Constant skin rashes are one of the most common dermatological problems. They arise against the background of internal and external reasons, leading not only to a decrease in the attractiveness of appearance, but also to discomfort, even stress.
Among all acne, comedones are the most common - this is a type of cyst that occurs due to blockage of the hair stomata. In advanced cases, traditional medicine methods are used, and chronic mild rashes can be dealt with using home methods. In this article you will learn how to prepare and apply face masks against comedones.
What are comedones
Comedones are a special type of cyst that appears when the exiting hair follicle is blocked; a layer of horny tissue grows on top. The problem especially often occurs with hyperkeratosis, clogging of pores with impurities.
Depending on the characteristics of the formation, they can be closed (whiteheads), but open comedones, or blackheads, are more common. This specificity determines the complexity of working with the disease. Closed acne often becomes inflamed and cannot be squeezed out on your own, while open acne rarely leads to complications and is easily removed. Comedones can range in size from 1 to 3 mm, most often appearing on exposed parts of the body, face, neck and chest area.
The black color of open comedones is due to the presence of melanin pigment in the horny plug. In deeper layers it has a white or pinkish tint.
What ingredients can be used for masks?
When choosing components for creating homemade masks against comedones, it is important to consider that they have absorbent properties, narrow pores and normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands. It is best to choose ingredients that additionally nourish and dry the epidermal cells. Suitable components for masks:
- egg white;
- salicylic acid;
- Activated carbon;
- oatmeal of any grind;
- cosmetic clay;
- gelatin;
- citric acid with soda;
- rice broth.
All of the above products additionally have an anti-inflammatory effect and also have a whitening effect, which is especially important for working with problem skin types or severe pigmentation.
How effective is egg white against blackheads?
Before judging the effectiveness of egg whites, it is useful to understand what blackheads are.
About blackheads and the reasons for their appearance
When the fat secreted by the skin (sebum) mixes with dust, dirt, cosmetic residues and dead particles of the epidermis, a plug is formed that clogs the pore. As a result, we see a black dot on the skin; in medicine and cosmetology, such formations are called open comedones.
The dark shade of comedones is given not by dirt, as one might assume, but by the accumulation of a special substance - melanin.
Blackheads are usually found in the T-zone: the nose, forehead and chin, because these areas tend to produce the most sebum. The main reason for the appearance of comedones is increased sebum production, resulting from:
- health problems;
- genetic predisposition;
- poor nutrition (large amounts of fatty, salty, sweet foods in the diet);
- stress;
- improper skin care;
- use of low-quality cosmetics;
- environmental conditions.
Most often, blackheads bother those with oily or combination skin with enlarged pores.
Passion for fast food can cause excess weight, health problems and blackheads
Without eliminating the cause of comedones, it is pointless to fight them, since formations will appear again and again.
The fight against blackheads should be comprehensive: in addition to cosmetic procedures, it is important to provide the skin with proper care, review your diet, and lead an active lifestyle.
How does egg white work in the fight against comedones?
After application to the skin, the protein begins to dry, forming a film that tightens the epidermis. Due to this effect, a cleansing effect is ensured: the product “pulls out” the plug from the pores.
Additionally, protein in skin care:
- regulates the functioning of the sebaceous glands, reducing excessive sebum production;
- accelerates regeneration processes;
- tightens pores.
Table: pros and cons of the method
| Advantages | Flaws |
|
|
Protein is a natural product, and its use in the fight against blackheads can be considered a conditionally safer method than squeezing, which is fraught with scars, and steam baths, which have a large number of contraindications.
Once applied to the skin, the protein dries, forming a film that draws impurities out of the pores.
Indications for use
Anti-acne masks are not recommended if there are no problems. Due to the aggressive effects of some components, the natural process of subcutaneous sebum secretion is disrupted and water balance disturbances occur.
Main indications for use:
- comedones, pimples or blackheads without severe inflammation;
- increased fat content, greasy shine;
- excessively dry skin;
- water balance disturbances;
- minor cosmetic problems on the skin (scars or acne scars).
Before applying a homemade mask for the first time, it is advisable to consult a specialist. It is not recommended to use home methods if traditional therapy is prescribed.
Homemade acne masks can also be used to prevent comedones during remission, if the skin is prone to such rashes. In this case, the composition should be as soft as possible and have a gentle effect.
How to treat closed comedones?
Saying goodbye to closed comedones once and for all is not an easy task. Often, when such a problem arises, ladies turn to the services of beauty salons.
Cosmetologists and dermatologists usually offer comprehensive cleansing of the facial skin and removal of acne by squeezing, that is, using a mechanical method. However, such a procedure does not always make it possible to deal with them quickly and effectively, and it also carries unpleasant pain.
