Nature's Medley

10 Home Remedies for Blackheads

People of any age can have problems with blackheads on their skin, but most often it is an issue during the teenage and adolescent years. Blackheads commonly occur on the face, particularly the nose. They can also appear on the ears or anywhere else on the body. Two main causes of this problem are hormonal changes in the body and excessive use of cosmetic products.

There are many prescription medicines for the treatment of blackheads, but you can always try natural treatments. With simple ingredients easily found in most kitchens, you can treat your blackheads within a few days.

1. Baking Soda

Baking soda is an effective treatment for blackheads as well as acne. It helps clear the skin of impurities such as debris and dirt.

Mix two teaspoons of baking soda with mineral water to make a paste. Apply the paste generously on the affected skin area and massage gently. Allow it to dry for a few minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Repeat this remedy once or twice a week.

2. Cinnamon

Cinnamon can be used to remove and prevent blackheads

Mix one teaspoon of cinnamon powder and honey to form a thick paste. Apply the paste on the affected area before bed and leave it on overnight. In the morning, wash your face well with normal water. For best results, follow this remedy daily for about 10 days. You can also mix one teaspoon each of cinnamon powder and lime juice with a pinch of turmeric powder (optional). Use this as a facial cleanser.

3. Oatmeal

The combination of oatmeal and yogurt is great for keeping your skin free of blackheads.

Mix one teaspoon honey and the juice of four tomatoes in sufficient oatmeal to make a paste. Scrub it on your skin. Wash it off after 10 minutes. Repeat regularly for clear skin.

You can also make a paste by mixing together two tablespoons of oatmeal, three tablespoons of plain yogurt, and small amounts of lemon juice and olive  oil. Apply the paste to your entire face, leave for a few minutes and then rinse your face with water.

4. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice, also used in acne treatment, can help remove blackheads. The nutrients and vitamins present in lemon juice are good for all skin types.

Make a facial scrub by mixing lemon juice with salt, yogurt and honey. Gently scrub the affected area with this natural exfoliating mixture. You can also mix fresh lemon juice with milk or rosewater to create a facial cleanser. Use it daily for 10 to 12 days.

5. Green Tea

Green tea can also be used to treat blackheads.

 Mix one teaspoon of dry green tea leaves with a little water to make a paste.  Gently scrub the paste over the affected area for two to three minutes. This scrub deep cleans oily skin and helps unclog pores.  Rinse it off with lukewarm water.

6. Honey

The balancing quality present in honey is good for both oily skin and blackheads. Honey hydrates as well as tightens the skin pores, giving you a clear     complexion.

Apply some pure honey on your face. Leave it on for about 10 minutes. Rinse your face with lukewarm water.

7. Turmeric

Turmeric, which works well for minor burns, can also be used to treat blackheads.

Mix some turmeric powder with two tablespoons of mint juice. Apply it to the affected areas. Allow it to dry for a few minutes and then wash the area with lukewarm water. You can also make a thick paste by mixing red sandalwood, turmeric powder and milk together. Apply it on the affected area and after 10 minutes wash the skin with water.

8. Epsom Salt

Another effective and natural way to treat blackheads is Epsom salt.

Mix one teaspoon of Epsom salt and a few drops of iodine in a little hot water until the salt dissolves completely. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. Use a cotton ball to apply to the mixture on the affected area. Allow the mixture to dry. Use a clean washcloth to gently wash it off.

9. Cornmeal

Cornmeal acts as an abrasive to clean out dirt blocking the pores in your skin.

Mix one tablespoon of powdered cornmeal with some of your regular facial cleanser. Before applying the mixture, use steam to help open the pores on your face. Then apply the mixture and gently massage it in a circular motion. Concentrate on the most affected areas. After a few minutes, rinse your face with cold water. This will help close the pores.

10. Fenugreek

One of the easiest and simplest natural remedies for blackheads is fenugreek.

Make a thick paste by mixing fresh fenugreek leaves with a little water. Apply it on the affected area and allow it to dry for about 10 minutes. Rinse it off with lukewarm water. Use this remedy daily.

These remedies have helped many people eliminate blackheads. Most need to be used regularly for long-term results. If they do not work for you, you may want to consult a dermatologist.