Blackheads can be extremely annoying and are difficult to treat. Squeezing blackheads is a good first step to get rid of them, but you need to learn how to pop a blackhead properly. While popping blackheads is only a temporary solution, it really plays a big role in correcting the problem. Once they are no longer there, you can make changes to your lifestyle and take steps to keep those pores from clogging up again. 

Should You Squeeze All Blackheads?

The best thing is to aim for blackheads that are old and look extremely black. Squeezing those blackheads will clear the pores, and even if they fill up again, you will be in a better position to treat those soft plugs. It is important that you do not squeeze all blackheads because popping those small ones will cause damage to the surrounding skin.

How to Pop Blackheads Properly

Be sure to know which blackheads will respond well to squeezing before using the following steps. The following method applies to blackheads on chins, on face and side of nose, etc.

• Use a mild cleanser first to clean your skin.
• Do a steam treatment if you want to soften the plug. Just hold your head over a large bowl of hot water. The ones that are ready to be popped out will be more visible after the steam.
• Get a couple of tissues and wrap them around each index finger to prevent infection from bacteria on your fingers.
• Place your fingers around the targeted blackhead and push down gently. Apply more pressure and squeeze while moving your fingers up a bit. This mimics the force of rolling up the blackheads from underneath the skin.
• After applying some pressure, move your fingers up slowly while keeping them around the targeted area.

Notes:

Use another tissue to clean the area if a blackhead is partially out. Stay away from applying too much pressure. If a blackhead is ready to come out, it will not require a lot of squeezing. If it’s not ready, then just leave it there.

Use a Blackhead Extractor

Nose blackheads can be extremely stubborn, and if you do not know how to pop blackheads, you will have a hard time getting rid of those on your nose.

It can be a bit tricky to get rid of nose blackheads, so some of you may want to use a blackhead extractor tool for the task. These small stainless steel tools help you put targeted pressure around your blackheads to extract them. You can use these tools to get rid of the whole plug, but sometimes, you may have to finish the task by doing a light squeeze with your fingers. It is worth mentioning that you can use a blackhead removal tool on your own, but this can cause damage if you do not know how to use it properly. Getting a professional facial will prevent these issues. They will also help you identify the best facial as per your skin type.

Use Pore Strips

What's more, you can also use pore cleansing strips after you understand how to pop blackheads and complete the task properly. These cotton strips have ultra-sticky solution on one side that dries to your face and get blackheads out when you remove these strips after 15 minutes or so. Be sure to apply a facemask and use skin are routines mentioned below to protect your skin from any further damage.

Here's a video demonstration：

What to Do After You Pop Blackheads

Once you know how to pop blackheads, you will find it simple to extract them. However, you should not leave those pores open or else an infection may occur. Take the following steps to keep your skin healthy after removing those stubborn blackheads.

• Apply a tone on a cotton pad and dab this over the affected area.
• Use a clay mask to refine pores and reduce inflammation.
• A splash of cold water will also help relieve the inflammation.
• A consistent application of salicylic acid will also help minimize pores.

Use Homemade Remedies to Pop Blackheads

In addition, you can also prepare a facial mask at home to learn how to pop blackheads. Here are some options for you to try:

• Crack an egg and place the white in a small bowl. Use a fork to blend it until it becomes frothy. Apply it directly on your nose and leave for about 20 minutes. Wash it off with warm water.
• Put an egg white into a bowl and add a tablespoon of cornmeal to it with a splash of warm water. Stir it well and then apply it on your nose. Be sure to massage it gently. Rinse it with a warm washcloth after ten minutes.
• Add a tablespoon of baking soda to a teaspoon of warm water and massage it onto your nose. Rinse with warm water after 20 minutes. This will help exfoliate the skin and make the ones that are ready to pop out.
• Add some apple cider vinegar to a tablespoon of powdered clay to make a paste. Spread it over your face, not just on affected pores. Rinse it off with warm water after 10-15 minutes.
• Add half teaspoon of lemon juice to a tablespoon of baking soda and 3 teaspoons of pure water. Mix it well until you get a paste. Use your fingers to slather it onto your face. Rinse it off with lukewarm water after a couple of minutes. Finish this routine with a splash of cold water to close your pores.

Here's how to make homemade nose strips with egg white to get rid of blackheads: