Does Clay Mask Help With Blackheads?
What are blackheads?
Blackheads are small, dark bumps that form on the skin when pores become clogged with excess oil and dead skin cells (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22038-blackheads). They are called blackheads because the surface of the bump looks dark due to oxidation and exposure to air.
Blackheads form when a pore becomes clogged with sebum, an oily substance secreted by oil glands in the skin. The sebum, dead skin cells, and other debris plug up the pore while continuing to produce oil. This causes the pore to swell and form a bump on the skin’s surface.
Blackheads most commonly appear on the face, especially in the oily areas of the nose, chin, and forehead. They may range in size from a pinhead to larger raised bumps. While not harmful on their own, blackheads can contribute to acne breakouts if not properly treated.
Causes of blackheads
Blackheads form when pores become clogged with excess sebum (oil) and dead skin cells. This causes the pore to dilate and turn black when exposed to air.1 There are several factors that contribute to clogged pores and blackhead formation:
Excess sebum production – The sebaceous glands in hair follicles produce an oily substance called sebum. Excessive sebum production can clog pores.2
Dead skin cells – Dead skin cells can stick together and clog pores along with sebum. This blocks the follicle and causes a blackhead.3
Clogged pores – When too much sebum and dead skin cells accumulate, they can plug the follicle. The mixture of oil and skin cells exposed to air oxidizes and turns black, resulting in a blackhead.
Hormones – Hormonal changes during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can increase sebum production and lead to clogged pores.
Genetics – Some people are genetically predisposed to produce excess sebum which makes them more prone to blackheads.
Risk factors for blackheads
There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing blackheads:
Oily skin – People with naturally oily skin tend to get more blackheads. The oil (sebum) that your skin produces can clog pores and contribute to blackheads.
Hormonal changes – Blackheads are common during puberty and pregnancy when hormone fluctuations can increase oil production. Women may also get premenstrual acne caused by hormonal changes.
Family history – Genetics can play a role. If your parents had acne or blackheads, you are more likely to develop them.
Skin irritation – Friction from clothes, backpacks, or phones can irritate skin and clog pores leading to blackheads. tight collars and headbands can also rub the skin and cause blackheads on the neck and forehead.
Hot, humid climates – Blackheads tend to be worse in hot, humid weather when you sweat more. The sweat mixes with dead skin cells and oil, clogging pores.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/blackheads-risk-factors
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320925
Preventing blackheads
There are several steps you can take to help prevent blackheads from forming in the first place:
Gentle cleansing is important. Wash your face twice a day with a mild, non-abrasive cleanser. This will help remove excess oil and dead skin cells. Be sure to rinse thoroughly. Over-washing can stimulate oil production and make matters worse. Pat dry rather than rubbing the skin.
Exfoliating can also be helpful to prevent blackhead formation. Using a scrub or chemical exfoliant that contains salicylic acid or glycolic acid can help remove dead skin cells and debris that clog pores. Exfoliate 2-3 times per week maximum to avoid irritation. Healthline recommends chemical exfoliants for acne-prone skin.
It’s important to moisturize after cleansing and exfoliating. An oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer can help hydrate skin and prevent overproduction of oil. Look for moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Avoid heavy, greasy moisturizers.
Using sunscreen daily is also key. UV exposure can worsen breakouts. A broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen or higher provides protection. Be sure to apply adequate amounts.
Eating a balanced, healthy diet supports skin health from the inside out. Fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats provide nutrients that keep skin hydrated and promote skin cell renewal. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is also beneficial.
Treating Blackheads
There are several options for treating blackheads both at home and through professional procedures. Over-the-counter products that can help treat blackheads include:
Salicylic acid cleansers – Salicylic acid breaks down keratin and unclogs pores to remove blackheads. It’s available in cleansers or toners and should be used in the morning and evening. Some popular salicylic acid cleansers include Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash, Paula’s Choice Clear Regular Strength 2% BHA Liquid, and La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser (source).
Benzoyl peroxide – Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria and also acts as a mild exfoliator. It’s available in creams, gels, washes, and lotions such as Neutrogena Clear Pore Oil-Eliminating Astringent or Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10 Acne Medication (source).
Retinoids – Retinoids like adapalene and tretinoin normalize shedding within hair follicles to prevent pore-clogging. Brands like Differin Gel and Retin-A can be used at night before moisturizer.
Prescription medications that dermatologists may recommend for stubborn blackheads include:
Topical antibiotics – Clindamycin and erythromycin can reduce bacteria on the skin and in pores. Oral antibiotics may also be prescribed for severe inflammatory acne.
Oral contraceptives – Birth control pills that contain estrogen can decrease androgen production and help treat blackheads in women.
