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Miss Bodyline's advice column

How to deal with Blackheads

Though blackheads are a problem with all skin types, oily and combination skins are most susceptible to these. Blackheads are caused when sebum (the skin’s natural oil) collects and hardens in the pores. The exposed tip becomes oxidized and black, hence the name - blackheads. Here are some tips to prevent and remove these unsightly ghouls:
   Cleansing is of utmost importance. Use a cleansing lotion or milk, which is meant for oily skin. Or use a medicated soap. Avoid washing the face with soap more than twice a day.
   A mild astringent should be used to reduce oiliness. Mix some rose water in the astringent if you find it too harsh or strong.
  Use a facial scrub to keep skin pores oil free. You can mix oatmeal or rice flour with curd and use it to rub the skin gently. But, remember to wash your face well with water. For oily skin, use scrub three to four times a week.
   Never try to pinch or squeeze out blackheads, as this could lead to pimples and acne.
1. When open pores fill with sebum and are exposed to the air, the oil becomes oxidized and then turns black.
2.   Be sure to eat as healthy a diet as you can. It really is important. My son noticed that when he consumed a lot of junk food, his skin grew oilier and tons of blemishes appeared. Sorry, but it’s true.
3.   It is just as important to be sure that you are adequately cleaning your face. We need to get the dirt and oil off the face each night. But washing too often can result in the oil being replaced. Wash twice a day, but do a thorough job.
4.   Be sure to change your pillowcases every night. Oil can build up on the case and that could be ground into your skin.
5.   Extractions can be easily done by a professional. It takes mere minutes and the blackheads are gone.
6.   Be sure to spend extra cleaning time on the area that are most prone to blackheads. The nose is often forgotten and this area is often riddled with blackheads.
7.   Be sure that the towel you are using is clean. A dirty towel will simply rub dirt/oil back into your skin.
8.   Facial steamers can often loosen embedded blackheads, making removal easier.
For stubborn blackheads, visit a good beauty parlour and get them removed professionally. The beauty therapist may use steam and employ a special gadget to remove blackheads.

Until next time,
Miss Bodyline.