Before actually starting the treatment of comedones, you need to undergo a parallel consultation with several different specialists: a gastroenterologist, a dermatologist and an endocrinologist. And only after the results are received, the doctor will comment on them, establish the exact cause, and we can talk about treatment.
There is an option that the causative agent of the disease is hidden deeper than it seems. But what you see on your face is just a reaction and a message from your body in the form of whiteheads. Therefore, even if they are removed, they can form again, then all your efforts will be in vain.
Closed comedones can be treated comprehensively. This process is directly related to the use of antibiotics - medications along with cosmetic removal of acne on the surface.
In the case of treatment of comedones, you must strictly follow a hypoallergenic diet, which involves the categorical exclusion of fatty and sweet foods from your daily diet.
Once and for all, you can forget about closed comedones only if you successfully combine the treatment of internal organs and external signs in the form of pimples, blackheads, redness and other types of irritation.
In order for the skin to quickly get rid of them, it makes sense to seek the support of professionals and carry out home care procedures at the same time.
We again focus your attention on the simple fact that it is important to contact qualified specialists who will correctly diagnose, determine the causes and ultimately prescribe adequate treatment, removing acne as carefully as possible.
You will also certainly receive advice from experts on how to properly care for your skin and how to constantly maintain cleanliness and a healthy glow. In addition, you will receive important tips and recommendations on how to eat properly.
Of course, the simplest and easiest way to get rid of pore contamination is to visit a beauty salon, where an experienced cosmetologist will thoroughly and quickly cleanse your face, making it as healthy and fresh as possible.
And yet, not everyone, not always, has the opportunity and time to visit such establishments. Therefore, you can carry out the facial cleansing procedure at home, provided that the basic rules for disinfection are followed.
Recipes for the best homemade masks
All homemade masks vary in preparation. By combining various components you can achieve noticeable and lasting results. Below are the most effective anti-comedogenic formulations, preparation recipe and method of application:
Protein
The mask is recommended for those with oily skin and pronounced sebaceous shine. Egg yolk has a weak drying and whitening effect and rarely leads to allergies. Can be used at any age, starting from 15-16 years. To prepare, you need to mix 1 egg white, 1 tbsp. l. sugar and 2-3 drops of lemon juice. Apply to face for 20 minutes and then rinse with cool running water. You can learn about other protein masks in this material.
Made from oatmeal
The product is suitable for gentle peeling, and thanks to the large amount of vitamins and beneficial minerals in oatmeal, it effectively nourishes epidermal cells. With regular application, you can achieve whitening pigmentation and eliminate acne marks. Not recommended for working with excessively dry skin.
Soak 2 tbsp. l. oatmeal in the same amount of water, wait until it swells. Apply the composition to problem areas, wait 20 minutes. Carefully remove the mask with a swab soaked in warm chamomile infusion.
Kefir
Depending on the fat content of kefir, the product is suitable for any skin type; it is recommended for oily skin and the presence of age spots. Kefir nourishes and moisturizes the epidermis, relieves inflammation and soothes cells. Suitable for regular use, the component rarely causes allergies.
To create a mask, you only need kefir. Using a brush, apply a thin layer of the product to your face, wait for 15-20 minutes to dry. Then rinse with running water or fresh cucumber juice. You can find out about other kefir masks here.
Kefir mask against comedones can be used even if you are lactose intolerant. With this method of using the product, it does not enter the gastrointestinal tract, and therefore does not cause side effects.
From salt and soda
The composition effectively removes impurities and tightens pores. Salt has a weak antiseptic effect and effectively dries problem areas. This product is not recommended for dry and sensitive skin. You should not use salt without additional hydration of the cells.
To prepare the mask, you need to mix table salt and soda, 1 tsp each. to stir thoroughly. Lightly moisten the skin and apply a mild soap solution to it. Rub in the prepared soda mask, rinse off after 5-10 minutes with plenty of water. Do not allow the product to get into your eyes or mouth.
Rice
A rice mask helps relieve inflammation and soothe epidermal cells. The product has a weak whitening and regenerating effect and does not cause side effects. Recommended for the fight and prevention of acne at any age. Can be used for regular use.
To prepare the mask, pour 2 tbsp in the morning. l. rice with boiling water, leave in a dark place. Before use, knead the mixture to a paste and apply a thick layer to the face. Leave for 15-20 minutes and then rinse thoroughly with warm running water.
Gelatin film mask
Gelatin is one of the most popular products for making homemade masks. It is the most accessible source of plant collagen, which is necessary to maintain and preserve youthful skin. The mask cleanses, nourishes and relieves redness, and also has a whitening effect.
To prepare you need to pour 1 tbsp. l. warm water, add 1 tablet of crushed activated carbon. Wait until the composition swells, and then heat the gelatin in a water bath until liquid. Apply a thin layer to the entire surface of the face, wait until a film forms. Carefully remove the mask after 15 minutes, moisturize the skin with cream. You can find out about other masks made from activated carbon and gelatin by following the link.
