Banish my blackheads! Q: Do you have any ideas for something to treat blackheads without splashing too much cash? I just can't get rid off them. If not do you have any home remedies? Alanarox, by email A: You can remove these stubborn little black spots fairly easily through proper skin cleansing and extraction methods. Firstly make sure you cleanse your skin every night. Avoid using a harsh facial scrub as this can remove the skins essential oils. The most effective and hygienic way of black head extraction is by investing in Cleansing Pore Strips. By placing them on the affected area, the strips lock onto your skin and pull out more dirt then you can see on the strip. With continual use you will end up with fewer clogged pores. There are also some effective home remedies you can try. Place your head over a bowl of hot steaming water with a towel over your head, this will give your face a steam and open up your pores. You can also add some essential oils like clary sage, eucalyptus or lavender to add to the cleansing affect. Next clean your hands and get some tissue and wrap around your fingers to protect your skin from the nails. Gently squeeze the blackhead until it releases any built up dirt in the pore. If it doesn’t come out easily then leave it. If you force the blackhead you will only aggravate it increasing the risk of inflamed skin or scarring.  Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips, £7.99

Even it out! Q: I need help applying foundation to get an even effect, how do I do this? JemmaxGrace, by email A: Invest in a foundation brush. These work best to create a flawless, even coverage. Sponges absorb too much of the liquid and waste the foundation and fingers tend to create a more streaky effect. Once you have got your foundation brush make sure you have a liquid foundation (as they work best with the brushes) and that it matches your skin tone. Use the tip of the brush and skim the foundation over the face and blend it in till it disappears.  Brush’s can take away the excess foundation and leave the right amount on your face. You can then concentrate more on your problem areas like spots and skin discolorations by working a bit more foundation onto these areas, building up gradually. Remember you can always add but you can’t take away with this process. Make sure you blend the foundation down the neck so there isn’t a visible foundation line left on your jaw. And voila this should give you a flawless and smooth coverage for the illusion of picture perfect skin. QVS Foundation Brush, £4.99, available at Superdrug