A beauty enthusiast has taken to Reddit to share her tried-and-tested skincare routine for effectively reducing the appearance of blackheads. She emphasizes the importance of avoiding popular blackhead remedies like nose pore strips, as they can stretch pores and worsen the problem in the long run.
The Redditor’s skincare routine consists of five key steps, which she follows religiously twice a day. She advises against using pore strips, stating that they provide only temporary removal and can leave pores larger and more prone to future blackheads.
Instead, she recommends a combination of oil-based cleansing, beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) exfoliation, alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) exfoliation, clay masks, and retinol or tretinoin. Oil-based cleansers attract oil, making them effective for removing excess sebum from the skin. BHA exfoliation, in the form of salicylic acid, is oil-soluble and helps to clear clogged pores. AHA exfoliation removes dead skin cells and prevents pores from becoming clogged.
Clay masks draw out oil and can be used after BHA exfoliation to loosen blackhead filaments. Finally, retinol or tretinoin helps to regulate sebum production and increase cell turnover, keeping pores clear. Dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp supports the effectiveness of these ingredients, highlighting retinol’s ability to regulate sebum production and promote cell turnover.
The Redditor acknowledges that blackheads are a common skin concern but emphasizes that they can be managed with the right skincare approach. By following her recommended routine, individuals can effectively reduce the appearance of blackheads and achieve clearer, healthier skin.
