What are blackheads?
A blackhead is an enlarged pore with a blocked opening and a black discolouration to the skin. The black colouration of a blackhead is melanin - the skin's pigment - not dirt. A blackhead is medically known as a comedone and when the pore opening is closed, it is called a whitehead.
Why do we get them?
Blackheads are caused by the cells which line the pore opening and become stickier under the influence of hormones. This can lead to an accumulation of excess oil behind the blocked opening which, together with trapped bacteria, results in a pustule.
What is the best way to extract blackheads at home?
Dr Sue Mayou advises washing your face twice a day and if prone to blackheads look for products which contain salicylic acid as this has keratolytic action which helps dissolve the keratin plug and has an exfoliating action. Salicylic acid is a common over-the-counter problem skin ingredient found in cleansers, toners and lotions. Products which contain benzoyl peroxide are also helpful in encouraging exfoliation. However, be careful not to wash your face more than twice a day as excessive cleansing can irritate the skin.
Some blackheads can be easily expressed with gentle pressure and clean finger nails or a comedone extractor but leave alone if they do not come out easily.
Do blackhead removing scrubs really work and how?
Blackhead removing scrubs will work providing they contain the correct ingredients. Choose a product containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide as these encourage loosening of the plug and exfoliation. Make sure the scrub is a gentle exfoliator and use regularly to remove trapped oil and dead skin cells, which can block pores and may cause blackheads. Follow your cleanser with a toner for oily skin and an oil-free moisturiser to provide essential moisture to the skin without blocking the pores.
Do facials work to help remove blackheads?
A professional facial should include blackhead extraction after steaming the face and can be more effective when done by a professional.
Do you have any tips for preventing blackheads?
Wash twice a day to remove dirt and oil - this can be with an exfoliating wash if you are prone to blackheads. Use a toner for oily skin if extra degreasing is required, and if you have to moisturise chose one for spot-prone skin and try and use oil-free cosmetics.
Are certain skin types more prone to blackheads?
Not necessarily as blackheads are often caused by hormonal and stress levels but greasy skin is probably more prone to blackheads and they can also develop on the forehead if exacerbated by excess hair oil.
Blackheads are usually located around the nose, chin or forehead because these are the areas of highest concentration of sebaceous glands and oily skin often occurs in these areas. This leads to blocked pores so look for non-comedogenic products, which means that they won't clog the pores.
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