Isotretinoin – For severe nodular acne, isotretinoin (Accutane) may be prescribed. This strong oral retinoid reduces oil production.
Professional treatments like extractions, chemical peels, and laser therapy can also help clear out blackheads. However extractions risk skin damage if not done properly, and chemical peels and lasers require trained specialists.
What is a clay mask?
A clay mask is a skin care product made from different types of clay that is applied to the face and allowed to dry before being rinsed off. Clay masks have been used for centuries for skin purification and deep cleaning (Healthline).
Clay masks typically contain bentonite or kaolin clay. Bentonite clay forms from volcanic ash sedimentation and has excellent absorption properties. Kaolin clay is white clay that is naturally found in warm, moist climates. It is the gentlest of the various clays used in masks (Dermstore).
Clay masks work by pulling out impurities from pores as the clay dries. The clay’s minerals bind to dirt, oil, and bacteria on the skin’s surface and within pores. As the mask dries and hardens, it pulls out these impurities. Clay particles also absorb excess oils and sebum production (Verywell Health).
Benefits of clay masks
Clay masks provide a range of benefits for skin health and appearance. One of the primary benefits is oil absorption. The minerals in clay have natural absorptive properties that soak up excess sebum and oil from the skin’s surface (source). By removing oil, clay masks help prevent clogged pores and breakouts.
In addition to absorbing oil, clay masks can also help deep clean pores. Clay’s adsorptive properties allow it to draw out impurities, dirt, pollution particles, and bacteria from deep within pores as it dries and lifts off the skin (source). This leaves pores looking cleaner.
Some clays like bentonite contain minerals that may also have skin-tightening and toning effects. As a clay mask dries, it can gently pull on the skin, temporarily tightening the look of pores and giving skin a firmer, smoother appearance after rinsing off the mask.
By controlling oil and cleansing the pores, clay masks can greatly improve overall skin clarity, brightness, and complexion. Less congestion in the pores allows the skin’s natural radiance to shine through.
Using Clay Masks for Blackheads
Clay masks can be an effective treatment for minimizing the appearance of blackheads when used properly. Here are some tips for using clay masks to combat blackheads:
To see the best results, use a clay mask 1-2 times per week. Applying a clay mask more frequently than this can dry out your skin. Gently spread an even layer of clay mask over clean skin, focusing on areas prone to blackheads like the nose, chin, and forehead. Let the clay mask dry for 10-15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with lukewarm water. Be careful not to let a clay mask over-dry on your skin.
When applying a clay mask, avoid the delicate skin around the eyes. As clay masks dry and harden, they can tug at the thin eye area skin. After using a clay mask, moisturize well to restore moisture to your skin.
It’s important to note that clay masks draw out impurities but don’t literally pull out blackheads. With regular use, a quality clay mask can help minimize the appearance of blackheads by deeply cleansing pores. You may begin to see results within a few uses, with more significant improvements over several weeks of use. Don’t rely solely on clay masks to remove blackheads; incorporating other treatments like chemical exfoliants may provide better results.
Clay Mask Ingredients for Blackheads
There are several key ingredients in clay masks that can help effectively treat blackheads. Some of the most important are:
Bentonite clay: This is a very absorbent clay that can draw out impurities from pores. According to a review on Byrdie, bentonite clay masks with cucumber seed extract can be great for treating blackheads.
Kaolin clay: Kaolin clay is less absorbent than bentonite, but helps cleanse the skin. It is often found in gentle clay masks appropriate for sensitive skin, as mentioned in this Absolution Cosmetics article.
Activated charcoal: Charcoal has absorbing properties to help draw out dirt and oil from clogged pores that cause blackheads. Look for masks with activated charcoal in the ingredients.
AHAs/BHAs: Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are chemical exfoliants that help dissolve dead skin cells and debris in pores. Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are examples. They may help improve the appearance of blackheads.
Homemade vs Store-Bought Clay Masks
Making your own DIY clay mask at home has some advantages compared to buying a pre-made mask according to this source. Homemade masks allow you to control the ingredients, avoid certain additives or fragrances, and customize it for your skin type. Some popular DIY clay mask recipes include:
- Bentonite clay + apple cider vinegar + water
- Bentonite clay + honey + yogurt
- Kaolin clay + oatmeal + honey
However, store-bought clay masks also have their benefits according to this video. They are convenient, pre-mixed with ingredients that work well together, and tested for quality and safety. Some top clay mask products include:
- Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay
- SheaMoisture Purification Masque
- L’Oreal Pure Clay Mask
When choosing between homemade and store-bought, consider your skin type, ingredients, and time commitment. Ultimately both can effectively draw out impurities from pores when used properly. Focus on finding a mask with clays like bentonite or kaolin plus soothing ingredients like aloe vera or honey.
