5 Natural Ways to Get Rid of Blackheads

Blackheads are one of the most frustrating skin care concerns in the known universe. But what are they exactly? Technically known as comedones, true blackheads are plugs of keratin taking up unwelcome residence in our follicles. They poke out into the air so that their exposed parts become oxidized and darkened. Hence, blackheads.

So how do we get rid of blackheads? Keep reading to find out!

All the 411 on Blackheads

Sometimes the clogged pores on our noses and cheeks that look like blackheads aren't actually blackheads at all, did you know? A lot of times the people who complain about blackheads don't really have them. They have sebaceous filaments—retained oil and debris in the follicles that make their pores more prominent—but not keratin plugs.

For real-deal blackheads, glycolic acid peels and benzoyl peroxide washes work to chemically break down those pesky keratin plugs. But over the years, we've discovered that there are other, weirder ingredients that work too. If you're dealing with blackheads, you know full well that you'll try anything short of ruining your skin to get rid of them, right?

Keep scrolling for seven unexpected ways to do just that!

1. Lemon and Raw Honey

A potent but all-natural blackhead buster can be created with nothing but a spoonful of raw honey and lemon. Raw, unpurified honey contains enzymes, antioxidants, and is antibacterial, while lemon works as an exfoliant. (We recommend manuka honey as it has more antibacterial and peroxide components than any other kind of honey!) Simply mix a pinch of juice from a fresh lemon with raw honey and apply it to your blackhead area, let it sit for 15 minutes, and rinse with warm water. Over time, this combination can reduce the amount of oil and debris that clogs pores, decrease bacterial load, and, thus, decrease blackheads!

2. Milk and Gelatin

This home remedy is done by mixing a tablespoon of unflavored gelatin powder with a tablespoon and a half cup of milk. By heating it in the microwave for 10 seconds it will create a sticky solution capable of unclogging your pores. Just apply the mix to the affected area, leave it on until it dries (which should take 30 minutes or so), then peel it off. The gunk from your pores should come along with it.

3. Activated Carbon Mask

If you're looking to violently rip the blackheads from the depths of your face, look no further than this intense three-step Japanese mask set that you can find on Amazon. Start by washing your face with warm water and the included deep sebum softener. Then, while your face is still wet, apply a thick coat of the jet-black activated carbon mask to your skin. After it dries (which can take up to an hour), peel it off and expect to see a ton of schmutz come out. Last, apply the toner to close up your pores. 

4. Silver Powder

Those who deal with blackheads swear by this seldom-discussed powder, which makes use of three natural minerals—kaolin, calcium carbonate, and zinc oxide—to draw out blackheads. The product works by mixing with water to create a paste, which you then apply to your blackheads, wait 10 minutes, and then rinse. 

5. Manuka Honey Skin Care

When all else fails, maintaining a regular skin care routine with the right products to keep blackheads from coming back is key. At Wild Naturals, we utilize the intense and potent benefits from manuka honey in every product! This natural ingredient is known for treating acne, even from helping to reduce acne scarring and actively reducing zits, pimples, and cysts! Check out our online store for the full regimen to help get rid of blackheads once and for all.