How to remove blackheads: Clear pores, smooth skin

Blackheads can be incredibly stubborn. They sit quietly in your pores, refusing to budge—especially around the nose and chin. But here’s the good news: with the right routine and gentle techniques, you can clear them naturally and keep your skin feeling smooth and fresh.

This guide will show you exactly how to remove blackheads safely, including natural remedies, the best ways to clean your pores, and one powerful tool that often gets overlooked: the water you wash your face with.

What are blackheads?

Blackheads are a type of non-inflammatory acne. They form when your pores become clogged with sebum (oil), dead skin cells, and environmental debris. Unlike whiteheads, they stay open at the surface and oxidise, which gives them their dark colour.

They often appear:

• On the nose

• Chin and cheeks

• Forehead

• Back and shoulders

Now let’s talk about how to get rid of them (without damaging your skin).

How do you remove blackheads easily?

If you're tempted to squeeze them—hold up. While satisfying, popping blackheads can stretch pores and damage your skin barrier. Here's how to remove them gently:

1. Start with steam or a warm cloth

Heat opens up your pores and softens sebum.

• Use a facial steamer, or

• Soak a clean towel in warm water and place it over your face for 5 minutes

2. Cleanse with filtered water

Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser, then rinse with filtered water. Tap water can contain harsh chemicals like chlorine and microplastics, which irritate your skin and block pores.

Tip: Installing a Lushi Filter on your tap reduces exposure to these contaminants, protecting your skin barrier and keeping your pores cleaner.

3. Exfoliate (but not too much)

Use a chemical exfoliant like:

• Salicylic acid (BHA): penetrates pores and dissolves oil buildup

• Lactic acid: hydrates while removing dead skin

Avoid scrubs with harsh granules—they can cause microtears.

4. Use a clay mask 1–2x a week

Kaolin or bentonite clay helps draw out impurities, reduce oil, and tighten pores.

5. Try a pore strip (occasionally)

Pore strips work best after steaming. Don’t overuse them—they can strip your skin’s protective oils and make pores more visible over time.

How do you clear blackheads naturally?

Want to avoid harsh chemicals or prescription treatments? These natural remedies can help:

• Honey and cinnamon mask: Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory

• Green tea toner: Full of antioxidants and soothing for oily skin

• Aloe vera gel: Calms irritation and hydrates without clogging

Combine these with filtered water rinsing to reduce irritation and improve results.

How to clean a nose full of blackheads?

This is a common trouble spot. Here’s your mini-routine for nose blackheads:

• Gently steam your face

• Cleanse with filtered water and a gentle exfoliant

• Apply a clay mask just to your nose area

• Rinse with Lushi Filter water to avoid residue from harsh tap water

• Pat dry with a clean towel

• Apply a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser

Repeat this 2–3 times per week for best results.

How do I clean my pores?

Pore health = skin health. To keep pores clear:

• Cleanse morning and night

• Exfoliate regularly (chemical exfoliants, not harsh scrubs)

• Use gentle masks to draw out impurities

• Avoid touching your face throughout the day

• Always wash with clean, filtered water

Why filtered water is a game-changer for pore care

Most tap water isn’t kind to your skin. It can contain:

• Chlorine: strips natural oils and irritates skin

• Rust: especially in older pipes, clogs pores

• Microplastics: invisible, but present in many city supplies

• Heavy metals: like copper and lead, which worsen acne

By switching to filtered water with Lushi Filter, you start your skincare routine with a cleaner, gentler foundation. You’ll:

• Reduce pore-clogging residue

• Calm sensitive or reactive skin

• Improve product absorption

• See clearer skin with fewer breakouts

How to get clear skin (and keep it)

Removing blackheads is just one part of the equation. To maintain clearer skin:

• Use non-comedogenic skincare and makeup

• Stay hydrated

• Eat antioxidant-rich foods (like leafy greens and berries)

• Sleep well and manage stress

• Rinse your face with filtered water

Final thoughts: Clear pores start at the tap

If you're doing everything "right" but still struggling with blackheads, the issue may not be your skincare products—it may be your water.

Make one simple change: swap your tap water for filtered water with Lushi Filter.

Your pores will thank you.