I honestly didn't have a routine for myself, I have been trying out things and never seen any big improvement. I definitely had blackhead problem and didn't know what the heck to do. It wasn't until these couple of months that I have actually been noticing differences on my skin, with the products selected I have been using.
I am now going to reveal my skin cleaning routine and introduce the products that I am using.
STEP 1. REMOVE ALL MAKEUP
Shu uemura - fresh pore clarifying gentle cleansing oil
This is the best makeup remover that I have ever used. First we take around 2 pumps of cleansing oil onto the palms of dry hands, then gently smooth over dry face. Remember to wet face to emulsify it before rinsing with water. As it may get a be messy, I personally prefer using it right before shower.
STEP 2. CLEAN CLEAN CLEAN!
Lush - Dark Angels Fresh Cleanser
This solid cleanser scrub is a bit harsh on skin therefore it may too exfoliating for sensitive skin. Again, this product makes a horrendous mess, but as long as we use it in shower, there wont be any problem. Dark Angle is a breakaway cleanser, with only one use, my skin feels so much smoother. All trace of oil is removed and Blackheads are visibly reduced! It seems to be the ideal product for socking up oil and mattifying skin.
3. APPLY BLACKHEAD STRIP
Kao Biore - Black Nose Pore Strips
I use this once a week as it may stimulate our skin if we use it too often. Process is real simple, wet your nose completely with warm water (I do this while taking shower), then put the nose strip on top of your noses, remember to press it firmly! Then wait 10-15 minutes and let it dry. When time is up, take it off really slowly. This is the most effective part for me regarding to blackhead removal.
Little Tips: Ensure the pores on your nose are opened and the strip is FIRMLY sticked.
4. GENTLE EXFOLIATION
First Aid Beauty - Facial Radiance Pads These are pads that helps to tone and brighten the skin. Good news for you if your skin is extremely sensitive as these contain anti-irratants. You can use it after shower, day and night. I have been using these for almost a month and have noticed a different in my skin in that it is more radiant. These pads are gentle and easy to use, and most importantly, is it not expensive at all! It costs only around HKD 250 for 60 pads :)
5. APPLY TONER
Kiehl's - Calendula Herbal Extract Alcohol-Free Toner
'An effective, alcohol-free facial toner' as states on Kiehl's official web. Same as the face washer from Origins, it does its duty as toner but it doesn't really help improving my skin. It's good for sensitive skin though.
6. SHEET MASK TIME ❤
LuLuLun - Face Mask Pack (7 Days)
While looking at LuLuLun, there are a whole lot of colours and variations. I personally feel they are all similar and something that they all have in common is that they boast not only using mineral oil, colouring or scents. Therefore those with sensitive skin would have no problem with this. I like to put my masks in fridge, it is a refreshing skin treat after a warm shower while my pores are still open from the steam, and particularly after I used the blackhead strip.
7. MOISTURISE
LuLuLun - Cream Mask
I use this as night cream after applying toner or the sheet mask. This watery cream make my skin soft and silky. Although it is very rich and creamy, is it not sticky at all. It provides skin with deep moisture during the night and a dewy glow morning. This product is safe for everyone, even with the most sensitive or dry skin.
The above 7 steps are my general night routine for fighting blackhead. Bare in mind that blackheads occur when your pores become clogged with excess sebum and dead skin cells. Scrubbing your face obsessively is not a good way to get rid of your blackheads and is only going to make it worse. Try to keep your skin as clean as possible therefore the most important step is to remove make up completely!