Understanding Blackheads
Blackheads form when dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria clog up a pore. The top of the clog is exposed to air which causes it to oxidize and turn black. Blackheads are a type of acne and a very common skin condition. While tempting to squeeze, popping blackheads can actually make things worse.
Risks of Popping Blackheads
Dermatologists do not recommend popping blackheads for several important reasons:
Can Spread Bacteria
The pressure caused by squeezing a blackhead can rupture the follicle wall and push debris further down. This spreads bacteria deeper into the pores and skin which leads to more breakouts.
Can Damage Skin
Picking at blackheads can damage the follicle and surrounding skin. This can lead to permanent scarring or dark spots. The trauma also makes it more likely for new blackheads to form.
Makes Inflammation Worse
Popping blackheads causes inflammation and redness. The increased irritation makes it harder for the skin to heal.
How to Treat Blackheads Safely
While scratching and squeezing is tempting, keep your hands away from blackheads! Here are dermatologist-recommended methods to clear pores and prevent acne instead:
Cleanse Regularly
Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. This removes excess oil, dead skin cells, makeup, and other debris to keep pores clear.
Exfoliate Strategically
Gentle exfoliation can help dislodge congestion without irritation. Use scrubs and chemical exfoliants 1-3 times per week to lift dirt from pores.
Apply Acne Medication
Spot treatments containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids help unclog pores while killing acne-causing bacteria.
Use Oil-Absorbing Products
Clay masks, oil blotting sheets, and mattifying creams can control excess sebum production which clogs pores.
See a Dermatologist
For recurring blackheads, meet with a dermatologist. They can safely extract congestion and provide prescription strength treatments.
When to Visit a Dermatologist
See a board certified dermatologist if over-the-counter methods arent improving your blackheads. They have tools to properly extract blackheads without trauma.
Signs its time to make a dermatology appointment include:
- Blackheads cover large areas of your face
- Blackheads frequently reappear in the same spots
- You develop cystic breakouts around congested pores
- Blackheads result in emotional distress or impact your self-esteem
Comedonal Acne Extraction
The most common blackhead removal method used by dermatologists is comedonal acne extraction. Here is how it works:
First, the skin is thoroughly cleaned and sterilized. Next, the dermatologist uses a specialized metal tool called an extractor or loop to gently press down on either side of the blackhead. This applies precise pressure to lift the clog up and out of the pore without pushing debris further in or damaging surrounding skin.
The procedure is very low risk when skillfully performed. It immediately clears congestion and allows treatments to better penetrate into the pore.
Laser & Photodynamic Therapy
Lasers and photodynamic therapy kill acne bacteria to reduce breakouts. During these treatments a special solution is applied before using specialized light devices to activate it. The solutions react with the light which produces chemicals that destroy p-acnes bacteria.
Used consistently, these in-office procedures prevent new blackheads. They also have added benefits like improving overall skin tone, texture, and radiance.
Prescription Medications
Prescription topical and oral medications are extremely effective for treating blackheads and inflammatory acne. Common options include:
- Retinoids like tretinoin to exfoliate plugged follicles
- Antibiotics to combat bacteria
- Oral contraceptives to regulate hormones
- Anti-androgens like spironolactone to lower testosterone levels
Used for at least 12 weeks, prescription treatments can eliminate congestion and stop recurring breakouts.
Home Remedies to Avoid
You may come across dubious DIY blackhead remedies online. However, home treatments are risky and dermatologists recommend avoiding:
Glue Strips
Peel-off glue strips claim to pull out blackheads. In reality, they just remove surface dirt while irritating skin. They can even rip off facial skin leaving damage.
Pore Vacuums
Handheld pore vacuums are another blackhead removal device to steer clear off. The suction can extract healthy skin cells leading to infection or permanent pitted scarring.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste applied to pimples seems to be an internet rumor that wont quit. However, toothpaste contains ingredients like baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, and menthol which severely dry and damage facial skin when left on.
DIY Peels
From lemon juice to baking soda, at-home peeling solutions are too harsh for face skin. Caustic DIY treatments result in redness, stinging, burns, and increased breakouts.
The Takeaway
As tempting as it is to pick, resist popping your blackheads! Pushing or squeezing forces debris deeper into pores making congestion worse. Plus, picking leads to facial scarring which is permanent.
Instead, see a board certified dermatologist for professional treatment options. Their methods like comedonal extraction, lasers, and prescription medications clear acne while protecting skin.
FAQs
Why do I get blackheads on my nose?
The nose contains a high number of oil glands which makes it prone to clogged pores and blackhead formation. Dead skin cell buildup and bacteria can also get trapped easily in nose pores leading to blackheads.
How can I get rid of blackheads overnight?
There is no overnight fix for clearing blackheads. It takes consistent acne treatment over weeks to unclog congested pores. Create a regular skincare routine using ingredients like salicylic acid and retinoids instead.
Do blackhead removal strips work?
Pore strips only remove surface dirt and oil. They don't extract the deeper clogs causing blackheads. Plus, peel-off strips can irritate skin and cause facial scabs when used too vigorously.
Can you remove blackheads permanently?
Prescription acne medications like retinoids and oral contraceptives treat the underlying causes of blackheads, often leading to long-term clearance. Professional extractions by a dermatologist also remove congestion from pores.
Should I squeeze out hard blackheads?
No, never squeeze blackheads! That forces debris deeper into pores and spreads bacteria leading to more breakouts. See a dermatologist instead to have blackheads safely extracted.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Add Comment