SUMMARY: Blackheads or “open comedones” are blocked pores that may resemble tiny specks of dirt. In reality, they manifest when the combination of excess oil and dead skin cell build-up within a clogged pore comes in in contact with air. This causes the build-up to oxidize or darken. Blackheads appear most commonly on the nose and central part of the face. To treat blackheads:
- Look for skin care products formulated with ingredients such as salicylic acid and adapalene (topical retinoid)
- Do not attempt a DIY blackhead extraction that can turn a minor blackhead problem into a major breakout!
- See a dermatologist who can perform mechanical extractions
- Don’t use harsh scrubs, which could irritate your skin
- Avoid pore strips, especially if you have sensitive skin
WHAT ARE BLACKHEADS?
Blackheads: A type of acne
Acne blackheads are easy to spot on the skin. They are dark in color and slightly raised. Blackheads are classified as a non-inflammatory type of acne, meaning they are formed when a pore is clogged with oil, skin cells, and debris.1 They are most commonly found on the central part of the face, but can also appear on the back, chest, neck, arms and shoulders.
WHAT CAUSES BLACKHEADS?
Discover why blackheads occur
Before learning how to get rid of blackheads, it’s important to understand what causes blackheads. Blackheads are caused by clogged hair follicles (also known as pores).2 Follicles contain hair and a sebaceous gland, which produces sebum (oil) to help keep the skin soft. Dead skin cells and excess sebum collect and form a ‘plug’ within the pore. This plug is slowly pushed toward the surface of the skin. When it comes in contact with outside air, it oxidizes and darkens, in the same way that cut fruit changes color when left out in the air.3
HOW TO GET RID OF BLACKHEADS
Blackhead treatment and removal
When it comes to getting rid of blackheads, look for products formulated with ingredients proven to help unclog pores. One such ingredient is salicylic acid. This gentle exfoliating ingredient helps dissolve the excess oil and skin cells that cause clogged pores in the first place.4 Salicylic acid can be found in a range of products such as face washes, toners, and other acne treatments.