Baking soda for blackheads is a popular method that is believed to be cheap, quick, and effective. However, this method is not as miraculous as it seems and can actually be harmful to the skin. Let's take a look at the drawbacks of using baking soda for blackheads.
Baking soda is not effective in removing blackheads
Baking soda is not an effective method for removing blackheads. Yes, this widely spread miraculous method for blackhead removal actually has poor results. Blackheads are mainly composed of oil, while baking soda is primarily composed of sodium bicarbonate. The concept of acid-base neutralization requires an attractive force between acids and bases. However, oil and water are not compatible, so there is little attraction between blackheads and baking soda water, resulting in a slow reaction and minimal effect on blackhead removal.
Baking soda can damage the skin
Baking soda not only has little effect in removing blackheads but excessive use can also damage the skin. Our skin is naturally slightly acidic, as the acidic environment created by the secretions of the skin is not conducive to the survival of bacteria and serves a protective function for the body. Baking soda, on the other hand, is a weak alkaline substance, and excessive use can disrupt the skin's natural protective barrier, leading to dehydration and dryness, as well as various skin problems.
The correct way to remove blackheads
Since baking soda is not effective in removing blackheads, what should we do to get rid of them?
Method:
1. Enhance cleanliness by using warm water facial cleansers or amino acid facial cleansers.
2. After cleansing, use other oil-control products to reduce oil secretion.
3. Regular exfoliation once a month can keep pores clear and reduce the production of blackheads.
4. Lastly, to remove blackheads, you can use blackhead extraction liquid, nose strips, and toner.
5. For stubborn blackheads, you can use a blackhead extractor. When using a blackhead extractor, first open the pores as much as possible through hot compress or steam, disinfect the blackhead extractor, and after extracting the blackhead, apply cold compress to help shrink the pores. Then allow the skin to rest.
Common misconceptions about blackhead removal
Using baking soda for blackheads is not the only misconception when it comes to blackhead removal. The following are other common misconceptions.
Using blackhead extraction liquid and acne needles to remove blackheads
Blackhead extraction liquid can make blackheads emerge, and then using acne needles to scrape them off. This method can only deal with newly formed blackheads. For stubborn blackheads, the epidermis needs to be opened before the blackheads can be squeezed out. Do not assume that the more pain when scraping with an acne needle, the cleaner it is. Feeling pain is not a normal phenomenon, and the skin is actually suffering.
Rubbing with salt to remove blackheads
Take a small spoonful of salt and mix it with a few drops of water until it becomes a thick liquid. Then massage this liquid on the nose for a while and rinse it off. This method may seem simple, but it is very difficult to control the amount of water. If too much water is added, the salt will dissolve and have no effect. If too little water is added, it will be painful to rub, and the coarse salt particles can easily scratch the skin.
Using nose strips to remove blackheads
When you first start using nose strips, seeing all the blackheads on the strip can feel satisfying. However, once you develop a habit of using nose strips, blackheads and whiteheads will keep bothering you like a nightmare. However, occasional use is still acceptable, but remember to use strong astringent toner to shrink the pores.
Squeezing blackheads with hands
When we see protruding blackheads on our nose in the mirror, we can't help but squeeze them with our hands. This is actually an unsanitary method because our hands have many bacteria, which can easily cause skin infections. Also, it is difficult to squeeze stubborn blackheads with just fingertips; you have to use nails to exert force, which can damage the skin and even leave marks.
Brushing to remove blackheads
Brushing can indeed exfoliate, but it is not very effective in removing blackheads. This is because the keratin is on the surface of the skin, while blackheads are hidden inside the pores. If too much force is applied, it can also rub off the thin layer of delicate skin.
