What are those notorious black dots? In fact, they are the pores that healthy skin cannot do without. Ideally the pores should be small and dispelling any excess sebum, as the pores clogged with dust particles and dead epithelium become an unpresentable sight.
Normally, sebum is constantly released and washed off the face during cleansing. With insufficient cleansing, some of the sebum remains in the pores, clogging them. Organic substances accumulated in the pores are oxidized in air and become black. This is how blackheads (comedones) appear.
The main reasons for the appearance of blackheads.
Improper skin cleansing
If you use products containing alcohol and antibacterial substances, then we must bear in mind that they cleanse the skin aggressively, completely degreasing it, and as a result of which we have the following problems:
- along with pathogenic microorganisms, useful ones are destroyed, which leads to a decrease in the protective functions of the skin.
- overdrying the upper layers of the epidermis leads to a decrease in pore size, and, with insufficient cleansing, sebum remains inside which leads to the growth of bacteria and inflammation.
Insufficient skin cleansing
In this scenario, a similar problem occurs. Some pathogenic microorganisms remain inside the skin and begin to actively multiply in the blocked sebum. Most foundations are considered non-comedogenic, but regular use can cause a deterioration in the epidermis. If it is not enough to cleanse the skin, the oils and pigments from these products penetrate deep into the pores, contributing to their clogging.
Ignoring skin hydration
The active use of products aimed at eliminating sebum means that the skin begins to vigorously evaporate moisture. The tops of the fat plugs in the pores harden and form blackheads.
Hormonal changes
Changes in hormones can result in excess sebum being produced. Pathogenic bacteria enters the pores, and an inflammatory process begins, which leads to the appearance of acne. This can happen in adolescence, as a result of taking hormonal contraceptives, or during any period of hormonal changes in the body.
Chronic diseases
Disorders in the gastrointestinal tract negatively affect the condition of the skin. Due to improper metabolism, carcinogens enter the body, which the body tries to get rid of, including through the skin. In this case, the face begins to become covered with blackheads.
Bad habits
Alcohol and smoking have a negative effect on the skin. Nicotine and tar impair capillary blood flow in the skin, causing dryness, the appearance of early wrinkles and a slowdown in natural metabolic processes. As a result of insufficient skin nutrition, blackheads may appear.
Tactile impact
Blackheads and inflammations are much more proliferant in those people who often touch their face, thereby introducing harmful bacteria into the skin.
How do you deal with these nasty blackheads?
We will not consider cosmetic procedures that can be obtained in the beautician’s office (peelings, mechanical and hardware cleaning, and others). Instead we will take a look at what can help solve this problem at home.
Essential oils can be of great benefit. The most effective are eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, lemongrass oil, and lemon oil.
Eucalyptus oil – acts as an antiseptic, as well as an anti-inflammatory and regenerative agent. It improves the regeneration of the epidermis, soothes the skin, relieves skin inflammation, blackheads and enlarged pores. It works well with grape seed oil and argan oil
Tea tree oil – is an excellent antiseptic. Heals wounds, tones, dries, reduces an oily sheen and blackheads, tightens pores. It is very rich in antioxidants. Used exclusively for topical use. Works great when blended with argan oil to help reduce the amount of sebum in oily skin. These oils complement each other perfectly in the fight against acne and blackheads, reducing inflammation and pores.
Lemongrass oil – has antimicrobial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, healing effect. It is very effective in treating oily and problem skin. Cleanses pores, helps with blackheads. It is recommended to dab it onto the specific affected area in the case of acne and various inflammatory problems.
Lemon oil – dries acne and closed blackheads, relieves blackheads, tightens pores. Removes dead skin cells, improves complexion. This agent is aggressive, it can provoke peeling.
It should be borne in mind that essential oils are not used in their pure form, they must be mixed with natural base oils.
The following natural oils are ideal base oils for solving blackhead problems:
- Jojoba oil – soothes, softens, provides an antibacterial effect.
- Argan oil – reduces sebum, soothes and smooths the skin.
- Grape Seed oil – moisturises, tightens pores
Attention: Only apply oils to cleansed skin.
We hope that our tips for using oils will help you to rid your face of the scourge of blackheads.
