They’re an unattractive yet often inevitable beauty woe affecting nearly everyone.
Blackheads aren’t a pretty sight but much like any type of spot, they can be treated and often prevented too.
Blackheads are actually caused by blockage of the sebaceous glands, which are found near the surface of the skin and excrete an oily substance known as sebum.
Contrary to some beliefs, the visible blackhead isn't caused by dirt, instead it’s caused by excess oil mixing with dead skin cells and oxidising when it hits the air.
Sebaceous glands are particularly sensitive to hormonal changes within the body, which is why any hormone fluctuations can lead to an increase in the production of sebum and an increased risk of those pesky blackheads.
It’s worth bearing in mind that blackheads can also be caused by the build-up of dirt and oil on the surface of the skin from the use of excess cosmetics and moisturisers, or if the skin has not been cleaned properly.
So, what’s the best way to tackle and ultimately blitz blackheads once and for all?
Firstly, give your face a steam to open pores. This can be done simply by leaning over a bowl of hot water with a towel placed over your head for a few minutes.
For a simple home spa treatment, add a drop of an essential oil such as clary sage, eucalyptus or lavender to the water before you steam.
Otherwise, try blackhead eliminating strips which literally dislodge and extract the blackhead from your skin.
Be careful when using pore strips and definitely don't use them around your eyes or more than twice a week.