Dermatologist Approved: Get Rid of Blackheads

Blackheads, just like cockroaches, are the worst for this very motive: Every time you squeeze one of them away, you locate dozens extra to tackle. How's that for a fun visual? 

As fulfilling as that squeeze can be withinside the moment, the peskiness of blackheads can wear on anyone. They simply KEEP COMING BACK! In search of answers, we approached our top dermatologists to discover a tried and tested way to fight away blackheads — for good.

First things first: What exactly are blackheads?

Before you go around trying to find a solution to rid your skin of blackheads, it actually helps to first recognize what they really are. Blackheads are simply an oxidized blend of oil and dead skin cells that are sitting in pores, [and] the exposure to air is what causes them to oxidize and turn black.

The technical term for a blackhead is an open comedone. How's that for a skincare lesson? There are two main types of comedones: open (blackheads) and closed (whiteheads). As Shari Marchbein, M.D., a board-licensed dermatologist and scientific assistant professor of dermatology at New York University, explains: "[Blackheads] are characterized by a dilated opening of a hair follicle, caused by the build-up of sebum, which is oil, P. Acnes bacteria — the primary bacteria responsible for causing acne — and inflammation."

In other words: A blackhead is largely a hair follicle; it truly is so blocked up with dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria that it becomes a wide opening at the surface of the skin. When all of this gunk hits the open air (due to the wide opening), it oxidizes and turns black. Despite their off-placing color, blackheads don't have anything to do with dirt.

How do you deal with blackheads?

When it involves fighting blackheads, or any sort of pimples for that matter, there are approaches you may use: You can DIY at home, or, for extreme or continual instances of blackheads, you may see a dermatologist. Here are the best treatments, products, and remedies to look out for, per top dermatologists.

• For slight blackheads, invest in a Salicylic Acid Mask

If you've got blackheads that just won't budge, your go-to ingredient must be salicylic acid. This beta-hydroxy acid helps put off excess oil and exfoliate the cells from the base of the pores to the skin. The Clarifying Clay Mask is enriched with Salicylic Acid that tackles congestion, removes impurities, and soothes inflammation to leave your complexion both clean and even. It also lifts away dulling dead cells that contribute to blackheads and visible pores, while purging embedded impurities and calming any redness to reduce the look of angry, active breakouts and prevent impending pimples.

• For extra stubborn blackheads, couple it up with Retinoids 

Retinoids can help deal with blackheads and clogged pores via means of lowering the stickiness of the cells that clog pores, as well as speeding up the rate at which the skin turns over and regenerates. While there are numerous retinol myths out there, the underlying reality about the ingredient is that the proper amount and strict routine can completely transform your skin - and that consists of assisting to preserve blackheads at bay. 

• Give gentle exfoliation a shot 

You may have heard in the past that exfoliating hurts acne. This can be applied to inflammatory acne as this process can cause further redness and inflammation. However, in the case of blackheads, regular exfoliation helps remove an excessive amount of dead skin cells that can lead to clogging of the pores. This process can also gently remove existing acne. Instead of looking for a harsh exfoliating agent, focus on alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHA and BHA). Glycolic acid is the most common type of AHA and salicylic acid is the prominent BHA. Theoretically, this can improve the appearance of wrinkles and blemishes, while at the same time unclogging pores and softening the skin. Need a scrub that has it all? Our Clarifying Microfoliant Scrub is the answer!

• Make sure you’re using non-comedogenic products

If you don't use non-comedogenic make-up or face products, proper cleansers, masks, and scrubs will do little. Our skincare experts recommend starting a blackhead removal regimen with non-comedogenic products. Non-comedogenic means that the product in question does not cause acne or clogged pores. Not all products are non-comedogenic, so get in the habit to read the label of products you apply on your face carefully.

• Lastly, take into account to moisturize

We've stated it before, and we will gladly say it again: Moisturizing is an important step in any skin-care routine — even if you have acne-prone skin. Why you ask? All of those techniques can also additionally strip oils from the skin and cause drying. It's important to maintain the right balance in the skin, and moisturizing will allow you to continue using exfoliating products without any issues. Going for lightweight formulas works best for people with oily and acne-prone skin and that is exactly why our Nourishing Moisturizer even while being extremely lightweight, packs a powerful moisture punch, attracting and increasing moisture levels for up to 24 hours of deep hydration thanks to Hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and babassu oil. 

The Takeaway

It's almost impossible to resist trying to get rid of stubborn blackheads with your two fingers, but do your best to leave it alone. Instead, try out the 5 ways that we have listed for you as they are all dermatologist approved! Like anything else, the best cure is prevention when it comes to blackheads. And with the help of some effective ingredients and products linked in this article, you can win this battle against pesky blackheads for real. 

Need more? Feel free to make an appointment with our dermatologist and get a skin consultation today!