If you find your face marred by small, dark blemishes, you likely have a case of blackheads. This guide on how to get rid of blackheads will provide you with some strategies to prevent or rid yourself of this potentially embarrassing skin problem.

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• People of both sexes and all ages may struggle with blackheads. These small blemishes are caused when pores become blocked by a buildup of natural skin oils or dead skin. If you find you are regularly developing blackheads, it may be because you have naturally oily skin. There are several measures you can take, both to prevent blackheads, and to get rid of them after they have developed.

• The best way to combat blackheads is to take some or all of the measures below to prevent them:

1. Avoid using makeup or other skin care products that are oil-based. Look for products that are made of natural ingredients and are water-based
2. If you can, wear less makeup or use powder rather than liquid foundation
3. Drink lots of water and eat fewer oily foods
4. Wash your face twice a day using a gentle facial cleanser. Don't use bar soap on your face
5. Steam your face or place a facecloth moistened with warm water over your face for ten minutes each night
6. Wash your pillowcases regularly

(Creative Commons photo by rq?)

• There are several over-the-counter skincare products you can use that will both help prevent and reduce your blackheads:

1. Clay masks, used once a week, will help reduce the amount of oil on your face
2. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub regularly, but not to often. Follow the product instructions on how often to use it, as overdoing it may irritate and dry out the skin
3. Look for products that contain beta-hydroxy acids, which help to remove dead skin. There are several cleansers and moisturizers that contain beta-hydroxy acids

• If you find the above strategies aren't working, or if you're looking for a quick way to get rid of your blackheads, you can pop them, but pop carefully and don't use your fingernails to do so.

1. Wash your face
2. Cover your face with a warm washcloth for 10 minutes to open the pores
3. Place your two index fingers on either side of the blemish
4. Push gently in and up on the blackhead with your fingers
5. If the blackhead doesn't pop after one or two tries, leave it, or you risk bruising or further irritating your skin
6. After popping, wipe the face clean with a damp washcloth

• Although blackheads are annoying, in most cases, they are not a serious or harmful skin condition. If you find that none of the above methods are helping reduce or eliminate your blackhead problem, visit your doctor or dermatologist to discuss other options.

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