Blackheads: As tempting as they are, you should never bother with them. Trying to squeeze them out can lead to irritation, redness, and even scarring, plus it can feel pretty uncomfortable.
Professional extractions are a solution, but they come at a price. It’s better to opt for at-home treatments that will both reduce the appearance of blackheads and not drain your bank account.
From peels to chemical peels to resurfacing, there’s no shortage of options, but choosing the right formula is a subjective process. People with sensitive skin may benefit from a gentle toner, while those with oily skin may prefer a stronger acid.
So if you still don’t know the difference between BHAs and AHAs, you’ve come to the right place, because we asked the experts to tell you all about blackheads. You’re welcome.
What are blackheads? “Blackheads (also known as open comedones) are small, dark bumps that appear on the skin,” explains Dr. Ben Esdaile, consultant dermatologist at Skin + Me, adds: “They are caused by a buildup of dead skin cells and oil (sebum) which clogs the upper opening of the hair follicle (pore), causing it to enlarge.”
Blackheads are open acne lesions, so as the clogged oil and dead skin start to oxidise, they typically turn darker (so no, the black you see isn’t actually dirt).
While blackheads are common, you may notice these little dark spots on some parts of your face and not others. “Blackheads typically form in areas of the skin that have many hair follicles and sebaceous glands, which is why they are most common on the face, especially the nose,” says Esdaile.
We’ve already mentioned that no skin type is immune to blackheads – whether you have acne-prone skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, combination skin… you get what I mean – but it’s oily skinned people who are most susceptible.
How to get rid of blackheads? “There are a number of treatments to get rid of blackheads, as well as products that can be used to prevent them from forming,” says Dr. Esdaile. While there are many options, the best blackhead treatment depends on your skin type.
Chemical peels are one of the most common ways to open clogged pores, especially for sensitive skin. “BHAs (like salicylic acid) and AHAs (like glycolic and lactic acids) are great over-the-counter acids that dissolve dead skin cells and open clogged pores,” says Dr. Esdale.
While you can opt for a physical exfoliant to remove dead skin cells, Dr. Esdale advises against it, however. “It’s not necessary to use physical exfoliants like brushes or scrubs because they can irritate the skin, especially the skin barrier,” he says.
Also, check your INCI list for niacinamide. “This form of vitamin B is another helpful ingredient. Studies have shown that it can reduce oil production, which can lead to blackhead formation,” adds Esdale. If you can’t tolerate acids, you can try incorporating retinol into your routine. “Topical retinoids (vitamin A-based ingredients) are very effective for unclogging hair follicles and preventing the processes that lead to clogged follicles,” says Dr.
Esdale. Retinoids also speed up cell turnover, ensuring your complexion becomes clearer over time. What about the rest of your skincare routine?
While chemical peels are an expert-recommended way to get rid of blackheads, overuse can damage your barrier — and when that happens, you become less alert, opening the door to irritation and sensitivity. “If you use a chemical peel (such as topical retinoids), the treatment can seriously dry out your skin,” says Dr. Esdaile. “To help your skin better tolerate the treatment, add a gentle cleanser and moisturizer to your skincare routine,” he adds. It’s also recommended to limit use to one ingredient at a time, as overuse of multiple active ingredients can cause skin problems. So if your skin is irritated, consider packing it in moisture to help it recover and renew.
As tempting as it is, Dr. Esdaile stresses against squeezing blackheads, as this can cause the contents of the blackhead to seep deeper into the skin. If you’re dealing with a particularly large problem, he recommends seeing a dermatologist or aesthetician to effectively remove it, as over-the-counter treatments may not be enough. Try the best blackhead treatments now…
1. Medik8 Press & Clear If you’re serious about getting rid of blackheads, invest in this product. Encapsulated, time-released salicylic acid opens pores and cleanses skin – but that’s not all. Medik8 Press & Clear is designed for sensitive people, so it’ll keep your barrier calm and uncluttered, too. And since we were all kids, using a pump applicator was more appealing.
2. Medik8 Crystal Retina If you’re looking for something stronger, opt for Medik8 Crystal Retina over Press & Clear. Retinoids not only help open pores, but they can also act as a preventative by boosting cell turnover. The iconic one
The Crystal Retinal range also contains retinaldehyde, a retinoid derivative that slowly releases into skin cells to reduce irritation. This is one of the most advanced formulas on the market and a great value for money.
3. Dermalogica Liquid Exfoliant Hundreds of chemical exfoliants are vying for your attention, but Dermalogica’s new liquid exfoliant is way ahead of the rest. Its complex formula contains a potent blend of glycolic, salicylic, lactic and phytic acids, which, simply put, work together to remove dead skin cells and oil from pores. This milky fluid also contains fermented pomegranate enzymes to ensure your skin stays hydrated. With regular use, your skin will become more radiant.
4. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+ Anti-Acne Moisturizer When fighting blackheads, it’s a good idea to use a topical exfoliant, but be aware that an effective moisturizer can also make a big difference. Effaclar Duo+ Anti-Acne Moisturizer
is the latest innovation from La Roche-Posay, and the treatment has once again paid off. This lightweight cream activates the “pause” button on stressed pores, slowing sebum production and reducing blockage. Anyone with sensitive
acne-prone skin should take this treatment seriously.
5. Avene Cleansing A.H.A Exfoliating Serum It’s not a good idea to squeeze out blackheads. It’s better to use an exfoliating serum to remove the buildup. Avene’s new elixir is rich in lactic and succinic acids to remove dead skin cells and open up pores. Unfortunately, this doesn’t eliminate pores (that’s impossible or impractical), but it does minimize the appearance of pores by sucking out excess oil and dirt. Plus, it’s formulated with Avene’s patented thermal water, so even the most sensitive skin can benefit.
