Understanding Blackheads
Blackheads are a common skin condition that nearly everyone experiences at some point. They occur when the pores on your skin become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This plugged material oxidizes when it's exposed to air, turning black, which gives blackheads their distinguishing color.
What Causes Blackheads?
Blackheads form for a few different reasons:
- Excess oil production - Your sebaceous glands produce an oily substance called sebum. When too much sebum is produced, it can clog pores and cause blackheads.
- Dead skin cell buildup - Dead skin cells shed every day. When they don't slough off properly, they can stick together and clog pores.
- Clogged pores - Pores become blocked when too much sebum and dead skin cells accumulate inside them.
- Bacteria - The bacteria Propionibacterium acnes, which is present on everyone's skin, can cause inflammation when pores are clogged, leading to acne.
Where Do Blackheads Occur?
You can get blackheads anywhere on your body but they tend to be most common on the face, usually appearing on the nose, chin, forehead and cheeks. These areas tend to have more oil glands, making you more prone to clogged pores and blackheads.
How to Get Rid of Blackheads
Getting rid of blackheads requires regularly washing your face, using acne-fighting ingredients, gently exfoliating and properly removing blackheads that persist. Here are dermatologist-approved tips for clearing blackheads:
Cleanse Regularly
Washing your face twice a day is vital for preventing and getting rid of blackheads. Use a gentle cleanser meant for acne-prone skin and lukewarm water. Gently massage the cleanser into damp skin for one to two minutes to lift away oil, makeup and surface dirt. Rinse thoroughly and pat skin dry with a clean towel.
Use Acne-Fighting Ingredients
Look for acne cleansers and creams containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or alpha hydroxy acids. Here's how these ingredients fight blackheads:
- Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria
- Salicylic acid unclogs pores and allows blackheads to be removed
- Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) loosen sticky dead skin cell bonds to keep pores clear
Exfoliate Regularly
Exfoliating removes built-up dead skin to keep pores clear. Using gentle scrubs with soft microbeads or chemical exfoliants with alpha hydroxy acids two to three times a week helps prevent blackhead formation. Just don't over-exfoliate, which can irritate skin.
Use a Clay Mask Weekly
Clay masks are excellent blackhead removers. Look for masks containing bentonite or kaolin clay. Apply a thin layer to clean skin, leaving on for 5 to 10 minutes or until dry, then rinse. As the clay dries, it pulls out oil, dead skin and debris from pores. Use once or twice a week for the best results.
Steam Before Extraction
If blackheads are stubborn, facial steaming before extraction makes removing them easier and safer. A hot shower, soaked washcloth over your face or a facial steamer device helps open pores so blackheads lift out more easily. Steam for 5 to 10 minutes right before properly extracting blackheads. Just be very gentle when removing them.
See a Dermatologist If Needed
For troublesome blackheads not responding to proper home treatment, visit a dermatologist. They can extract blackheads properly and prescribe clinical-strength acne products. More advanced blackhead treatments like chemical peels and microdermabrasion can also help.
Blackhead Extraction 101
If you have noticeable blackheads, properly extracting them is key for preventing permanent enlarged pores. Take this blackhead removal advice from dermatologists:
Never Pop Blackheads
Pressing, poking, picking or popping blackheads can damage skin and make matters worse. It often pushes debris deeper into pores, causing infection, inflammation, scarring and enlarged pores.
Open Up Pores First
Before attempting to extract blackheads, take a hot shower or use a warm, wet washcloth on your face for 5 minutes. This softens skin and opens pores so blackheads come out more easily.
Use a Tissue for Extraction
To remove blackheads correctly, gently press down on either side of the blackhead with a tissue. Never squeeze, pinch or scratch blackheads. Apply steady, light pressure for 20 to 30 seconds until the blackhead lifts out.
Apply a Clay Mask Afterward
Dab on a clay mask after properly extracting blackheads to draw out any remaining oil and debris lingering inside pores to prevent new blackheads from quickly forming.
Disinfect and Moisturize
Cleanse the skin and apply rubbing alcohol or witch hazel afterward to disinfect extracted areas. Always moisturize properly since clay masks and acne ingredients can dry your skin.
Other Blackhead Prevention Tips
Here are a few more dermatologist recommendations for preventing blackheads:
- Avoid oil-based cosmetics and sunscreens that can clog pores.
- Shampoo hair frequently to keep excess oil and product residue from transferring onto your forehead and face.
- Avoid squeezing, picking or touching blackheads and acne as this spreads bacteria.
- Change pillowcases twice a week to avoid pore-clogging oils and bacteria transfer.
- Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet rich in antioxidants to promote clear skin.
When to See a Dermatologist
Visit a dermatologist if over-the-counter washes, creams and home treatments don't improve blackheads after a few weeks. A dermatologist can safely extract stubborn blackheads, provide prescription acne medications and offer advanced treatments like laser resurfacing to minimize their appearance.
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.
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