Blackheads live rent-free on our face, and in our heads. They pop up uninvited, in clusters no less, and leave you baffled. Do you touch them or leave them alone? Should you stock up on even more pore strips? Are there still some gaps in your multi-step skincare routine?
While blackheads can sneak up on you, we’re here to tell you that they can be managed with a regular routine, not limited to an age or skin type. Finding the perfect exfoliator or cleanser to remove blackheads first requires finding the root cause of their appearance. Let’s dive in.
Why me? Why do I get blackheads?
To begin with, blackheads are bumps filled with excess oil and dead skin that form on the skin. A variation of acne, they can be the result of a host of different causes.
1. Oil accumulation:
To begin with, blackheads are suckers for sebum, or oil, produced by sebaceous glands. When combined with dead skin cells and other debris, a plug is formed in the hair follicle which then appears as the nightmare we call a blackhead.
2. Hormonal changes:
Blackheads often appear during hormonal shifts triggered by puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.
3. Poor skincare habits:
Neglecting your skincare routine can lead to the accumulation of oil, dirt, and other debris on the skin, which then leads to the development of blackheads.
4. Comedogenic products:
To prevent clogged pores, we need to put our reading glasses on when we shop for appropriate non-comedogenic products. Those labelled as "oil-free" or "non-acnegenic” should be added to the carts of those with blackhead-prone skin.
5. Genetics:
Maybe it’s neither you, nor your cleanser, and not even your exfoliator. Sometimes, it’s just a consequence of genetics. But hey, there’s nothing that a visit to the dermatologist cannot treat.
6. Pollution:
Exposure to pollution and other environmental stressors can irritate the skin and increase sebum production which, in turns, results in blackheads.
Blackheads vs whiteheads
Effective removal of blackheads also means knowing the difference between blackheads and whiteheads. When excess oil on your face is exposed to air, it oxidises and turns black, giving blackheads (also known as open comedones) their distinctive appearance. When excess sebum remains trapped beneath the skin's surface bearing no direct contact with the air, the result is whiteheads, or closed comedones.
How can I remove blackheads effectively?
Sometimes, we give the whole “no pain, no gain” mantra too much significance for our own good. By adopting delicate methods of removing blackheads effectively, you’ll soon realise that the pain of tweezing, popping, and scrubbing blackheads is just not worth it.
1. Cleansing:
Regular cleansing can help remove excess oil, dead skin cells and other debris that contribute to the formation of blackheads. Double cleanse with an oil-based cleanser followed by a foaming wash to remove trapped dirt and product build up at the end of your day for a bump-free nose.
2. Exfoliation:
Exfoliating your skin can help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. Opt for AHAs and BHAs over harsh scrubs. Salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, is excellent at sloughing off dead skin cells and keeping your pores debris-free.
3. Retinoids:
Retinoids are a type of vitamin A that helps speed up skin cell turnover, leading to smoother texture and fewer blackheads.
4. Extractions:
We cannot stress this enough – do not try to squeeze and tweeze to remove blackheads at home. It can lead to broken capillaries which can be much harder to manage. Book regular appointments with an esthetician for safe extractions.
Removing blackheads effectively requires two essentials – a dab of patience and a pump of effort. Remaining consistent with your skincare routine will help prevent blackheads from popping up in the first place.
