Blackheads on the nose are a common problem that many of us undoubtedly dislike. These tiny dark spots form when pores become clogged with sebum buildup and dead skin cells, resulting in an unattractive appearance.
Maintaining clean, healthy skin not only improves your aesthetics, but is also essential for preventing more serious skin problems.
In this article, we will present various techniques and tips to effectively remove those pesky blackheads, helping you achieve a more radiant and blemish-free skin.
Why do blackheads appear?
Open comedones, as blackheads are also known, are a form of acne that occurs due to the accumulation of oil, dirt and dead skin cells in the pores of the skin.
- Excess oil in the skin. The sebaceous glands produce sebum, which is an oily substance that helps keep the skin moisturized. However, when there is excess oil production, it can contribute to clogged pores, which promotes the formation of blackheads.
- Pores clogged by dirt and dead skin cells. Throughout the day, the skin accumulates dirt, environmental particles, makeup and dead skin cells. If this debris is not properly removed, it can clog pores and lead to blackheads. When the contents of the pore are exposed to air, they oxidize and turn dark, hence the name.
- Hormonal and environmental factors. Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during puberty, the menstrual cycle or stress, can increase sebum production and contribute to the formation of blackheads. In addition, environmental factors such as pollution, humidity or the use of unsuitable cosmetic products can aggravate the situation and promote clogged pores.
How to eliminate blackheads?
The face is our calling card, so it is important to maintain good cleansing habits in order to prevent and eliminate open blackheads. Here are some easy ways to get rid of these blackheads:
Daily cleansing
Keeping skin clean helps prevent the buildup of sebum and dirt, which can clog pores and cause blackheads. Proper cleansing helps remove impurities and keep skin fresh.
Specific cleansers recommended. Use gentle but effective cleansers containing ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which help unclog pores and control excess oil.
Exfoliation
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, which prevents clogged pores. It can be done physically (with scrubs) or chemically (with acids).
Recommended products for exfoliation. Look for scrubs that contain alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHA), because they are effective in treating and preventing blackheads. Scrubs with fine particles can also be used for physical exfoliation.
Masks
Clay masks are excellent for absorbing excess oil and deep cleansing pores. Activated charcoal masks are also effective, removing impurities and detoxifying the skin.
- Instructions on how to apply. Apply the mask to clean, dry skin, avoiding the eye area. Leave on for the recommended time (usually 10-15 minutes) and rinse with lukewarm water. It is recommended to use 1-2 times per week.
- Blackhead strips. They can help to physically remove them. Apply them to the affected area and remove as instructed. This is especially helpful if the spots are on the nose.
Professional treatments
Professionally performed facial treatments can include manual removal of blackheads, which is effective in removing them safely and minimizing the risk of scarring.
There are laser treatments and chemical peels that help to deeply exfoliate the skin and reduce the appearance of pores. These should be performed by board-certified dermatologists or estheticians and can offer long-lasting results in reducing blackheads.
Tips to prevent blackheads on the nose
Prevention is always better than treatment. Fortunately, blackheads can be easily prevented. All you have to do is incorporate some changes in your hygiene and personal care habits. Pay attention to the following tips:
- Regular Cleansing. Cleanse your face at least twice a day with a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type.
- Exfoliation. Exfoliate your skin once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores.
- Masks. Use clay or activated charcoal masks to help absorb excess oil and clean pores.
- Moisturizing. Be sure to use an appropriate moisturizer even if you have oily skin, as dehydrated skin can produce more oil.
- Balanced diet. Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and water. Avoiding excess sugars and fats can help keep skin healthy.
- Don’t wear heavy makeup. If you do wear makeup, opt for light, non-comedogenic products, and make sure you remove makeup properly before going to bed.
In general, with this care you can prevent the appearance of new blackheads. However, if, despite this, their appearance persists, it may be useful to consult a dermatologist for personalized recommendations and specific treatments.
Bibliography
Characterization of the population with obstruction of facial pores who underwent laser therapy at the Dermatology Unit UNIMEL. http://www.scielo.org.bo/pdf/vrs/v3n9/v3n9_a03.pdf
Diez de Medina, Juan Carlos (2009). Rational management of acne. Revista de la Sociedad Boliviana de Pediatría, 48(1), 24-30. Retrieved August 12, 2024, from http://www.scielo.org.bo/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1024-06752009000100007&lng=es&tlng=es.
Acne. https://www.niams.nih.gov/es/informacion-de-salud/acne