Is it possible to get rid of pesky blackheads for good? Yes–here’s how to tackle them and keep them from coming back.
Anyone who has ever had blackheads knows how maddeningly frustrating it is to get rid of them. Even though these dark, clogged-up pores are common phenomena, many of us are still looking for effective ways to banish them for good. While there is no dearth of blackhead-busting products on the market, they often don’t deliver satisfactory results. But all’s not lost! It can be challenging to combat blackheads, but it is not impossible. All you need to do is understand the root cause of the problem and act on it.
What are blackheads?
Contrary to popular belief, blackheads are not just dirt-clogged pores. These tiny dark spots are a type of acne called open comedones. Blackheads don’t have a white or yellow pus-filled centre like other types of acne do. Instead, when exposed to air, they oxidise and become dark because they are made up of a mixture of bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells.
Admittedly, genetics is the primary cause of blackheads. But, if you have oily or combination skin, you are more susceptible to these black dots. And they usually appear on the areas surrounding your nose, forehead, and chin. These areas have a high concentration of sebaceous glands, making them a goldmine for excess oil and, as a result, more prone to clogged pores.
How to get rid of blackheads forever?
If stubborn blackheads are the bane of existence, I have good news for you. Here are some tips and tricks that you can follow to clear out your pores and banish blackheads for good.
- Exfoliate regularly
Do you often skip the exfoliation step of your skincare routine? You must stop! Since clogged pores are the root cause of blackheads, you need to exfoliate your face regularly to keep them at bay. I recommend gently exfoliating your skin once or twice a week to keep your pores clear. Choosing the right exfoliant is also essential. As physical exfoliants can be harsh on your skin, I recommend reaching out for gentle chemical exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin.
- Try a retinoid
If you are struggling with severe acne and blackheads and haven’t added retinoids to your skincare routine, you are seriously missing out. These vitamin A derivatives are clinically proven to treat wrinkles, acne, and a host of other skin concerns. They are particularly beneficial for tackling blackheads as they increase cell turnover, which helps to prevent the build-up that causes clogged pores.
- Opt for products with salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is one of the most popular acne-fighting ingredients. So, if you are struggling with blackheads (and even whiteheads), you must add this potent ingredient to your beauty shelf. This beta-hydroxy acid effortlessly clears out your pores by diving deep into your pores and dissolving sebum and dead skin cells. BHAs are also oil-soluble, making them an excellent choice for anyone with oily or acne-prone skin. That’s not all! It also keeps blackheads from recurring by keeping your pores oil and dirt free.
Since it is a potent ingredient, I recommend adding it gradually to your skincare routine to prevent skin irritation. It is a good idea to start with a gentle cleanser that contains low salicylic acid and use it once or twice a day.
- Leave it to the professionals
The best way to banish blackheads is to visit a pore professional. They might recommend treatments like chemical peels and HydraFacial, which can be game-changers in your quest for clear skin. Chemical peels contain mild acids that are applied in a single layer on the skin to unclog your pores and reveal radiant and rejuvenated skin. HydraFacial is also an excellent treatment option for blackheads–it clears out your pores without overly stripping your skin of moisture. It uses gentle suction to remove trapped gunk while infusing your skin with moisture.
To learn more about blackheads and the treatments to get rid of them, book a consultation with me. Click here.