Are you considering removing blackheads with tape?
Since time immemorial, people have been looking for ways to get rid of blackheads. Several methods have been tried over the years—including squeezing, scraping, and even using toothpaste.
However, one of the most popular methods is removing blackheads with tape. The idea behind it is that the sticky part of the tape will pull out the gunk stuck in your pores, clearing out the blackheads.
But is this true? Can you remove blackheads with tape? How do you do it? In this article, I’ll discuss the answers to these questions and more.
Can you remove blackheads with tape?
Yes, you can remove blackheads with tape. But it’s not a great idea.
The problem with removing blackheads with tape is that it can irritate your skin and cause redness. In addition, it won’t remove deep-rooted oil and dirt from your skin, which can lead to more blackheads, whiteheads, and even pimples.
Finally, if you don’t remove the tape carefully, you can end up damaging the outer layer of your skin, which can lead to scarring.
How to remove blackheads with tape
If you’re still determined to remove your blackheads with tape (which I don’t recommend), I suggest using cellophane tape.
Stay away from duct tape or any other tape with strong adhesive to avoid damaging your skin.
Once you’ve gotten a cellophane tape, here are the steps to follow:
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and dry it with a clean towel (pat, don’t rub).
- Take a strip of the cellophane tape and carefully place the sticky side down on the affected area.
- Smoothen the tape with your fingers then press it down gently for about 30 seconds.
- Using your thumb and index finger, gently remove the tape from your skin.
- Wipe away any remaining debris with a tissue, then wash your face with cold water to reveal clear pores underneath.
SEE: This Is How To Remove Blackheads From Your Inner Thighs
Alternative ways to remove blackheads
Exfoliate with a face scrub
This is important for removing blackheads, as well as preventing new ones from forming. Exfoliating with a face scrub will help to remove any layers of dead skin cells that may be clogging your pores and causing blackheads.
That said, make sure you’re gentle when exfoliating your skin. It can be tempting to exfoliate aggressively, but this can cause irritation and even breakouts. Instead, take your time and use a soft touch.
Use alpha hydroxy acids
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are a popular and effective treatment for blackheads. AHAs work by dissolving the “glue” that holds dead skin cells and sebum together, which can help to open up clogged pores and release trapped dirt and oil.
There are a few different types of AHAs that you can use to treat blackheads, including glycolic acid, lactic acid, and citric acid. When using an AHA product, it is important to start slowly and gradually increase the frequency of usage as your skin adjusts.
Invest in pore strips
Pore strips are a type of facial strip designed for removing blackheads. These strips will pull out the blackheads as well as any excess oil and dirt in your pores.
To use pore strips, simply place them over the affected area and then remove them after a few minutes. Throw the used pore strips away and avoid reusing them to prevent skin infections.
SEE: How to Clear Your Pores For A Squeaky Clean, Glowing Complexion
Try a pore vacuum
A pore vacuum is a small device that uses suction to remove blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples from the skin. To use this device, all you have to do is turn it on and then slowly rub it over the affected area for a few minutes. You will notice that the blackheads are gone.
You can find pore vacuums in most skincare stores or online. They vary in price, but you can find one for around $20.
Steam your face
When you steam your face, the heat and moisture open up your pores and loosen any dirt, oil, or other impurities that may be clogging them. You can steam your face twice a week or as needed depending on how well your skin tolerates it.
SEE: Get Your Acne-Free Skin With a Facial Steamer
Use charcoal masks
Charcoal masks contain activated charcoal, which helps absorb impurities and remove them from the skin. They are often used to remove blackheads as they are very effective at clearing this type of blemish.
To use a charcoal mask, simply apply it to your face and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off. You will notice that your skin looks and feels much cleaner after using it.
Don’t like charcoal? Try clay masks
Like charcoal masks, clay masks can also help to draw out blackheads and impurities from the skin. This is thanks to the fact that clay can absorb excess oil and dirt from the skin, leaving it looking and feeling cleaner.
To use a clay mask for removing blackheads, simply apply the mask to clean, dry skin and then leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Once the time is up, rinse the mask off with warm water and follow up with your usual skincare routine.
Use salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is a type of beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps to unclog pores and remove blackheads by exfoliating the top layer of skin.
This ingredient breaks down the bonds between dead skin cells, making it easier for them to shed from the skin’s surface.
Some people may experience temporary redness or irritation when first starting a salicylic acid treatment, but these side effects usually subside with continued use.
SEE: Get a Smooth Face With These Skincare Hacks
Use a blackhead extractor tool
A blackhead extractor tool is a small, metal instrument that is used to remove blackheads from the skin. The tool has a sharp end that you can use to open up your pores and push out the contents of the blackheads.
NOTE: Blackhead extractor tools should be used with caution, as they can easily damage the skin if not used properly. You can seek professional help from a dermatologist or esthetician if you don’t know how to use this tool.
FAQs
What are blackheads?
Blackheads are small, dark bumps that form on the skin when the hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and dirt.
When the plugged follicle is exposed to oxygen, it turns black and is known as a blackhead.
Should you pull a pore strip fast or slow?
Slow. To prevent irritation and redness when removing pore strips from your skin, experts recommend pulling them slowly.
Can birth control pills cause blackheads?
Yes, they can.
Birth control pills can cause an increase in oil production, leading to the formation of blackheads. Other factors that can contribute to the formation of blackheads are cosmetics, age, and certain medications.
How can you make pores smaller?
You can make your pores smaller by cleansing and exfoliating regularly.
Cleansing and exfoliation will help remove any dirt and oil clogging up your pores and making them appear bigger.
You can also use pore-minimizing serums or creams. These skincare products contain ingredients like retinol and niacinamide that help improve the appearance of enlarged pores.
Takeaway
To sum it up, removing blackheads with tape is not advisable. The tape can cause irritation, more blackheads, and even scarring.
If you want to remove blackheads from your skin safely and effectively, you can try using any of the alternative methods mentioned above.
Thanks for reading.
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