Overview
To prevent blackheads and help reduce existing ones:
- Look for products with salicylic acid - this anti-blackhead saviour, found the Effaclar K(+) moisturiser, works by exfoliating the skin cells that can block pores.
- Never attempt a DIY extraction to remove blackheads as it can turn a minor blackhead problem into a major breakout, breaking the skin and causing further damage.
- See a dermatologist.
- Don’t use harsh scrubs and astringents, which will only irritate your skin.
- Avoid pore strips, especially if you have sensitive skin, as the adhesive can further irritate your skin, too.
- What are blackheads?
- What causes blackheads?
- How to get rid of blackheads
- Treatments for blackheads
- Trouble getting rid of blackheads? Consider seeing a dermatologist
- Blackheads FAQs
What are blackheads?
Blackheads are a symptom of blemish-prone skin, common in people with oily skin and acne-prone skin. They are easy to spot on the skin, as they are dark in colour and can be slightly raised. Unlike some other spots, they are not inflamed, so will not be painful if touched.
Blackheads can sometimes cause sufferers more stress than other spots due to their obvious colour, their stubborn nature, and how tricky it can be to remove blackheads.
Blackheads are mainly found on the central part of the face in the ‘T-Zone’, but can also spring up on the back, chest, neck, arms and shoulders. Anywhere where the pores can become blocked with sebum and excess skin cells is susceptible to this type of skin concern. However, the good news is that there are plenty of treatments for blackheads to help minimise their appearance and to keep them at bay.
What causes blackheads?
Blackheads are caused by clogged pores and hair follicles. Follicles contain hair and a sebaceous gland, which produces sebum to help keep the skin soft. However, when dead skin cells and sebum collect and form a ‘plug’, the pore can turn a blackish colour. This darkening is caused by the plug coming into contact with outside air, which oxidises it.
Blackheads are formed differently from other blemishes; rather than being a result of anything bacterial, they are simply a build-up of sebum. As a result, our bodies really couldn’t care less that blackheads are on our skin because they don’t threaten us in any way. Nonetheless, it is absolutely possible to get rid of blackheads, it may just take a little longer than some other blemishes. Patience is paramount in blackhead treatment!
How to get rid of blackheads
When it comes to getting rid of blackheads, salicylic acid is your best friend. This gentle exfoliating acid will unclog your pores and also minimise dead cell buildup by promoting healthy skin-cell turnover. Whether you’re looking to get rid of blackheads on the nose, on the chin, or anywhere else on the body, this ingredient is essential in keeping your pores clear.
Salicylic acid can be found in a range of products such as face washes, gels, serums, and creams. Remember to always be gentle on your skin to avoid irritation and redness.
Treatments for blackheads
Targeting ingredients
Some products that claim to be targeted at those with blackheads will contain alcohol, menthol and eucalyptus. These should be avoided as they can increase oil production, exacerbate the problem, and make it harder to remove blackheads. When looking for blackhead-fighting ingredients, salicylic acid should be in your skincare arsenal.
If you’re looking to target blackheads, Effaclar K(+) moisturiser is a great daily moisturiser.
Regular exfoliation
Another blackhead pitfall we have probably all fallen into, is treating the skin as though it is dirty. Blackheads may resemble tiny specks of dirt, but they are not formed because your skin is unclean, so it is important to go gentle on your face! Scrubbing may in fact stimulate nerve endings which leads to a release of hormones that increase oil production.
The introduction of a healthy skincare routine for blackheads that includes a micro exfoliant is important when trying to remove dead skin cells and create clear, glowing skin.
For the most persistent of pimples
If a combination of salicylic acid and gentle exfoliation does not work, a trip to the dermatologist to get rid of blackheads is advisable. If your doctor has prescribed either oral or topical actives that help improve cell turn over, it is super important to ensure your skin is protected.
It is good practice to always wear SPF to protect your skin, however, retinoids like tretinoin can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays so high-quality sun protection, such as the Anthelios UVMune 400, or the Anthelios UVMune 400 Oil Control for oily skin, is recommended.
In more extreme cases, or if someone with blackheads feels particularly affected by their blemishes, a professional can manually remove blackheads. A dermatologist will use a round loop extractor to remove the plug at the root.
Trouble getting rid of blackheads? Consider seeing a dermatologist
If you are having trouble with persistent blackheads, you may benefit from seeing a dermatologist who will be able to choose from a range of options; some cosmetic, and some medical treatments. Some of the cosmetic routes could include products with salicylic acid that you can buy in the pharmacy like Effaclar K(+) moisturizer, a great daily moisturiser.
See our recommended daily skincare routine for oily and blemish prone skin.
Blackheads FAQs
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