas of the skin with enlarged pores , that is, on the nose or chin.
However, they can also appear in other places, such as on the cheeks, forehead or lips.
Causes of blackheads on the face
Why do blackheads appear on the face? Comedones become noticeable due to blockage of the sebaceous glands. It can occur under the influence of various factors:
- poor nutrition;
- some gastrointestinal diseases;
- hormonal changes;
- insufficient hygiene;
- use of low-quality cosmetics;
- bad habits;
- taking a number of medications.
If, after a course of cosmetic procedures, the patient properly cares for the skin, but soon notices the reappearance of open comedones, additional examination may be recommended. It will help identify the causes of blockage of the sebaceous glands, which means it will make the fight against the problem more effective.
What to do with blackheads
To get rid of comedones , you need to keep your skin clean and take measures to narrow the pores. If the reason for the appearance of blackheads is only poor hygiene, then these measures will help after a while.
If the reason is the use of comedogenic creams, then you should discard them and replace them with more suitable ones. However, it will also take time to restore normal skin condition.
The fastest way to get results is to squeeze out the contents of comedones .
How to squeeze out blackheads correctly? This is best done by a professional cosmetologist , but it is possible to perform a similar procedure at home.
Most often, it has to be repeated regularly, so it would be a good idea to learn how to squeeze out blackheads yourself .
Mechanical facial cleansing
The main method of combating comedones is their regular removal and maintaining clean facial skin.
How to get rid
Cleansing facial skin from blackheads is possible using various cosmetological techniques. Among the most common and accessible: cleaning (manual or ultrasonic) and peeling.
Facial cleansing from blackheads by a cosmetologist
The procedure is an effective, but at the same time safe effect that allows you to eliminate impurities and excess sebum, get rid of oily shine and acne.
Stages of facial cleansing from blackheads by a cosmetologist:
- skin cleansing;
- warming it up, softening it, applying a pore-opening mask;
- removal of comedones;
- moisturizing the skin, narrowing pores.
It is advisable to clean your face from blackheads in the salon every 1-2 months. The price of the service is very affordable: it starts from 3,000 rubles.
Changes in the interval are possible in agreement with a specialist (the optimal frequency of the procedure depends on the type of skin, the degree of its contamination and some other factors).
Ultrasonic facial cleansing
Ultrasonic cleansing against blackheads is a simple and reliable way to get rid of blocked sebaceous glands. It differs from the mechanical procedure by significantly less trauma to the skin tissue, as well as painlessness.
During the session, ultrasonic vibrations are applied, which eliminates dead cells, blackheads and excess sebum.
Effectiveness against blackheads is not the only advantage of ultrasonic facial cleansing; the procedure has an impressive list of indications:
- enlarged pores;
- decreased skin tone;
- acne and post-acne;
- small welts and scars.
To achieve optimal effect, a course of 4-6 sessions is recommended.
Squeezing out blackheads
After preparing your facial skin, you can begin the procedure itself. How can you squeeze out blackheads? This can be done with your fingers or using special tools .
When squeezing with your fingers, you should wrap gauze napkins around them to protect the skin from scratches that may be left by your nails.
How to do it:
- gently place your fingers on both sides of the comedone,
- press on the skin without squeezing the blackhead.
Please note that the skin does not need to be squeezed, the pressure should be directed downwards. This will allow the contents of the pore to come out and cleanse it.
Causes and types of acne scars
In addition to the already mentioned reasons for the formation of scars, the clearness of the skin can be affected by a childhood illness, for example, chickenpox, a genetic predisposition to the appearance of scars, insufficient or excessive production of collagen and reduced immunity, as well as other disorders in the body.
To understand how to get rid of a pimple scar, you need to determine its nature. Scars are:
- normotrophic;
- keloids;
- atrophic;
- hypertrophic.
Normotrophic ones are the most harmless of all. They are on the same level as healthy skin, the color is slightly lighter than the general tone. They occur during normal tissue fusion and disappear over time.
Keloids are the most unpleasant. In damaged tissues, excess collagen is formed - the main building material of cells. Because of this, the scar is located above the skin texture and can grow over time. Young keloids are red and pink in color (this is due to increased pressure of excess fibers on the nearest capillaries), and old scars are usually white. Read more about how to remove a keloid scar in our article.