Gelatin can be used not only as a component for creating an acne mask, but also as a binding ingredient. In addition, you can use it to make homemade gel or long-lasting cream.
With potatoes
Potatoes contain a large amount of starch, which has a complex effect on the skin. Effectively cleanses and nourishes cells, and is also suitable for combating inflammation and pigmentation. The potato mask can be used for any skin type, there are no contraindications. Recommended for regular use.
The recipe is very simple - you need to grind 1 fresh potato to a puree, add 1 tbsp. l. olive oil. Apply a thin layer to the face, remove with running water after 15 minutes.
Cucumber
A cucumber mask is suitable for regular cleansing of skin with comedones. The component has a drying effect, saturates cells with minerals and vitamins. Considered one of the most versatile types of masks, cucumber can be mixed with almost any skin-healthy product to obtain a comprehensive effect.
To relieve inflammation and cleanse cells, the following recipe is suitable. Mix 1 chopped cucumber and 2 tbsp. l. low-fat kefir, bring to a homogeneous mass. Apply to skin for 15 minutes, rinse with warm water or a cotton pad. After the procedure, it is advisable to use a moisturizer.
Clay
To eliminate pimples and acne, it is best to use black or white cosmetic clay. It effectively cleanses clogged pores, relieves inflammation and helps smooth out the consequences of the problem (scars and scars). To prepare, take 30 g of clay, melt it in a water bath, add 1 tsp. olive oil. Apply to the problem area, rinse off after 15-20 minutes, without waiting for the product to dry completely. After this, it is advisable to wipe the skin with a cotton pad soaked in chamomile decoction. You can learn more about clay masks for acne in the article.
To combat acne and comedones, masks based on blue or black clay with the addition of honey are actively used. The product can cause allergies, so before the first application it is important to check the body's reaction.
Gentle peeling for problem skin
To gently cleanse the epidermis, you can use honey with the addition of cinnamon. The product effectively relieves peeling, removes dirt accumulated in cells and promotes regeneration. With regular use, you can normalize metabolic processes and increase blood flow. To prepare the product, you need to mix 1 tbsp. l. any natural honey, add 5 g of cinnamon powder. Apply to skin with massage movements, rinse with warm water after 5 minutes.
With aspirin and honey
Acetylsalicylic acid is most often used in whitening and anti-inflammatory masks. Thanks to the addition of honey, cells are effectively cleansed and the severity and severity of acne is reduced. The product is not recommended in case of individual intolerance to the components or hypersensitivity.
To prepare, you need to crush 4 aspirin tablets, dilute them in 1 tbsp. l. cold water. Add 0.5 tsp to the resulting mass. honey Apply the composition to problem areas for 10-15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water and use a moisturizer or night cream. You can read about other masks with acetylsalicylic acid here.
From honey and soda
Baking soda, which is easy to find in any home, is a quality component for cosmetic masks. It has a cleansing effect, dries skin cells and normalizes the production of subcutaneous fat, and also has a weak disinfectant effect. Not recommended for sensitive epidermis; the composition should not be used for regular use.
Pour 1 tbsp. l. baking soda 100 ml water, stir until completely dissolved. Add 1 tsp. honey and mix the composition again. Gently apply to problem areas, leave for 10 minutes and then rinse with cold water. After the procedure, it is advisable to use a rich moisturizer.
Despite its safety for the body, overuse of soda can lead to irritation and redness of the skin. This chemical component must be used in doses, strictly following the recipe.
For acne spots
To prepare a mask for acne, use a combination of cucumber and honey. The product not only cleanses and draws out dirt from clogged pores, but also tones the skin. Not recommended if you are hypersensitive or allergic to bee products. Mix 1 tsp. fresh chopped cucumber and the same amount of honey. Soak gauze in the product and apply to problem areas for 15 minutes. After cleansing, it is advisable to additionally moisturize with cream.
Is it possible to cure comedones with special masks?
It is worth understanding that the reasons for the appearance of comedones can be different, among the most common are:
- improper skin care and neglect of hygiene rules;
- unbalanced diet and the presence of large amounts of fatty foods and sweets in the diet;
- clogged intestines and other dysfunctions of the gastrointestinal tract;
- increased testosterone levels, hormonal changes;
- endocrine diseases;
- liver diseases;
- nervous system disorders;
- taking certain medications;
- harmful effects of the environment.
In most cases, simply removing unsightly formations from the face will not solve the problem, as they will appear again. Until the cause that provokes the development of acne is eliminated. And if sometimes it’s enough just to change your skin care, sometimes you need to radically reconsider your lifestyle or even treat some systemic diseases. Therefore, if comedones are detected, the best solution would be to consult a doctor who can identify the cause of their occurrence.
