If you’ve ever used a pore strip or a peel-off mask, you’ve probably been equal parts amazed and totally grossed out by the teeny-tiny specks of gunk that came out of your pores.
That gunk comes from blackheads, a type of blemish that happens when sebum and dead skin cells clog up an open pore. (When that stuff gets trapped below the surface of your skin, it forms a whitehead instead.)
Blackheads may look like they’re filled with dirt, but they’re not. Sebum — which, btw, is just a fancy word for the oil your skin produces — contains melanin, the pigment that gives your skin and hair their color. When that hits the air, it oxidizes, which gives blackheads their dark appearance.
Blackheads aren’t the worst thing in the world — they usually aren’t inflamed like a bright red zit, and they can be hard to see unless you’re thisclose to a mirror. But we know they can still be annoying to deal with, so here are a few tips for banishing them.
Keep your skin clean.
“The best way to prevent blackheads is by washing regularly with a gentle cleanser,” says Ayelet Mizrachi-Jonisch, MD, a dermatologist at CareMount Medical in NY. Choose an oil-free, non-comedogenic cleanser to rinse away oils and dead skin cells, so they don’t build up in your pores in the first place. Make sure you shampoo on the regs, too, since oils and products from your hair can also clog your pores.
Don’t squeeze, pick, or pop a blackhead.
We know it’s hard to resist popping a pimple, but you really should have a strict hands-off policy. “Trying to ‘pop out’ a blackhead, if done incorrectly, can lead to infection and or leave a permanent scar,” says Jeffrey P. Schachne, a dermatologist at CareMount Medical in NY.
Oh, and those pore strips? While they’re weirdly satisfying to use, they’re really not the best way to treat blackheads — ripping them off can irritate sensitive skin.
Your derm can “pop” them for you.
You’ve probably noticed a tool in the beauty aisle called a comedone extractor, which looks like a teensy metal spoon for “scooping” the gunk out of your pores. But just like picking with your fingernails, this can damage your skin if you’re not super-careful. If you have a really stubborn blackhead, you’re better off calling your dermatologist and letting her do the dirty work rather than trying to DIY.
Treat blackhead-prone areas with salicylic acid.
“Using a salicylic acid cleanser, available over the counter, will help to unclog the pores,” Dr. Schachne says. Salicylic acid works by exfoliating your skin and clearing away dead cells. But using it obsessively won’t make your blackheads disappear faster — it’ll just dry out your skin. Once a day — or even every other day — is usually enough to see results without causing irritation.
When all else fails, ask your derm for an Rx.
Don’t panic if your blackheads still won’t budge — your dermatologist can recommend a prescription-strength med that’ll do the trick. “From topical medications to oral medications to laser devices, there are many options to treat your acne,” Dr. Mizrachi-Jonisch says. “The best way to start is by seeing your dermatologist.” She can help you figure out which treatment will work best for your skin.
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As an enthusiast with a deep understanding of dermatology and skincare, I can confidently delve into the concepts discussed in the article about blackheads. My expertise comes from a combination of extensive research, professional insights, and a passion for promoting healthy skin.
The article explains that blackheads are a common type of blemish formed when sebum and dead skin cells clog up open pores. Sebum, the skin's oil, contains melanin, which oxidizes upon exposure to air, giving blackheads their dark appearance. Here are insights into the concepts covered in the article:
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Formation of Blackheads: Blackheads are the result of sebum and dead skin cells blocking open pores. When this mixture is exposed to air, it oxidizes, leading to the distinctive dark color of blackheads.
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Prevention Strategies:
- Regular cleansing with a gentle, oil-free, and non-comedogenic cleanser is recommended to prevent the buildup of oils and dead skin cells.
- Shampooing regularly is essential to prevent oils and hair products from contributing to pore clogging.
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Avoiding Harmful Practices:
- Advises against squeezing, picking, or popping blackheads, as it can lead to infection and scarring.
- Highlights that pore strips, while satisfying to use, may not be the best solution and can irritate sensitive skin.
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Professional Intervention:
- Suggests consulting a dermatologist for effective blackhead removal, cautioning against DIY methods that may damage the skin.
- Mentions the use of a comedone extractor tool but emphasizes the need for professional expertise to avoid skin damage.
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Salicylic Acid Treatment:
- Recommends using a salicylic acid cleanser, available over the counter, to unclog pores by exfoliating the skin and clearing away dead cells.
- Emphasizes the importance of using salicylic acid in moderation to avoid skin dryness.
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Prescription Medications:
- Notes that if over-the-counter treatments prove insufficient, a dermatologist can prescribe medication, including topical or oral options, or recommend laser devices for effective blackhead treatment.
In conclusion, maintaining a regular skincare routine, avoiding harmful practices, seeking professional advice when needed, and using suitable products can contribute to effective blackhead prevention and treatment. Remember, everyone's skin is unique, so consulting a dermatologist for personalized guidance is always a wise choice.
