Blackheads are one of the most common forms of acne.
Although people with an oily skin type are more vulnerable to blackheads, anyone can get them. They appear when pores become clogged from dead skin cells and excess oil from your sebaceous glands.
Unlike whiteheads, which create closed pores, blackheads have open surfaces. This creates an oxidation that is dark in color.
Gently exfoliate with AHAs and BHAs
There are two types of chemical exfoliants: AHA, or alpha-hydroxy acids, and BHA, beta-hydroxy acids.
The two most popular AHA’s are glycolic and lactic acids.
In cosmetics, BHA refers to salicylic acid.
Benefits:
-Removes dead skin cells
-Encourages healthy skin cell formation
-Stimulates collagen & elastin production
-Improves skin texture & appearance
-Reduces pigmentation & age spots
Apply your chemical exfoliant onto your skin, then rinse it off. You do not need to scrub to enjoy the benefits. Repeat twice a week for a clearer skin!
Use a facial brush
A facial brush can provide similar exfoliating benefits as AHAs and BHAs by removing excess dead skin cells.
Dampen brush and dispense 0.50ml (2 pumps) of cleanser onto bristle surface.
Move brush over face in circular motions, including firmly closed eyes.
Rinse face thoroughly.
Wash remaining product from brush, remove excess water and leave out to dry.
Wash your brush after each use.
The ASI team top tips:
-Use your brush in the shower for a quick but deep and effective cleanse
-Rinse your brush after use and leave it to air-dry naturally. Avoid leaving it in a humid environment.
-Don’t share your Facial Cleansing Brush! Think of all the dirt, oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria you clean off your face on a daily basis.
-We would recommend changing your brush every 6 months.
Use a retinol based serum
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that prevents the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, helps to lighten areas thanks to its cellular turnover properties.
-Vitamin A helps to regulate and slow oil flow and reduces the amount of oil your skin produces
-Vitamin A is an effective treatment for acne because of their ability to regenerate and heal the skin rapidly
-Helps to prevent dead skin cells from sloughing off and clogging pores
Use a clay mask
Clay masks are often considered must-haves for oily skin. They work by retrieving dirt, oil, and other elements deep from your pores. As far as blackheads are concerned, clay masks can even loosen and remove clogged pores.
Formulated to purify, heal, hydrate and enhance skin clarity.
Use twice a week after exfoliation or when required. Apply 5.0ml (10 pumps) to face, neck and decolletage. Leave on skin for 10-15 minutes and then thoroughly remove with water.
Top Tips - Perfect for oily skin types! If you have oily skin you can sleep in this mask overnight!
No matter which mask you choose, you can use it once a week in addition to your once- or twice-weekly exfoliating treatment.
Avoid pore strips
One side of every pore strip is coated with an adhesive that sticks to your skin and attaches to the debris within pores. Nose strips get rid of only the top black layer, but the rest of the blackhead still remains in the pore, so you're actually not truly cleaning the pore.
Pulling this off your skin can leave the complexion looking flaky, red and inflamed.