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These 5 Things Are the Culprits of Your Blackheads

Published on June 21, 2016 at 6:00 AM

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We all deal with blackheads — you know, those pesky dirt-and-oil-clogged pores on your face that never seem to go away. But don't be too quick to write them off as a natural occurrence from environmental aggressors. While factors like pollution and humidity are certainly a big cause of blackheads, they're far from the only cause. In fact, there are plenty of things you're guilty of on a daily basis that are causing the common skin condition, from using the wrong type of products for your skin to not properly removing your makeup. Keep reading for the five things you need to stop doing now if you want a clearer complexion.

Working out with makeup on

The problem: Forgetting — or worse, neglecting — to wash your face prior to a rigorous workout can lead to blackheads, breakouts, and irritated skin. Your pores open when you sweat in order for your skin to breathe, so it's important that you don't block them by wearing heavy makeup.

The solution: Remove your makeup before a sweat session with a gentle cleanser and clean washcloth and again afterward to clear away the sweat and grime.

Not properly washing off oil-based makeup

The problem: Wearing oil-based makeup can increase the risk of blackheads and breakouts if not properly washed off. For instance, mineral oil is a common ingredient used in makeup products as a way to help skin retain moisture. Because of the physical barrier it creates on the skin to reduce water loss, it can end up clogging pores.

The solution: Mineral oil is colorless, odorless, and long lasting, which is why it's a popular ingredient to include in cosmetics. Always read the ingredient list of your makeup products and look for ingredients like liquid paraffin, paraffin oil, petroleum oil, or white oil. Use a scrub like St. Ives's Blackhead Clearing Green Tea Scrub three to four times a week, especially if using oil-based products or on heavier makeup days, to help clean out your pores, reduce redness and irritation, and ultimately help prevent blackheads that can be caused by makeup.

Washing your face before you shower

The problem: Cleansing your face before hopping into the shower may actually be a wasted step. Residual product from shampoo or conditioner can trickle down to the skin on your face and clog your pores.

The solution: Make sure to cleanse your face as the final step in your shower routine (or immediately after you step out) to wash away any residual product from your shampoo or conditioner.

Sleeping on a dirty pillowcase

The problem: Your pillow absorbs the sweat, dirt, and makeup from the surface of your skin while you sleep — and then transfers all that grime directly back to your skin. Because of this cycle, your pillowcase may be teeming with pore-clogging bacteria that can cause breakouts and irritation along your cheeks, temples, and jawline.

The solution: Be sure to put a fresh pillowcase on your pillow every three days to avoid perpetuating the cycle.

Wearing hats too often

The problem: Whether you're living in your favorite hat or switching between a few, bacteria gets trapped under the skin on your forehead and around your hairline every time you break a sweat.

The solution: We all love a good head accessory, so make sure to carry cleansing facial wipes to refresh and instantly nourish your skin on the go.

More from St. Ives

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Apricot Fresh Skin Facial Scrub

Oatmeal Facial Scrub

Green Tea Facial Scrub

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Apricot Blemish Control Facial Scrub

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