Acne is a leading cause of skin concern among many. Blackheads are also a form of acne that has oxidized. It can affect anyone, irrespective of skin type. But people with oily skin are more vulnerable to it. Blackheads mostly form when the skin’s pores are clogged by excess oil or dead skin cells. While there are various ways to prevent and get rid of them, seeking advice from a dermatologist helps address severe cases effectively.

Cleaning the skin
One of the most effective tips for blackhead removal is keeping one’s skin clean. One must make sure to wash their face before going to bed to get rid of excess oil and dirt. Using a cleanser that contains salicylic acid at least once a day can also be quite effective in reducing blackheads. However, if one’s skin is sensitive to salicylic acid, they can use it every few days or as suggested by a dermatologist.

Removing makeup
Another common cause of blocked skin pores is makeup that is left overnight. A helpful blackhead removal tip to keep in mind is to remove all face makeup before hitting the bed, no matter how tired one is. One can set up a bedtime routine that involves removing their makeup and washing their face. One can use a makeup removal product that suits their skin the best.

Exfoliating
Gently exfoliating the skin is another practical tip for blackhead removal. This gets rid of clogs in the skin pores and removes existing blackheads. However, if one has inflammatory acne, they might want to avoid exfoliation, as it could worsen their condition by increasing redness and irritation. Also, if one decides to exfoliate to remove blackheads, avoiding harsh chemical products and choosing those that contain alpha and beta hydroxy acids, like glycolic and salicylic acid, is recommended. These are safe, gentle, and suitable for all skin types.

Using a brush
When washing the face, especially at night, one can use a skin brush to help remove dirt and blackheads more effectively. It’s better to avoid this if one has sensitive skin. Different types of brushes are available in the market, from affordable handheld silicone brushes to more expensive ones. One can choose a brush depending on their budget and requirement. But they should ensure to regularly clean and disinfect their brush to avoid the buildup of grime and bacteria.

Applying masks
Clay and charcoal masks can effectively draw excess oil, dead skin cells, dirt, bacteria, and other impurities, cleaning one’s skin’s pores. So, one can use them for blackhead removal too. It is best not to use them more than once or twice a week, depending on the severity of the problem. There are many available variations in the market that one can choose from, or they can make one at home. If choosing a brand creates confusion, asking a dermatologist for recommendations can help.

Not picking or scratch
When one has an issue with blackheads, it is natural to want to squeeze, pick, or scratch them as a way of removal. However, this can cause permanent scarring of the skin. If one wants to squeeze them out, they can use an extractor tool or any other similar gadget instead of their fingers. Using the fingers can introduce more oil and bacteria into the skin’s pores, worsening blackheads. An extractor tool is a tweezer-like implement that can be disinfected before it is used. But one must seek the help of a dermatologist on the correct method of using it. Other tools that help remove dirt and debris are pore vacuums.

Moisturizing
Since the article has repeatedly mentioned in its previous points how excessive oil causes blackheads, this tip might sound strange and contradictory to the earlier points. But it’s important to know that moisturization is necessary, especially for those with dry skin. Keeping the skin moisturized adequately will balance oil levels, reducing blackhead occurrences. However, it’s crucial to choose a moisturizer that gets quickly and easily absorbed by the skin. Products containing squalene oil are said to be quite beneficial, as squalene is light but hydrating.

Steaming and facials
These procedures are suitable for all skin types. They can be done at home or by a professional and are pretty good for removing excess oil and debris by opening up pores and softening the dirt and blackheads, making it easier to get rid of them. They ensure that the skin is clean and its oil levels are maintained.

Settling for retinol
If blackheads are a recurrent problem, one should consider using products that contain retinol in their skincare routine, especially before bedtime. Retinol can boost the rate at which skin cells rejuvenate, thus preventing dead skin cells from accumulating and blocking pores. Retinol-based products are also effective as a treatment option for other types of acne. If one is unsure about using retinol in their skincare products, their dermatologist can suggest retinoid treatments.

One of the essential tips to remember while dealing with blackheads is to avoid oil-based or alcohol-based cleaners. Oil-based products are comedogenic, which can lead to clogged pores. Drying products like alcohol-based cleansers can strip the skin of all oils, triggering it to secrete excess oil to compensate for the dryness, thus causing even more blackheads.