What are blackheads and why do they happen?

In essence, blackheads are clogged pores. They look black because the oil and dead skin cells are trapped inside the pore and are oxidized by exposure to air, turning the plug a darker color. Blackheads are common in areas with more active oil glands, like the nose, chin and forehead. 

What is the best skincare product to remove blackheads?

The best skincare for black heads are the ones that can dissolve the buildup in the pores and regulate oil production. Salicylic acid is a great ingredient to combat blackheads because it can penetrate into the pores to work to break down the plugs of oil and dead skin. Adding in a glycolic acid to your skin care regimen will help prevent the formation of blackheads by gently exfoliating the skin. Using retinoids will also help remove blackheads because they increase cellular renewal, helping to generate a fresher stratum corneum layer and prevent formation of new blackheads. 

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Which tool is best to remove blackheads?

I always recommend that my patients come to the office for any extractions. A comedone extractor can safely remove blackheads, if used correctly. Always start with cleansed skin and steam it (right after a warm shower or place a warm towel on your skin before extracting) to soften the blackheads. Using sterile tools and gloves is a must to prevent bacterial infection. Apply gentle pressure and stop if the blackhead doesn’t easily express.

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What are the risks of squeezing or picking at blackheads?

Extractions are best left to the professionals because there is a large risk of bacterial infection, inflammation and scarring when the pores are squeezed or picked at home. Never squeeze your skin. If you wish to attempt to express a blackhead, clean your face and sterilize your tools and gloves with rubbing alcohol, and pull your skin away. Never squeeze to pop!

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How can someone safely remove a blackhead that won’t come out?

Stubborn blackheads can be frustrating, but if it’s not ready to come out, don’t force it! Start using a salicylic acid-based cleanser and retinoid cream regularly to soften the plug. For persistent blackheads, consult a dermatologist or esthetician for professional extractions or exfoliating treatments like a Diamondglow facial or Moxi laser facial. 

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How can someone prevent blackheads from forming?

Exfoliate regularly, cleanse morning and night, never sleep in a face of makeup, use retinoids, and moisture. Balanced skin hydration can prevent your skin from over-producing oil, which is the key cause of black heads. 

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Is there any harm in leaving blackheads alone if they don’t bother someone?

No, there’s no harm in leaving blackheads alone. It might even be better to not poke at them and focus on your skincare routine. If you are experiencing enlarged pores or noticeable skin texture issues, consult an esthetician or dermatologist. 

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Are there any cutting-edge treatments or new ingredients for blackhead removal that you're excited about?

The DiamondGlow facial is my favorite way to address blackheads and complexion issues because it combines exfoliation with deep pore cleansing and customized serum infusions. It uses suction to extract debris from pores while exfoliating with a diamond-tipped nozzle. 

There are also a whole range of laser treatments that can help improve blackheads, including Sciton’s Moxi and Halo. These treatments can gently exfoliate, decrease oil production and resurface the skin, addressing blackheads in the process and helping prevent them. From a topical perspective, Exosomes are definitely my favorite new ingredient in skin care because of the potential to help the skin maturation by improving cell to cell communication and renewal. 

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What are your 3 favorite over-the-counter blackhead treatments?

• SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser or Pore Purifying Cleanser and treatment: combines key chemical exfoliators to unclog pores and prevent blackheads. The pore purifying products also help prevent the oxidation of sebum which is what causes the oil to clog pores and cause blackheads. It basically makes sebum less sticky. 
• Alastin Renewal Retinol: increases cellular turnover and renewal, creating a fresh canvas of skin and preventing formation of blackheads. 
• Plated Intense Serum: While not specifically targeting blackheads, incorporating an exosome serum like Plated can improve overall skin health and renewal, creating a smoother more resilient completion. 

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For personalized recommendations, schedule a consultation at SOM Aesthetics to take back your skin and rid yourself of stubborn blackheads.

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To learn more about different kinds of acne, check out this page from the American Academy of Dermatologists.

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