Atrophic - located below the skin level. They are also called pits, pockmarks or potholes. They are formed as a result of a lack of collagen in the damaged area, sometimes they go away on their own after a year or two, but more often they require medical or cosmetic intervention.
Hypertrophic - similar in character and appearance to keloids, however, they remain within the injured area, without over time affecting the adjacent healthy skin. However, just like keloids, hypertrophic scars tend to get larger.
Any of the listed types is noticeable on the body even under a dense tan: unlike healthy skin, scar cells lack the substance responsible for the production of pigmentation. Unfortunately, the options of hiding an unsightly defect under a thick layer of cosmetics or covering it up with a tattoo are not always feasible - clogging the pores of the skin or injuring the epidermis with a needle, there is a great danger of only aggravating the situation.
Skin care after the procedure
After squeezing out blackheads, the skin must be treated with an antiseptic to prevent infection. Antiseptics can be any:
- tincture of calendula,
- cleansing lotions,
- salicylic alcohol.
The final stage is tightening the pores , that is, reducing their size.
To do this, you can buy special products or use “grandmother’s” methods. For example, wipe your face with a piece of herbal ice .
A mask made from egg whites has a good effect on narrowing pores . When it dries, it forms a thin, tightening film, which is washed off with warm water. After removing the mask, rinse your face with cold water.
How to remove acne scars
The scar reduction method is selected based on the type of scar, age and capabilities of the patient. Modern technologies can solve the problem using cosmetology, medicine or physiotherapy, and it is possible to combine several of these methods.
Cosmetology
For medium, large and old scars, it makes sense to seek help from a cosmetologist. What it has to offer:
- mesotherapy;
- scrubbing;
- dermabrasion;
- ozone therapy;
- laser therapy;
- and phenol cleansing.
Mesotherapy involves injections of vitamin complexes or collagen into the damaged area and is used for atrophic scars. The disadvantage of the procedure is the additional trauma from the syringe needle and the need to repeat the injection every six months.
Scrubbing is the removal of the top layer of skin with acids. Removes small scars and increases cell regeneration. The procedure ends with the obligatory application of a layer of collagen cream. However, this method is not painless, and with deep scrubbing, some patients even require anesthesia.
Dermabrasion is the cutting down of the stratum corneum of the skin in the area of the scar. It is used for keloid and hypertrophic scars; in particularly advanced cases it can be prescribed as a course. Just like scrubbing, dermabrasion is painful and involves a short rehabilitation period for the skin, during which the face must be protected from aggressive sunlight and not use decorative cosmetics.
Ozone therapy is similar in principle to mesotherapy, however, instead of collagen, an ozone cocktail is introduced into the scar tissue. The mixture nourishes cells, stimulates blood flow and regeneration of healthy skin.
Laser therapy cuts down the raised scar with a laser beam. In a few sessions, you can completely get rid of acne scars, but the fibrous tissue remains, which means the scar may reappear.
Phenol cleansing involves applying a phenol solution to the scar. The application acts for 1 hour, after which it is washed off with water. Many cosmetologists note the effectiveness and safety of the procedure.
However, for large and serious scars, cosmetology is not enough.
Surgery
For hypertrophic and keloid advanced overgrown scars, surgical excision of the scar may be prescribed. This is a painful process that requires the proper qualifications and accuracy of the doctor - if carried out incorrectly, the scar can grow larger than it was before the operation.
But such a procedure is prescribed in extreme cases, usually treated with a course of medications or cosmetic medications in combination with physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy
It involves influencing the problem area using physical methods, for example, galvanic current or ultrasound. Thus, the action of the device transfers the drug particles into the deep layers of the epidermis, where they cannot reach during conventional applications.
To remove a pimple scar on the skin, phonophoresis or electrophoresis is prescribed.
Phonophoresis - influences with the help of ultrasound, stimulates tissue regeneration. Apply a thick layer of a special cream or ointment to the problem area, press the device tightly against it, and turn on the required mode. The procedure is painless and multifunctional: in addition to fighting scars, it is used to smooth out fine wrinkles and saturate the facial skin with useful substances.
