Treating and Preventing Annoying Blackheads Behind the Ears

Understanding Blackheads Behind the Ears

Blackheads can develop anywhere on the body where there are pores that can become clogged. The ears contain many pores and sebaceous glands which produce oil. This means blackheads frequently occur behind the ears.

What Causes Blackheads Behind the Ears?

Blackheads form when the opening of a hair follicle becomes clogged with excess oil and dead skin cells. The debris oxidizes as it reacts with air, causing the characteristic black color of blackheads.

The skin behind the ears is prone to clogging for several reasons:

There are many oil glands concentrated in the area
Sweat and moisture can collect behind the ears
Hair products and cosmetics applied around the ears can migrate into the crevices
The area rarely gets direct cleaning, allowing debris to accumulate

Risk Factors For Developing Blackheads Behind the Ears

You may be more likely to struggle with ear blackheads if:

You have naturally oily skin
You use oily hair care products that get on the skin behind your ears
You wear headgear or hats that rub against the area
You have a skin condition like acne
You have larger pores in that area of skin

Clearing Up Blackheads Behind the Ears

At-Home Prevention

Making a few simple tweaks to your routine can help prevent new blackheads from appearing behind your ears:

Wash the area behind your ears daily with a gentle cleanser to remove oil, sweat, dead skin and product buildup
Exfoliate once or twice a week with a scrub containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid
Use oil-free hair products or avoid getting products on the skin behind your ears
Wear loose hair styles and headgear when possible to allow breathability behind your ears
Apply a lightweight, non-comedogenic (wont clog pores) moisturizer daily

Extractions and Treatments

If at-home care doesnt clear up blackheads behind your ears, speak to a dermatologist or esthetician. Professional extractions performed with proper technique can safely clear clogged pores. Chemical peels and prescription retinoids may also help resolve stubborn blackheads in the ear area.

How to Extract Blackheads Yourself

Gather the Right Tools

Proper technique and tools are vital when extracting blackheads to minimize skin damage:

Use a tissue to protect your fingers and improve grip
Extract only blackheads that have an visible, open core
Apply a hot, wet washcloth for a few minutes first to open pores
Use a sterile lancet or comedone extractor tool
Have alcohol swabs on hand to sanitize the area and tools
Use a gentle cleanser and apply a light moisturizer afterwards

The Extraction Process

Follow these key steps when manually extracting blackheads behind your ears:

Cleanse the area thoroughly. Dry skin completely.
Wrap tissue around fingertips and grasp skin to stabilize it. Have a light source handy.
Place lancet tip at the edge of the blackhead and apply gentle, even pressure to push out contents.
Swipe away expelled oil and skin with a swab. Do not squeeze surrounding skin.
Disinfect area and tool with alcohol swab. Wash skin and apply moisturizer.

Never force extraction or pick at skin repeatedly, as this causes trauma and infection. Seek professional help with extractions if unsure or dealing with widespread blackheads.

Other Remedies for Blackheads Behind the Ears

Overnight Spot Treatments

Look for targeted, leave-on treatments containing:

Salicylic acid - Clears dead skin cells and oil from pores
Sulfur - Absorbs excess sebum
Clay - Absorbs impurities from pores
Tea tree oil - Natural antimicrobial

Smooth a thin layer over blackheads behind ears before bedtime. Let dry completely before laying down. Rinse in the morning.

Alternative Remedies

Some natural ingredients DIY enthusiasts suggest for blackheads include:

Honey masks - Has antimicrobial properties
Apple cider vinegar - Contains acetic acid to break down skin debris
Baking soda scrubs - Gently exfoliates dead skin cells when mixed with water
Green tea toner - Has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits

Exercise caution testing household treatments. Discontinue use if any irritation develops.

When to Seek Professional Treatment

Consult a dermatologist promptly if you experience:

Severe or widespread blackheads unresponsive to home treatment
Inflammation, tenderness, redness or pain behind the ears
Changes in skin appearance elsewhere suggesting a new skin condition

A doctor can properly diagnose the cause and rule out any underlying medical issue. Prescription-strength acne medications or procedural treatments may be required to resolve stubborn blackheads.

FAQs

Why do blackheads commonly occur behind the ears?

The skin behind the ears contains many oil glands and pores. Sweat and debris also easily collect there. This makes the area prone to clogged pores and blackhead formation.

How can I extract blackheads myself?

Use a sterile tool like a lancet. Hot towels and light pressure can help gently clear pores. Disinfect the skin after. Never force extraction which can cause skin damage and scarring.

Will blackheads go away on their own?

No, blackheads tend to persist once formed. At-home care like cleansing and exfoliating can help prevent them but typically will not clear existing blackheads. Extraction or treatment is needed.

When should I see a dermatologist?

See a dermatologist promptly if you have severe or widespread blackheads that don't respond to over-the-counter washes and spot treatments. A doctor can provide prescription medications or procedures.

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.