Blackheads, also called comedones, are small black bumps that commonly occur on the T-zone of the face (forehead, chin and nose). This is because these areas have the most oil glands. Blackheads are caused when hair follicles mix with oil and then it is oxidized, turning black. If you have or currently suffer from blackheads, there are several spa treatments available to get rid of blackheads.
Glycolic Acid Treatment
Glycolic acid treatments are widely used at spas to remove blackheads. Glycolic acids and other alpha-hydroxy-acids (AHAs) are natural acids that come from things like milk and fruit sugars. Acid treatments like glycolic acid can help to remove blackheads by dissolving the “intercellular glue” that holds together dead skin cells on the surface. These dead skin cells trap dirt, debris and oil underneath, which then causes congestion (that is, blackheads). In addition to glycolic acid treatments, lactic acid and salicylic acid treatments are used in the same treatments.
Extractions
Facial extractions are performed during the steaming process of a facial. This is done because the steam helps to relax and open pores, making the blackhead extraction easier. Your facial therapist will use either her clean fingers with a special technique or she will use a comedone extractor instrument. After extracting the blackheads, your skin will be calmed using a toner to close down the pores.
Manual Exfoliant
Another treatment that can be used at a spa to get rid of blackheads is a manual exfoliation. A manual exfoliation is the use of a scrub or exfoliator to rid your skin of dead, dry skin cells that are causing pores to clog up. Microdermabrasion is another manual extraction-type spa treatment that is used alone or with other treatments for blackheads.
Galvanic Spa Treatment
Galvanic spa treatments are steady, direct electric currents that are widely used in spa treatments and facials. These treatments are designed to remove blackheads and other impurities. This treatment is done by a professional spa attendant and can be used for additional spa treatments to rejuvenate the skin.