A Complete Guide to Blackhead Removal

Michael2周前 (12-20)HEALTH13


Blackheads, also known as open comedones, are a type of acne that usually lasts for six to eight weeks. They form when oil and dead skin build up and clog pores on the skin. The following is a detailed introduction to blackheads, including their causes, removal methods, and prevention measures.

I. What Are Blackheads?


The skin constantly sheds dead skin cells. When these dead skin cells mix with the secreted sebum (oil) and clog pores, blackheads are formed. Blackheads often appear on areas such as the nose, cheeks, chin, or ears, showing as dark pores. In fact, blackheads are originally transparent and greasy, and only turn black when the pores come into contact with oxygen.

II. Causes of Blackhead Formation


Acne is generally caused by a certain substance building up on the skin and blocking pores. Blackheads are formed due to the clogging of pores by excess oil and dead skin. Anyone can get blackheads, and the following factors may increase the risk:


  • Age: Teenagers are more prone to blackheads.

  • Certain Medications: Corticosteroids and lithium may change hormones and increase the risk of blackheads.

  • Genetics: If one or more family members have acne, one's own risk of getting blackheads will also increase.

  • Hormones: Hormonal changes during puberty, menstrual cycles, and pregnancy can increase the risk of blackheads. During puberty, androgen or male sex hormone levels rise, and androgens can cause the expansion of oil glands.

III. Blackhead Removal Methods


It should be noted that squeezing blackheads should be avoided as it can irritate the skin. Dermatologists can recommend some treatment methods to reduce the build-up of oil and dead skin that clog pores.

(A) Antibiotics


Although acne is not an infection, antibiotics may be helpful for moderate to severe acne cases. Dermatologists may recommend topical or oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline and erythromycin, which can reduce inflammation and bacteria on the skin. Usually, people with blackheads will not use antibiotics for a long time, but it is crucial to complete a course of treatment to make the antibiotics work effectively. Moreover, dermatologists often suggest using antibiotics in combination with other treatment methods, such as benzoyl peroxide, because antibiotics may lose their effectiveness over time.

(B) Chemical Peels


Chemical peels can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles and can also be used to remove blackheads. Although deep peels require general anesthesia, dermatologists will not use this method to remove blackheads. For chemical peels used to treat blackheads, conscious sedation may be required. After the procedure, doctors will recommend cold compresses and gentle application of creams on the face.

(C) Cleansers and Exfoliators


Physical exfoliation can make the skin tone smooth and bright, but it cannot reach the keratin and sebum inside pores, so it is difficult to effectively remove blackheads. Chemical exfoliators that contain ingredients that can loosen and dissolve dirt in pores, such as benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, or salicylic acid, should be chosen. For example, Dr. Joshua Zeichner, an associate professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, pointed out that salicylic acid "can remove excess oil, remove dead skin cells on the skin surface, dry out pimples, and clean pores." Dermatologists may recommend using these chemical exfoliators in combination with antibiotics or topical retinoids. In addition, products containing ingredients such as resorcinol and sulfur can also break down blackheads. However, it is important to stagger the application of these products.

(D) Comedone Extraction


Although dermatologists do not recommend squeezing blackheads by oneself, blackheads can be safely removed through comedone extraction. Comedone extraction requires the use of sterile tools to remove blackheads. When other treatment methods are ineffective, people often choose comedone extraction. It should be noted that comedone extraction cannot cure blackheads. A good skin care regimen needs to be maintained while undergoing other treatments to prevent future acne.

(E) Laser Treatment


If combined with other therapies, laser treatment can effectively treat blackheads. However, only certain types of lasers can remove blackheads. For example, photopneumatic therapy uses intense pulsed light (IPL) lasers and vacuum cleaners to remove oil and dead skin cells and reduce blackheads. In contrast, visible light and infrared light cannot treat blackheads. Usually, multiple treatments are required to achieve the best results. Laser treatment may cause mild side effects such as stinging and burning. In rare cases, it may cause long-term pain, burns, and blisters.

(F) Microdermabrasion


Microdermabrasion can be done at home or in a facial plastic surgeon's clinic, and both methods can exfoliate the skin and treat blackheads. However, dermatologists can penetrate deeper into the skin. The doctor will use an instrument to remove the top layer of the skin and then gently apply moisturizer to the affected area. The whole process takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Generally, 5 to 16 treatments are required. After each treatment, special attention should be paid to skin care, including gently moisturizing the skin and protecting it from sun exposure. Swelling or redness of the face may occur after treatment.

(G) Retinoids


Retinoids, whether topical or oral, are a class of treatment drugs derived from vitamin A. Examples of topical retinoids include tretinoin, tazarotene, and trifarotene. Retinoids can unclog pores, promote cell renewal, and even out skin texture. Dermatologists may recommend gradually incorporating topical tretinoin into a skin care regimen to treat blackheads. One can start with a low dose every other day and then gradually use the product daily. One of the side effects of retinoids is sun sensitivity. Dermatologists may recommend applying sunscreen actively every day. At the same time, it is advisable to avoid mixing acids such as salicylic acid with retinoids because both products can exfoliate the skin and may cause irritation and inflammation. The application time can be staggered, such as using acid-containing products during the day and retinoids at night.

IV. Blackhead Prevention Measures


  • Avoid Wearing Tight Hats: Headbands and hats may not directly cause blackheads, but they may aggravate acne.

  • Don't Touch Your Face: Although it may be tempting to squeeze blackheads, don't try it by yourself. Otherwise, bacteria may enter the skin and cause infection.

  • Don't Let Your Hair Cover Your Face: The oil that accumulates on the hair can clog pores, especially if you have bangs.

  • Be Persistent: A consistent skin care routine is as important as products for treating blackheads. Tretinoin and salicylic acid can help remove blackheads, but they need to be continuously used to prevent pores from clogging again.

  • Remove Makeup Every Night: If you wear makeup, make sure to remove it before going to bed.

  • Use Non-Comedogenic Products: Choose oil-free and non-comedogenic products. Non-comedogenic means the product will not clog pores.


Most blackheads will disappear within six to eight weeks. If blackheads persist for more than eight weeks, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist to obtain more professional treatment advice and solutions.

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