Blackhead patches are very effective at removing impurities, as long as they are used correctly. Most of the ones you find on the market are designed to cleanse the nose, but there are also packs that sell mixed patches, designed for other parts of the face. This article will tell you how to use them.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Nose Plasters
Step 1. Wash your nose with a facial cleanser and warm water
It would be best to use an exfoliating cleanser to remove surface dirt residue and the bulk of blackheads.
Step 2. Wet your nose with water or a damp towel
It will open the pores, making it easier to remove blackheads. Also, for the patch to adhere well to the skin, the nose must be wet.
Step 3. Remove the patch from the packaging, then fold it back and forth
This way it will adapt better to the curve of the nose.
Step 4. Remove the plastic backing from the patch and throw it away:
at this point it will be ready to be used.
Step 5. Make sure your nose is still wet and stick the patch to your skin
Position it so that it takes on a curved and arched shape. It should face down, towards the tip of the nose (this part will be covered by the lower tab of the patch).
Step 6. Smooth the patch with your fingers
If the nose was moist enough, the patch should adhere smoothly. If any air bubbles remain, hold them for a few minutes to make them stretch well. The patch should stick to the skin as closely as possible.
If it doesn't stick well, moisten your fingers and press it into your skin
Step 7. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes
It will begin to harden, with an effect similar to that of papier-mâché. Try not to touch it or wrinkle your nose.
Step 8. Grab one end of the patch and gently peel it off
Lift it straight up, away from your nose. Don't rip it off - not only will you get hurt, you won't be able to extract most of the blackheads.
If the removal is painful, you may have left it on for too long. Wet a cotton swab with water and place the cotton tip on one edge of the patch. This will moisten the adhesive. Try to tuck the tip slightly under the patch. Once you are able to grab it with your fingers, remove the cotton swab and try to peel off the adhesive again
Step 9. Wash your nose with cold water and a facial cleanser
The blackheads have been removed, but the patch may have left a sticky residue on the nose. Avoid using hot or lukewarm water - your skin is particularly sensitive at this time, so you risk irritating it. Once all the residues have been removed, rinse your nose again with cold water: it will close the pores, preventing the accumulation of impurities inside them.
Method 2 of 2: Rest of the Face Patches
Step 1. Buy a pack containing mixed patches
Nose patches are typically sold on their own and cannot be used on other parts of the face. You will then need a mixed pack with special patches for the chin, cheeks or forehead.
Step 2. Wash your face with warm water and cleanser
You may want to use an exfoliating product, which will help you get rid of surface dirt and the bulk of blackheads.
Step 3. Moisten the affected area with warm water or a damp towel
It will open the pores, making it easier to remove blackheads.
Step 4. Remove the patch from the package
Make sure your hands are dry, otherwise you risk activating the properties of the adhesive prematurely.
Step 5. Turn and fold the patch to make it easier to adhere to the chin, cheeks or forehead
Step 6. Peel the plastic backing from the patch and lay it on a surface with the sticky side facing up, so it is ready to use
Step 7. Make sure the skin is still wet, then stick the patch to the affected area
Smooth it over your skin, making sure to get rid of any air bubbles or fine lines. If it doesn't stick well, lightly moisten your fingers and try to smooth it out.
Do not let it stick around the eye area: it is too delicate for patches
Step 8. Wait 10-15 minutes
The patch will harden as if it were papier mache. Try not to move your face too much or it may start to peel off. For example, if you apply it to your forehead, don't raise your eyebrows too much.
Step 9. Gently peel off the patch
Once it has hardened, grab it from an angle and gently lift it from the skin. Avoid tearing it - not only will you get hurt, you won't remove blackheads deeply.
If you apply the patch to your forehead, start peeling it off on both sides and work your way to the center
Step 10. Rinse your face with cold water and cleanser
The patch should have removed all blackheads, but there may be some sticky residue left. Cold water and detergent will eliminate them. Avoid using hot or lukewarm water, otherwise you risk irritating your skin.
Advice
- Before using a patch, always wash your face. Oily residues from makeup and creams can prevent it from adhering well.
- Before applying the patch, make sure your skin is wet. Blackhead patches do not stick to dry skin.
- If the patch is difficult to remove, lightly moisten it on one corner and try to peel it off.
Warnings
- Do not keep the patch on overnight. This doesn't make it any more effective.
- If you have burned skin or severe acne, don't use the patches.
- If the patch irritates your skin, discontinue use.
- Do not use nose patches more than three times a week, while chin and forehead patches should not be used more than once a week.
- If you are taking prescription medications to treat acne, ask your dermatologist for advice before using blackhead patches.