Electrophoresis - uses alternating galvanic current. Differently charged electrodes are connected to the device and to a gasket soaked in a medicinal solution. The pad is placed on the patient's body, and during the session he experiences a slight tingling sensation. A course of electrophoresis is prescribed not only for the treatment of acne scars, but also as rehabilitation after lung diseases, radiculitis, back pain, lymphatic drainage and other medical and cosmetic problems.
Physiotherapy is often used to increase the effect of cosmetic products: acne masks cleanse the skin better, the results of lifting creams last longer, and anti-scar products begin to work faster.
Unlike cosmetic procedures, phonophoresis and electrophoresis can be performed at home - just purchase a portable device. The session does not require special medical skills, the devices are easy to use and the functionality allows them to be used by the whole family.
I’m embarrassed to ask: 8 questions to a dermatologist about how to overcome the problem of blackheads on the face
What are blackheads?
Blackheads, or open comedones, are the openings of sebaceous follicles clogged with a mixture of thick sebum and horny skin cells. The black color of the tip of the comedone is given by melanin and oxidized sebum.
Important: blackheads do not equal acne, while acne is always accompanied by comedones.
Most often, blackheads appear where there is a high density of sebaceous glands: chin, nose, forehead.
Which skin is more susceptible to the formation of blackheads?
Most often it is oily and combination skin types. Men's skin is typically thicker and oilier than women's. As a result, blackheads are more common in men. However, it is important to remember that there is also such a thing as a skin condition, which often provokes confusion and makes it difficult to correctly classify your skin type.
Why is this happening? Incorrectly selected facial care, excessive use of acids, neglect of moisturizing and photoprotection often lead to the formation of sensitive skin syndrome.
It is important to understand that it is impossible to get rid of blackheads once and for all, but it is more than possible to reduce their severity, as well as control the condition of your face.
So, what to do if you are overcome by blackheads?
If the goal is not to camouflage, but to really deal with this problem for a long time and seriously, retinoids (or preparations based on retinol, which is a synthetic analogue of vitamin A) are the first serious measure in the fight against this unesthetic phenomenon. But which retinol product should you choose?
Adapalene is a substance classically used in dermatology to not only get rid of comedones, but also to correct acne and post-acne. Retinoids must be introduced gradually, for the first 7-14 days - pointwise, every other day, gradually increasing the area of application and the frequency of use per week.
However, keep in mind that the use of adapalene is often associated with the occurrence of an irritation reaction, which can be manifested by a burning sensation, redness of the facial skin, peeling and even the formation of crusts. In order to minimize the risk of adverse events, it is necessary to use specialized products for skin that has become dry during drug treatment. For example, the pharmacy brand Bioderma has Sebium Sensitive cream.
In any case, before you decide to do this, consult a dermatologist.
Cream for problem skin Sebium Sensitive, Bioderma
What to do with facial care products for blackheads?
As for moisturizers, use them no earlier than 30-40 minutes after applying medications.
Another important nuance is the increase in skin sensitivity to the sun due to the use of preparations with retinol. Previously, dermatologists recommended limiting the use of retinoids in the summer due to the risk of skin burns and pigmentation. But now the concept of seasonality is gradually blurring and depends only on your willingness to follow the recommendations of your doctor.
Be sure to use sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside if the UV index is greater than 2. You can view the UV index value in the Weather app by scrolling down the feed. Remember that SPF must be renewed every 2 hours, and when in contact with water and sweat, most sunscreens reduce their effectiveness by up to 50%.
Lotion Seratsin, Librederm
What else can you use for blackheads?
Another recognized fighter against inflammation and blackheads is salicylic acid. Important! Alcohol-based salicylic acid is not suitable!
Use alcohol-free salicylic lotions or wipes 1-2 times a day.
Also, rashes are often localized in the area of hair and beard growth. This is associated with systematic micro-traumas in these areas. In addition, in this case it is not very convenient to use creams and gels. For these areas, it is better to use liquid dosage forms - solutions and lotions. Most often these are drugs that contain an antibiotic or zinc.
These drugs are not used for prophylactic purposes. They are indicated for stopping the inflammatory process.
Remedies for blackheads
Salicylic Gel, Malin + Goetz
Anti-blackhead remedy Blackhead Solutions, Clinique
Stick for eliminating local imperfections Purifying Concentrate, Academie
Are there any other SOS remedies for blackheads?
