6 Make Your Own Blackhead Cleansers Using Natural Ingredients
Blackheads, technically known as open comedones, are pores that become filled with sebum (an oily substance), dead skin cells, and other impurities. Exposure to air oxidizes this mix, giving it a black appearance. Thankfully, natural remedies using natural ingredients can be effective in both preventing and treating blackheads.
Why Natural Remedies?
Using natural remedies for blackhead removal can be gentler on the skin compared to chemical treatments. Many store-bought blackhead treatments contain strong acids and other chemicals that might irritate the skin, especially for those with sensitive skin. Natural remedies can offer effective solutions without the risk of harsh chemical exposure.
Common Natural Blackhead Remedies:
1. Baking Soda
Baking Soda acts as a natural exfoliant to unclog pores and remove dead skin cells. When mixed with water, it forms a paste that can scrub away impurities.
How to Use: Mix equal parts of baking soda and water to create a paste. Apply to the affected area, massage gently for 1-2 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
Precautions: Baking soda can be drying and can disrupt the skin’s pH balance. It’s essential not to overuse it and always follow with a moisturizer. You may also want to try this skin cleansing recipe that uses baking soda and coconut oil to counter the drying effects of baking soda.
2. Honey
Honey has natural antibacterial and antiseptic properties that can help reduce blackheads and prevent future breakouts. It’s also hydrating, which prevents the skin from overproducing oil.
How to Use: Apply raw honey to the affected area, allowing it to sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse. For an enhanced effect, combine honey with lemon juice or cinnamon.
Precautions: Ensure you’re using raw, unprocessed honey to get the full benefits.
3. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) which can help exfoliate the skin, brighten any dark marks left by previous breakouts and reduce the appearance of blackheads.
How to Use: Apply freshly squeezed lemon juice to the affected area using a cotton ball. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then rinse off.
To enjoy the benefits of both honey and lemon juice, check out the honey and lemon natural skin cleanser recipe here.
Precautions: Lemon juice can be drying and can make skin sensitive to the sun, so always apply sunscreen afterward.
4. Green Tea
Green tea has antioxidant properties that can help clear sebum from pores and reduce skin inflammation.
How to Use: Brew a green tea bag, cool it, then open it and mix the tea leaves with a little water to create a paste. Apply to the affected area, let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse.
Precautions: None. Green tea is typically gentle on the skin.
5. Aloe Vera
Known for its skin-soothing properties, aloe vera is calming and can help cleanse pores and provide relief from inflammation.
How to Use: Extract the gel from a fresh aloe vera leaf. Apply the gel directly to the blackheads, let it sit for about 10 minutes, then rinse off.
Precautions: While rare, some people can be allergic to aloe vera. Always do a patch test first. If you get the “all clear” then proceed with the cleansing treatment. It is also worth considering the combined powers of both aloe vera and cucumber in this recipe. It is not only great as a blackhead remover, but with the added moisturising goodness from cucumber.
6. Egg Whites
When applied as a mask, egg whites can tighten pores and pull out the dirt trapped inside as well as absorb excess sebum.
How to Use: Whisk an egg white until frothy, then apply it as a mask to your face. Once dry, apply a second layer. Let the mask dry completely, then rinse off.
Precautions: Ensure the egg is fresh to prevent any potential bacterial contamination. Feel free to give this a miss if you don’t feel comfortable with animal ‘product’ on your skin.
Steps for Using Natural Ingredients to Remove Blackheads:
- Cleanse: Always start by cleansing the face with a mild cleanser to remove any surface dirt and oils.
- Steam: Consider using steam to open up the pores. This makes it easier for the natural remedies to work. Drape a towel over your head and lean over a pot of hot water, allowing the steam to contact your face for about 10 minutes.
- Apply the Natural Ingredient: Using your fingers or a soft brush, apply the chosen remedy on to the affected areas. Follow the specific application instructions for each remedy.
- Rinse: After letting the remedy sit for the recommended time, gently rinse off with lukewarm water.
- Tone and Moisturize: Finish the treatment by applying a gentle toner, like rose water, to tighten the pores. Then, moisturize to keep the skin hydrated.
Precautions and Considerations:
Patch Test: Even natural remedies can cause skin reactions. It’s always a good idea to do a patch test on a small section of your skin before applying the remedy to your face.
Avoid Over-exfoliation: Some natural ingredients like baking soda and lemon juice can be abrasive. Using them too frequently can damage the skin’s natural barrier.
Sun Sensitivity: Ingredients like lemon juice can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Always use sunscreen to protect your skin if you’re using such ingredients.
Conclusion
Natural remedies offer a gentler approach to blackhead removal. However, it is essential to approach them with the understanding that everyone’s skin is different. What works for one person might not work for another. We always recommend that you introduce one new treatment at a time. That way, you can observe how your skin reacts and adjust accordingly. By understanding the properties of each ingredient and following a routine, you can maintain clear skin without resorting to harsh chemicals. Always remember to listen to your skin, understanding its needs, and adjusting your routine accordingly. Finally, remember to moisturise after your gentle cleansing routine.
