How to Get Rid of Blackheads
Not sure how to get rid of blackheads? You're not alone. Despite being one of the most common skin concerns, those troublesome little dots are surprisingly difficult to remove.
Knowing what causes them is the first step on your path to clearer skin. In this guide, we'll explain what blackheads are, why they happen, how to get rid of them and what you can do to stop them reoccurring.
Understanding Blackheads
Overview of Blackheads
Blackheads are small, dark spots embedded in the skin. They're considered a mild type of acne, although some cases are more severe than others.
The skin is covered in tiny hair follicles, which each contain a sebaceous gland. These glands make and secrete sebum – an oily substance that helps keep the skin hydrated.
Blackheads form when hair follicles become clogged. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, including excess sebum production, inefficient cleansing or hormonal changes. Unfortunately, blackheads can be pretty stubborn and are one of the hardest types of spots to get rid of.
Types of Blackheads
Blackheads are what's known as ‘open comedones'. ‘Closed comedones' are what we call whiteheads. The difference in name comes from blackheads being exposed to the air, while whiteheads sit beneath the surface of the skin. It's this exposure to the air that makes blackheads oxidise, giving them their trademark colour.
There are generally only two types of blackheads:
- Surface blackheads sit on the surface of the skin and are the most common type.
- Deep blackheads form further into the pores and are a lot more difficult to remove.
Common Areas Affected
Because blackheads tend to appear where sebaceous glands are more active, you'll usually find them around the T-zone (the area incorporating the forehead, nose and chin). However, they can also pop up in other areas of the face and body, especially in places like the back, chest, neck and ears.
Causes of Blackheads
Blackheads come about because of a variety of reasons, often with multiple factors working together. Let's take a look at the most common causes.
Increased Sebum Production
Sebaceous glands can become overactive, leading to excess sebum production. If the skin produces too much sebum, there's nowhere for the oil to go but to remain in the pores. Over time, this build-up causes blackheads.
Trapped Debris and Bacteria
Sebum isn't the only thing that can block pores. Dead skin cells, bacteria and the environmental pollutants that the skin gets exposed to daily can all become trapped inside hair follicles. When debris like this accumulates, it can accelerate the formation of blackheads.
Hormonal Changes
As any teenager knows, fluctuating hormones often have a significant impact on the skin. But it's not just those going through puberty who experience blackhead frustration. Pregnancy, menopause and the menstrual cycle are all known to affect hormone regulation – and skin along with it.
Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle factors can also impact blackhead formation. Stress triggers the release of cortisol, which stimulates oil production. Diet plays a role, with certain foods (including high-fat and high-sugar products) being linked to adult acne. And hygiene habits such as touching your face too often or using products that are incompatible with your skin can also have an effect.
Prevention Strategies
Prevention is better than cure – or so the saying goes – and it's true that the best way to tackle blackheads is to avoid them building up in the first place. Here are some tips for getting rid of blackheads at home.
Proper Cleansing Routine
Regular cleansing will help prevent debris from settling in your pores – but be careful to use the right products, or you could accidentally make things worse. Harsh soaps strip the skin of oil but instead of causing dryness, the skin overcompensates for the lack of oil and ends up producing too much.
That's why salicylic acid cleansers are the go-to product for blackhead sufferers. The acid penetrates pores and dissolves dead skin cells, while still being gentle enough to not strip the skin.
Cleansing twice a day will keep your skin clean without damaging its natural barrier. Cleanse once in the morning to remove sweat and oil secreted overnight, and again before you go to bed to get rid of makeup residue and dirt that's built up throughout the day.
Exfoliation Techniques
Regular exfoliation is key to preventing stubborn blackheads and removing dirt clogged deep within the pores. There are two options:
- Chemical exfoliation uses acids to break down the bonds between cells so that they loosen and shed.
- Physical exfoliation uses abrasive materials like scrubs and brushes to remove dead skin cells manually.
Chemical exfoliants are usually more effective, but they can cause problems if you have sensitive skin. They are also more expensive.
