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blackheads and blocked pores
how to get rid of blackheads
Blackheads are caused by partially blocked pores.
The "black" appearance of them is not caused by
dirt, but by the oxidising effect of air on the sebum (oil)
in a blocked pore and the melanin pigment from the dead skin
cells.
The best way to get rid of blackheads is to remove the
cause of them — excessive sebum (oil) and dead
skin cells. Use only products made with natural ingredients
that are not too astringent. Harsh products can strip the
skin of oil, causing it to produce more sebum which leads
to more blocked pores. Don't be afraid of using cleansing
products containing natural oils, such as jojoba or coconut
oil to cleanse the skin. These oils are close to our natural
oils, so they don't block the pores. Use a gentle exfoliating
mask such as Miessence's
Gentle Exfoliant every day to remove dead skin cells so
they don't block pores. Just remember to be very gentle, over
exfoliation can exacerbate the problem. Avoid products
containing the following: alcohol, isopropyl mystate,
lanolin, sodium lauryl sulphate, sodium laureth sulphate,
propylene glycol, mineral oil and parabens.
Do not to try and extract them forcibly, either
using your fingers, fingernails or a comedone (blackhead)
remover. This can cause permanent damage to the pores and
stop them working properly for ever. You may squeeze some
of the blackhead out, but you could also force some of it
even deeper into the skin, which may lead to infection (large
spots, pimples or even cysts) or permanent damage. Touching
your skin should generally be avoided to prevent cross infection.
diet
You can help reduce the occurrence of blackheads by eating
the right kinds of foods -- this will reduce sebum production,
increase good moisture in the skin and help the production
of new skin cells. Avoid cooked carbohydrates and fats,
replace these with fresh fruits, vegetables and raw fats (avocadoes,
olives, olive oil etc). Read our article of the scientific
link between diet and acne for more information.
make up
If you do wear make up, make sure any foundations and concealers
are non-comedogenic and oil free so they won't
block pores. Try not to apply make up if your face is sweating.
Always remove your make up with a cleanser at the end
of the day. Keep all your make up brushes and sponges
clean. Wash them in mild shampoo once a month and let dry
completely before using.
reducing the appearance of blackheads, blocked pores and
open pores
The best way to reduce the appearance of blackheads
is to do the following, twice a week:
- Wash the skin using a gentle, natural exfoliating product
and pat the skin dry
- Fill a bowl/basin with boiling water, and a few drops
of
tea tree oil
- Steam your face for about 5 minutes to open the
pores and soften the skin
- Apply a clay mask, such as Miessence
Organics Purifying Mineral Mask
- These masks will attract and absorb the oil in the blocked
pore.
- Let the mask work for the allocated time (10 minutes to
an hour)
- Rinse off with warm water and pat the skin dry
- If you have scars
or red marks from previous acne, this is a good time to
apply a good scar
treatment
our products
We stock a range of masks
and scrubs for effective blackhead treatment.
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