However, cosmetic procedures aimed at cleansing the face of acne should also not be neglected. But they will only be beneficial in combination with other measures, which will differ in each specific case.
Special face masks are considered one of the most effective ways to eliminate comedones, and their important advantage is that they can be used at home.
Rules for applying masks
In order for masks against acne and comedones to be effective and lead to the desired lasting result, it is important not only to follow the recipe and method of application, but also to follow simple rules for use.
Always apply masks along massage lines
The main ones:
- Before the first procedure, it is important to check the skin reaction by applying a small amount of the product to the elbow area;
- Before the procedure, it is important to thoroughly cleanse the skin;
- It is also recommended to first steam the pores with a hot towel or steam;
- You should observe the regularity and frequency of applying masks, and use medications if necessary;
- adhere to the recipe, time and method of using the composition;
- You can wash off the mask with regular running water, moistened with a cotton pad or sponge.
After the procedure, it is advisable to carry out a contrast wash or wipe the skin with an ice cube, frozen decoction of mint or chamomile.
It is advisable to apply the mask in the evening. During this period, the epidermis is extremely sensitive to external influences, and if irritation occurs, the skin will have time to calm down by morning.
How it works
Egg white is a nutritious, beneficial substance for the body that has a positive effect on the functioning of internal organs. Used to treat skin imperfections, including comedones.
A protein mask has the following effect when applied to an area with blackheads:
- Regulates the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Reduces excessive sebum production by activating the metabolic process in tissues. The face attracts dirt less - a component of the pathological contents of comedones.
- Accelerates healing. Under the influence of beneficial components, the skin better resists external irritating factors and copes with the treatment of microtraumas faster. The less damage there is, the lower the risk of developing bacterial lesions.
- It tightens the pores, preventing dirt from accumulating in them, which reduces the likelihood of open comedones.
- Nourishes, moisturizes. The composition of protein masks is rich in elements that have a beneficial effect on the condition of the epidermis. Cosmetic products for reducing oily skin often dry it out, disrupting the functioning of the glands, which leads to peeling and the appearance of acne.
The protein component helps to gently cleanse pores without causing damage. The treatment mask tightens the skin, creating a vacuum effect. Dirt and sebaceous secretions come out of the pores. Closed comedones dissolve due to the acceleration of metabolic processes in cells.
Mechanical squeezing has the same effect, but injures the skin, inflammation appears after the procedure, and there is a risk of bacterial flora joining.
Treatment of comedones should be comprehensive: cleansing the skin, maintaining its condition, preventing formations. Protein mask recipes help get rid of blackheads.
Contraindications and frequency of use
Despite the relative safety of homemade masks, the number and frequency of procedures should be observed. Such products are usually used for a course of up to several weeks; acne masks can be applied no more than 1-2 times a week. If you additionally use peeling, then reduce the number of procedures by half. After completing a full cosmetic course, it is advisable to take a break of up to 2 months.
You should not use such products in the presence of severe inflammation, irritation and open wounds. Before the first use, it is important to check the skin's reaction to allergies and sensitivity to the components of the composition.
General recommendations for the use of masks against comedones
To ensure that anti-comedogenic masks used at home do not harm the health of the skin, several recommendations must be taken into account.
- Before using any mask, you should consult your doctor.
- Before using the composition on the skin of the face, it is necessary to conduct an allergy test: apply a small amount of the mask to the elbow and observe the skin reaction for 24 hours (there should be no irritation, itching, redness, burning or other negative manifestations).
- Apply the mask only with clean hands on previously cleansed skin.
- To increase effectiveness, you can steam the skin before the procedure. To do this, you need to pour 2-3 tablespoons of sage, chamomile or oak bark with a liter of hot water, boil for about five minutes, turn off the gas and, tilting your head over the steam, cover yourself with a blanket or large towel. After 5-10, the pores on the skin of the face will open as much as possible, which will allow the active substances of the mask to penetrate more deeply. This steaming requires special care: to avoid burns, do not bend too low. It should also be remembered that this method has contraindications: sensitive skin, nearby blood vessels, exacerbation of dermatological diseases, etc. You should first consult with a cosmetologist.
- The use of masks against comedones should be regular. It is advisable to carry out the procedure once a week. You can practice a course of several identical masks, or you can alternate the use of different compositions.
Results
- Comedon is a type of acne. It is a cyst that occurs against the background of blockage of the mouth of the hair follicle; it can be closed or open.
- To create homemade acne masks, pharmaceutical products and food products are used that have a cleansing, drying and anti-inflammatory effect.
- The most popular ingredients are clay, egg white, honey, gelatin, rice, potatoes, cucumber, oatmeal and kefir.
- Cosmetic procedures to combat and prevent the appearance of comedones are used in a course lasting up to a month. The optimal frequency of application is 2 times a week.
