Blackheads & pores

[lisa425]

I suffer from having big pores and TONS and TONS of blackheads on my chin and on my nose. 

I have recently bought the Pure Body Nature Dead Sea Mud Mask https://www.amazon.com/Pure-Body-Naturals-Beauty-Treatment/dp/B00XTAFYKY/ref=sr_1_3?s=beauty&ie=UTF8...

and I have been using this once a week, but I haven't been able to see any results. 

I have also tried using the origin charcoal face mask, but none gave me visible results. After using these products I could see the white specks appearing in the surface, but its not been getting them out.

I stopped using pore strips since it was harsh on my skin & although it did pull out all my black/white heads, it left my skin red and sensitive. 

Any affordable products (could be Amazon based or Sephora) anyone recommend? 

Thanks!

[greeneyedgirl107]

@lisa425 I struggled with blackheads for a while, and finally have them under control (not perfect).  I applied advice from Paula Begoun's "Beauty Bible" and it made all the difference.

Cleanser: Use only liquid cleanser (and nothing with citrus or menthol or even the liquid Neutrogena that is orange).  My favorite is Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser

Mechanical Exfoliation: Neutrogena makes a lot of gentle ones, just be cautious as above.  My favorite, though, is Philosophy Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash b/c it's gritty.  (Do not use it as a cleanser, b/c it doesn't clean well; I recommend using it before a liquid cleanser.  Also, it doesn't work well on skin that is oily, make sure your skin isn't too greasy at the particular time you wash it.  Use on damp skin - not super wet skin; this gives better abrasion.)

Chemical exfoliation: BHA is essential.  Paula's Choice is the only brand that makes BHA with the right concentration and pH.  I use the 9%.  They also have 1% and 2%; I prefer the gel version.

Prescription: Retin-A (generic Tretinoin)

Oil control: Oil blotting sheets; Target makes inexpensive ones that work wonder.

Extraction: Pore strips are very harsh, so I don't recommend them.  You could try am extraction tool, but use it sparingly b/c they can cause damage.  Tweezerman is a good brand.  Honestly, I just use my fingers on the most obvious blackheads.

Good luck!

[greenchilli]

@lisa425

Products often are preventative measures, or for maintenance (keeping pores clean etc).  Especially for blackheads, you need something different first to start from a clean base.

Also, clay masks are a hit or miss.  Some are better than others in keeping cranky skin calm, others are just drying and pointless.  You are wise not to use pore strips.

Here is my recommendation.

1. Get a good facial with extractions.  There is no beating around the bush, I really think this is most helpful to clear out the current skin.

2.  Incorporate acid exfoliation into your routine.  FAB Radiance pads are a good start.  Use it twice a week to begin with, and you can ramp up to almost nightly after a while (if your skin tolerates it).  This will keep your pores clean and remove build up of dead cells.

3.  Make sure you are cleansing well!  If you wear makeup and/or sunscreen, use cleansing balms or oils to take it all off.  Inadequate cleansing is a prime reason for breakouts and clogged pores.  Farmacy Green clean, Clinique Take the Day off balm - they are nice balms.  

4. Keep your skin well hydrated.  Don't shy away from creams or oils - test them out.  Hydrated skin is stronger skin.

[lisa425]

Thank you! 

I was wondering any recommendations on a good facial with extractions?

[greenchilli]

@lisa425

You would need to find a good facialist/aesthetician in your area.  Read reviews online, ask friends, ask your dermatologist.

Read the description of the facial, it will tell you if it includes extractions.

There are good and not good facialists, like any other profession. Some assume that caressing your face with useless potions is a facial.  It isn't.

Find a good one.