How do You Get Blackheads?
Blackheads: every beauty buff's worst nightmare and the one skin issue many people are forced to deal with. They’re no fun to get rid of and even harder to manage if left untreated. There are many tips and treatments out there that promise to eliminate blackheads, but will they do the trick?
As a mild form of acne, blackheads can quickly return, making them hard to fully get rid of. And even worse, they usually don’t have the best appearance. If you’re looking for clear skin free of blackheads, continue reading and we’ll go through basic information, why they form, and what to do about it.
What are Blackheads?
Blackheads, in its simplest definition, are the small dark-colored bumps that form on the skin. They get their name due to the black color on the surface of the bump. Blackheads are considered a mild form of acne that usually forms on the face but can appear on other parts of the body as well.
Acne is not unheard of by any means, as it’s the most common skin disorder in the United States and nearly 50 million Americans are affected by it according to the American Academy of Dermatology. It’s known to be a common skin disorder in teenagers, but adults can experience it as well.
This form of acne can naturally go away on its own depending on how deeply embedded into the skin it is. Normal blackheads can become bigger over time, and deep blackheads can last for years. This sounds like a tough problem to handle. They can be prevented, so don’t worry!
Where do Blackheads grow?
Blackheads can form all over the body, but most of them can be found on the face. This can be due to increased oil production on the face. Many people find blackheads on their noses, which can be a difficult area to deal with. They can also be found on the back since this is a hard-to-reach area when washing and often goes unnoticed.
Since the face is one of the main areas people find blackheads, using good facial cleaners and introducing a daily skincare routine into your habits can be very beneficial in preventing this annoying form of acne.
Why do Blackheads Form?
There are a number of reasons this type of acne can form. For some people, especially teenagers, hormonal changes can cause an increase in oil production. The buildup of certain bacteria on the skin, or irritation of hair follicles when dead skin cells aren’t shedding on a regular basis are other reasons.
There are also certain drugs, such as corticosteroids, lithium, or androgens that may increase blackheads. Some people also believe that what you eat or drink can affect acne and blackheads, but there’s not enough research yet to make a connection.
Keep in mind that blackheads don’t form due to the cleanliness of your skin, since they aren’t actually due to trapped dirt, they’re often just naturally occurring.
How do Blackheads Form?
Blackheads form when sebum and skin debris create a plug that blocks the skin pore. Sebum is the natural oil the body produces to keep the skin soft, smooth, and protected.
This blockage can occur anywhere there’s a pore and hair follicle. The reason for the dark color of the blackheads is due to the surface of the pore being exposed to air and oxidized, turning the plug a blackish shade.
Can you squeeze Out Blackheads
The simple answer is yes, it’s possible, but it’s not recommended and can have long-term consequences. When blackheads are squeezed out, it can actually push some of the clogged substance deeper into the skin, which can cause scarring. There are much better ways to remove annoying blackheads, which we’ll review below.
How Do You Get Rid of Blackheads?
Luckily, blackheads are unlike pimples since they don’t get inflamed, so you won’t have to worry about red spots or irritation.
This is helpful when getting rid of them since the process isn’t painful. There are many different techniques that can be used to eliminate blackheads, so let’s go over some.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
Medications can be an easy-to-use method in getting rid of blackheads. Many drug and grocery stores offer a large variety of acne medications that don’t require a prescription. The ingredients in the medicine work to kill bacteria, dry excess oil, and remove dead cell cells, ultimately eliminating blackheads.
Chemical Peels
Comedone Extractor
A round loop extractor can also be used to remove blackheads. They simply press against the skin, which pushes the clog out. It’s the same way many professionals extract blackheads, but they can be bought for at home as well. These are for the smaller and easier-to-remove blackheads though. Be sure to see a professional if you have deeper and more stubborn blackheads.
How to Get Stubborn Blackheads Out?
Deep blackheads require a stronger, more careful process of removal to prevent future damage to the skin. At-home treatments can be used, but the deeper and more stubborn the blackhead is, the harder it will be to remove it safely.
Vacuum Pore Cleansing Device
This tool is made to extract clogs from pores by creating suction on the skin, which loosens and draws out buildup in the pores. This device is said to work for all sizes of blackheads since the strength of the suction can be adjusted. We're not entirely sure this tool is effective, however the reviews seem great. It’s found in many large stores or online websites such as Amazon.
Prescription Medications
Doctors can provide stronger medications if you find the over-the-counter treatments aren’t working. Talk to your doctor to let them know the issue you’re experiencing and how to treat it.
Manual Removal
This method does the trick for deep blackheads that are very difficult to remove. Consult a dermatologists at a rofessional skin care clinic if this is an option you're considering. They use a round loop extractor to remove the plug causing your blackheads, then they apply pressure to remove the clog. This may sound painful, but dermatologists are experts so this method isn’t anything to be worried about.
How to Keep Blackheads From Coming Back
Preventing blackheads from forming is a different process than getting rid of already formed ones. The first step in preventing this type of acne is to thoroughly cleanse the skin on a regular basis. This helps get rid of excess oil and skin cells that could eventually clog the pores. Try a salicylic acid cleanser to help break down oil in the pores.
Exfoliating once a week helps remove dead skin cells and is highly recommended. A few other suggestions include using topical retinoids, using a skin brush, applying a weekly mineral mask, and eating a healthy, balanced diet.
Recommended Products for Blackheads
If you’re wanting clean and clear skin, we have some great products that provide different solutions in the process of prevention and removal of blackheads. Check out some of these lotions and serums for high-quality, effective ways of achieving acne-free skin.
HYAKKASO Natural Face Soap for Acne Treatment
This soap bar is designed to clean your skin by gently removing dead skin cells. It’s made up of several types of herbal extracts and minerals, making it an all-natural, healing solution for the skin. Using this soap can help treat oily skin, while exfoliating and moisturizing, which prevents blackheads.
View YAKKASO Natural Face Soap
NOA NOA LUXE Medicated Cleansing Gel
Adding a high-quality cleansing gel to the skincare routine is one way to help prevent blackheads. This cleanser is used for makeup removal, cleaning pores, and preventing the spread of bacteria that causes acne. It’s also made of natural extracts, ensuring that the product is natural and healthy to use.
NOA NOA LUXE VC7 EVO Serum
This serum is made using a special formula with a high Vitamin C content. This vitamin balances the production of skin sebum, which as we now know is a factor in blackhead formation. The balanced levels of sebum that this serum maintains help with the prevention of blackheads and acne.
View OA NOA LUXE VC7 EVO Serum
KYOTO KOMACHI Matcha Beauty Facial Wash
Finding a great facial wash is crucial to any skincare routine. Facial washes help clean the skin, getting rid of dirt and dead skin cells, and providing a clean and glowing look to the skin. A strong facial wash can help decrease acne and blackheads while softening and cleaning the skin.
View YOTO KOMACHI Matcha Beauty Facial Wash
Blackheads be Gone
In conclusion, there are many great products and methods for blackhead removal. This doesn’t have to be an issue you deal with for much longer, as long as you take steps to help your skin. By following the advice this article provides, you’ll find your skin to be cleaner, clearer, and more beautiful. Now go out there and get rid of those blackheads!
