Blackheads are formed when dirt gets into the pores of the skin and forms a blackish bump. Though the most common belief is that a blackhead is a form of acne, it is actually caused by secretions of oil that are not able to escape the ducts of the sebaceous glands. This then results in a build up that leads to the formation of a blackhead.
The build up of sebum and dead cells can be controlled by washing the face regularly with cool water. A paste of yogurt and oatmeal applied to the face and rubbed off after a few minutes, helps to reduce the formation of blackheads and other forms of acne. After having washed the face, pat the skin dry so as to leave it with enough moisture content. Yogurt has anti bacterial properties that remove infection causing bacteria while the absorbent properties of oatmeal reduce the amount of oil that is present in the skin. By rubbing it off gently, the pores are cleaned and open up for undisturbed flow of oil through the ducts of the sebaceous glands. The use of honey has been highly recommended in the removal of blackheads, because it acts as a natural peel and exfoliating agent on the skin.
Aloe is known to be an effective moisturizer and the use of aloe gel is recommended to reduce inflammation caused by blackheads and acne. Besides this, it also prevents scarring of the affected area, thereby reducing blemishes. Known for its anti bacterial properties, the use of a few drops of diluted tea tree oil will help to clear the bacteria that cause the blackheads. Similarly, the citric acid present in lemon juice clears the face of dead skin and increases its elasticity when applied to the face. Be especially careful to dilute the lemon juice in milk cream or water before applying it to the face, as it could damage sensitive skin. Since it also has natural bleaching properties, the lemon juice helps to prevent scarring and will lighten the skin tone as well. Another excellent exfoliating paste could be made by mixing sun dried and powdered orange peels in water. The paste kills bacteria and cleans and refreshes the area of skin to which it is applied. It is advisable to avoid picking of the skin with the nails because the nails carry germs and bacteria that get into the skin and cause the formation of blackheads.
answered by G M