If you do opt for a chemical exfoliant, look for products containing alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). BHAs are generally the milder of the two. Both are still relatively harsh chemicals, though, so limit usage to a couple of times a week to avoid irritation.
Physical exfoliants can also be very effective, although results aren't as uniform. Most blackhead-prone skin types can handle 3 or 4 exfoliating sessions a week. If your skin is on the drier side, 2-3 should be enough.
Non-Comedogenic Products
Heavy, oil-based makeup and skincare can clog pores and contribute to blackheads forming. You can prevent this by choosing water-based formulas or looking for products labelled ‘non-comedogenic'.
Even if you have oily skin, moisturising is essential for protecting the skin barrier. Gel-based formulas will limit clogging, and you can maximise hydration by adding ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides.
Immediate Care for Existing Blackheads
To take care of existing blackheads that simply won't go away, extraction might be necessary.
Proper Extraction Methods
When done improperly, extraction can damage the skin and cause further breakouts. Follow these steps to make sure that doesn't happen:
- Sterilise your comedone extractor.
- Thoroughly clean your skin and hands.
- Apply a warm compress to the affected areas to open pores.
- Position the loop of the comedone extractor over the blackhead, applying gentle pressure.
- Do this to each blackhead in turn. Don't force them if they don't come out easily.
If you don't have a comedone extractor, use clean hands wrapped in tissue and apply the same motion.
Most dermatologists and aestheticians offer extraction services. If you have blackheads that won't budge or you want to get rid of blackheads in your ear and other hard-to-reach places, it's time to see a professional.
Post-Extraction Care
Post-extraction, your skin might be sore and red. Applying a mild, fragrance-free moisturiser like this Soothing Facial Lotion from Weleda will help soothe it. Avoid anything containing acids at this stage, as your skin will be extra sensitive.
It's a good idea to not wear makeup for a few hours afterwards while your skin settles. You should also try to avoid touching your face during this period to prevent further blackheads from forming.
Long-Term Skincare for Blackhead-Prone Skin
A lot of the things that cause blackheads are unavoidable – especially hormonal changes and environmental factors. Developing a long-term skincare routine is the best way to minimize their impact and keep those pesky blackheads at bay.
Daily Skincare Routine
Everyone's skin is different. Experimenting with products is the only way to figure out what works for you. The following routine is a starting point that you can refine over time.
Morning Routine
- Use a salicylic acid cleanser.
- Apply a hyaluronic acid serum for hydration.
- Seal the skin with a non-comedogenic moisturiser.
- Follow up with a non-greasy SPF.
Evening Routine
- Use an oil-based cleansing balm to remove stubborn makeup.
- Then use your morning cleanser to remove excess oil.
- Every 2 or 3 nights, exfoliate with an AHA or BHA serum.
- On other nights, apply your hyaluronic acid serum.
- Finish off with your daily moisturiser.
Hydration and Moisturising
Keeping your skin hydrated without clogging your pores is the secret to managing sebum production and the blackheads that come with it. Even if you have very oily skin, moisturisation is therefore essential.
Oil-free, water-based moisturisers and gels are an oily skin type's best friend. You can encourage absorption and keep residue to a minimum by applying to slightly damp skin.
Diet and Lifestyle Factors
For a long time, it was thought that diet and spots weren't related. But recent evidence has indicated otherwise. One scientific study found a correlation between adult acne and milk, sugary drinks and fatty foods.
If you want to avoid foods that might contribute to blackheads, try cutting (or limiting) the following from your diet:
- Dairy products
- Sugar
- Refined carbohydrates
- Chocolate
- Fast food
Other lifestyle changes that can support the prevention of blackheads include:
- Drinking plenty of water
- Getting enough sleep (7-9 hours a night)
- Showering as soon as possible after exercise
- Reducing stress
- Changing pillowcases at least once a week
- Avoiding touching your face
Struggling with blackheads? Take a look at NVS Pharmacy's products for face to explore the products and ingredients mentioned in this guide.