These may be drugs that include tea tree oil, niacinamide, sulfur, and resorcinol.
Do clay masks work for blackheads?
It depends on what result you expect to get. They help visually reduce pores, get a mattifying effect, and lighten post-acne a little.
In rare cases, so-called “blackhead patches” can also be used locally. But remember that they are made using adhesive to pull out anything they come into contact with, including the top layer of your skin. Most of the "dirt" you'll notice stuck to the strip isn't actually blackheads, but your sebaceous filaments, which are best left on your face. In addition, overuse of such patches causes irritation and redness, and also leads to enlarged capillaries around the nose, which are much more difficult to remove than blackheads.
Well, the most important thing: such strips can only provide a temporary aesthetic effect, but they do not eliminate the causes of the problem.
Nivea Cleansing Strips
Anti-blackhead nasal cleansing strips, Too Cool For School
What is the best facial care regimen to follow for blackheads?
Care for skin prone to the formation of blackheads and acne should not be overloaded. Often the source of problems is dehydrated sensitive skin.
What care should include
Base
1. Cleansing is a must in the morning. For this purpose, micellar solutions, gels and cleansing foams can be used. There is an opinion that for blackheads it is best to wash with soap, which in reality is a categorical taboo. However, there are so-called “soapless soaps” that have a neutral or slightly acidic pH. That's a different conversation.
Deep Cleanse Facial Wash, Elemis
2. Do you need a toner? Its use is not at all necessary. The original idea of the tonic is to restore pH and “re-cleanse” the skin. Today, global brands create products with optimal pH.
3. If necessary, we use moisturizers and complete the treatment by applying SPF cream 20 minutes before leaving the house. Of course, this point can be adjusted, let’s say if you don’t plan to have any contact with the sun at all.
4. In the evening - cleansing the skin, applying adapalene-based preparations, and finally - a moisturizer for skin that has become dry during drug treatment.
Additional care products
5. Once or twice a week, you can use gommage masks and home peelings, which, on the one hand, will be aimed at reducing other manifestations of problematic skin (for example, post-acne spots), and on the other, will work on the quality of the skin.
6. You can also use other auxiliary products during the day, for example, products with a mattifying and hair-tightening effect. For example, concentrates and serums to tighten pores or masks with kaolin.
Vinopure Skin Perfecting Serum, Caudalie
7. If you prefer professional skincare products, you can also consider the Institut Esthederm brand. As a basic care, you will benefit from the Propolis line, which, together with basic therapy with external retinoids, will potentiate the positive effects of treatment, helping to achieve the most positive result.
Pore-cleansing cream concentrate Pure, Institut Esthederm
Preparing the skin
1.
Cleansing. Let's give up today expensive belongings, makeup removers and other innovations. Let's use ordinary water as a cleanser. Clean. And also soap. Children's. All. No more complications. We just wash ourselves like our grandmothers did. All that remains is to pat your face dry with a clean towel. At this point, the first stage of purification will be considered complete.
2.
Steaming. Pour the same ordinary water into the pan. Bring it to a boil and add mint, chamomile, linden, eucalyptus (a little of everything). Turn off the gas and transfer the pan to the table. We bend over the steam emanating from the broth (just not close, otherwise you can burn the skin) and sit like that for about 10 minutes. During this time, the pores will have time to expand sufficiently.
3.
Applying hot compress masks. This option will replace steaming. In some ways, it’s more convenient (you won’t have to bend over and breathe in the steam), but it will take a little longer to prepare the masks. First of all, we prepare a decoction from approximately the same composition of herbs as indicated in paragraph 2, you can add St. John's wort and calendula. These are herbs that traditional healers use for inflammation. The masks are applied for the same amount of time (ten minutes will be enough).
Features of the tool99
The Uno spoon is a cosmetology instrument that has a base holder and two tips at the edges. On one side there is a small recess with a hole in the center, and on the second there is a larger recess with several holes.
The smaller side can be used to gently squeeze out pimples, while the larger side helps get rid of blackheads* on the ears, in the T-zone, on the wings of the nose, etc. The Uno spoon can be used as an independent tool for medium or deep facial cleansing or combined with other devices (tweezers, Vidal loop, etc.).
