If you’re a skincare junkie, you know how tedious blackhead removals are. Blackheads are, without a doubt, one of the most aggravating forms of acne. They can be difficult to extract safely and successfully because they’re embedded deep inside the pores. 

Before diving into the question of how to remove blackheads, let us first understand what blackheads are.

What are Blackheads?

Blackheads occur when a pore becomes clogged with dead skin cells and oil. When this material is exposed to sunlight, it oxidizes and turns black, hence the term ‘Blackhead.’

black heads

Blackheads are almost always found on the forehead, nose, and chin areas, which generate the most oil. They can also be found on the shoulders, back, and chest and within the conchal bowl of the ears. In scientific terms, Blackheads are called Open Comedones.

Genetics is one of the most common causes of blackheads. And we already know that stress and an improper diet can trigger breakouts. Still, some external predisposing factors can be monitored. Factors like skim milk and high-sugar foods, as well as stress, promote inflammation and oil production.

Continue reading to learn how to get rid of blackheads, prevent new ones from forming, and take better care of your skin in general.

How to remove Blackheads?

1)Clay masks

clay masks for blackheads

Clay masks help to pull oils and chemicals out of the skin, which helps to unclog pores. Clay masks are also regarded as oily skin must-haves. Sulfur is also present in some clay masks. Another element that helps to break down the dead skin cells that cause blackheads is sulfur. You can use any mask once a week in addition to your once- or twice-weekly exfoliating procedure (chemical exfoliants), regardless of which one you prefer.

The Innisfree volcanic pore clay mask, Cetaphil purifying clay mask, Prolixir detoxifying sea algae mask, etc., are among the best budget-friendly clay masks the Indian market has to offer.

2)Removing Blackheads manually

blackhead remover

One method for safely removing blackheads is to use a comedone extractor tool. The small loop on the bottom of a metal rod retracts the skin gently and brings the contents to the surface. Dermatologists recommended these comedones extractors because they are simple to use. Because the comedone extractor does not squeeze the sides of the pore as opposed to squeeze, it is also less likely to break the pore walls. However, tissue damage is still possible, so proceed with caution if you’re doing this at home. So, apply light pressure, and if nothing comes up, no matter how tempting it may be, put down the extractor.

By removing dead skin cells, a skin brush may provide similar exfoliating benefits like AHAs and BHAs. Skin brushes can only be used once in a while and only after a gentle cleaning wash. If you have sensitive skin, stop using a brush at all costs. There are several skin brushes available to use with your regular cleanser, depending on your needs and budget. Still, they are mainly of two types: Clarisonic (electric) face brush and hand-held face brush.

3)Topical Retinoids 

Another great way to get rid of blackheads is to use Topical Retinoids. Retinoids are a group of compounds derived from vitamin A used to treat several skin issues, including fine lines and wrinkles, and acne. If you’re new to retinoids, it’s best to start with every other night and gradually increase to every night as tolerated. Dermatologists advise against using heavy exfoliants, such as retinoids if you have dry skin.

Although prescription-strength retinoids are the most effective, using over-the-counter retinol to relieve skin congestion may also be beneficial. It presumably takes a few months before you notice a real difference in your skin. You probably won’t see changes for several weeks.

4)Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid, for example, is efficient at pore-clearing since it dissolves the bonds that hold dull, dead skin cells to the surface, exposing cleaner, clearer skin. Since BHAs are oil-soluble, they are an excellent choice for those with oily or acne-prone skin. AcneFree’s Blackhead Removing Scrub with 2% Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment is recommended by dermatologists. With salicylic acid entering pores and charcoal removing excess sebum, this product serves a dual purpose (aka, those oily bumps that can appear on the surface of the skin). It has a grated texture, as well as Jojoba oil for hydrating. It can also be used as a mild physical exfoliation.

5)Chemical Exfoliants: AHA and BHA

exfoliants

You may have learned that exfoliating has a detrimental impact on acne in the past. This may apply to inflammatory acne, but for normal skincare problems like pimples or blackheads, regular exfoliation can help eliminate excessive quantities of dead skin cells that can clog pores and cause blackheads. Instead of searching for harsh scrubs, a quest for alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs). 

The most popular form of AHA is glycolic acid, and salicylic acid is a prominent BHA. Both function by removing the skin’s top layer. This, in principle, will reduce the appearance of wrinkles and age spots while also cleaning pores. Skincare products with a perfect balance of AHA and BHA are- Cosrx AHA BHA clarifying toner, Clean and clear triple cleanse exfoliating scrub, etc.

6) Non-comedogenic products

The term “noncomedogenic” refers to a substance that will not cause comedones or clogged pores. You’ll have to read labels carefully since not all items are non-comedogenic.

As far as ingredients go, make sure they’re non-comedogenic. If you don’t use noncomedogenic makeup and face items, the best cleanser, mask, and exfoliator in the world won’t help you. In reality, Dermatologists advise using non-comedogenic products to begin a blackhead removal routine. A few effective non-comedogenic products are- ProActiv Green tea moisturizer, Neutrogena skin clearing liquid make up, etc.

7)Chemical Peels

how to remove blackheads

Chemical peels have long been used to treat anti-aging issues, including age spots and fine lines. AHAs or BHAs are commonly used in peels, and they operate by exfoliating the skin. 

After going through the procedure, the skin should appear smoother and more refreshed. Chemical peels can help with blackhead removal by removing dead skin cells and shrinking swollen pores, even though they aren’t considered a primary treatment for blackheads. If you’re looking for anti-aging benefits, this treatment method may be especially beneficial.