Let's face it, blackheads are the worst. These icky clogged pores show up everywhere; there's nothing I love more than trying to get rid of blackheads developing on my face.
Fortunately, we happen to know the secret to making the best DIY blackhead-removal mask in town.
There's something fundamentally satisfying about squeezing a blackhead; you feel like you're cleansing yourself of something icky.
Unfortunately, the traditional approach of trying to pop the plug out of a clogged pore actually has the opposite effect. If you do it wrong, you just end up irritating and infecting the skin, giving yourself a big old pimple to deal with later.
Fortunately, there's an easy way to get rid of unsightly blackheads that's every bit as satisfying as popping them, but much easier on the skin.
All you need is a packet of flavorless gelatin and a little bit of milk to make the best DIY blackhead-removal mask ever.
Scroll through below to learn how to pull together this simple and effective home beauty recipe to get rid of blackheads!
What Exactly Are Blackheads?
Your whole body is covered in pores, which help to nurture skin and release sweat. Pores are important, but sometimes, they get clogged with dirt or oil.
The result is a small plug that blocks up the pore. If the plug stays in place long enough, it oxidizes from exposure to the air and changes color, darkening into what we call a blackhead.
They aren't dangerous, but they are unsightly and can turn into troublesome pimples if left in place.
How Do You Get Rid Of Blackheads?
There are a handful of different ways to get rid of blackheads. Most people try to squeeze them out using their fingers, but this is can open up your skin to infection and irritation.
You can also try exfoliating your skin to scrub the plugs loose, or go to a professional for a facial that removes blackheads.
Alternatively, there are lots of pore masks that allow you to simply pull the blackheads free.
You can buy these at beauty stores, but if you're on a budget, we're going to look at how to make a DIY version!
Step #1
First, assemble the materials you will need! It's pretty simple, and you'll only require the following:
- 1 packet of unflavored gelatin
- 1/3 of a cup of milk
If you prefer not to use gelatin, you can try swapping it out for agar, but the recipe is likely to be less effective.
Step #2
Combine 1 Tbsp. of milk and 1 Tbsp. of gelatin in a microwave-safe bowl.
This should produce enough product to cover your whole T-zone (the trouble area of the nose and region above the eyebrows) but you may want to mix another batch later if you want to cover more of your skin.
Step #3
Carefully stir the gelatin powder into the milk. Eventually, a sort of chunky paste will begin to form.
It will resemble grade-school paste in art class at this juncture, but don't worry; it's not ready to go on your face just yet!
Step #4
Stick the goopy mixture in the microwave. Program the microwave for 10 seconds.
Once the 10 seconds are up, immediately stir the mixture well, then microwave anther five seconds if needed.
It should now be a clear, liquid goo. Fair warning: it might smell pretty awful!
Step #5
Next, smear the gelatinous goo onto any trouble spots.
Make sure you get a smooth layer that's visible on the skin, but not too thick. If you slather too much on, it can get globby and fall off before you're ready.
We suggest focusing on the T-zone, cheeks, and chin. You can also apply it to any other areas where you tend to develop blackheads.
Step #6
Once you have a layer of the mask covering all of your problem spots, let it dry!
Set a timer for 15 minutes. That should give the mask enough time to dry against your skin and start "grabbing" the edges of those pesky blackheads.
After 15 minutes are up, the mask should feel tight and dry on your skin; if it doesn't, let sit another five minutes.
Step #7
Last but not least comes the fun part! Carefully peel off the mask, pulling it away from your face in one piece if possible.
Move slowly, and be careful not to yank the mask off, which could hurt your skin.
Gently wash your face to remove any lingering bits of the mask, and enjoy your clean, clear skin!
If you love this simple DIY mask recipe, be sure to SHARE with everyone who loves trying new beauty regimens!
