Effective ways to help remove blackheads

It’s safe to say that the world has a special obsession with blackheads. A TV series was even launched in response to dermatologist Sandra Lee’s viral fame on YouTube — Dr. Pimple Popper — which lasted for nine seasons.

These blemishes aren't as much fun, though, when they show up in the mirror. That's when it's time to read up and see what dermatologists recommend. The good news is that a wide range of products can help eliminate blackheads and make them much less likely to appear in the future.

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What is a blackhead?

Blackheads, also called open comedones, are a type of acne that occurs when a pore becomes clogged. Pores are tiny openings or "holes" in the skin that release oil and sweat. Just like the smooth surface of the skin, these holes are lined with epidermal (skin) cells. These skin cells die and shed, just like any other skin cell.

When they do, though, sometimes they don't get pushed out of the pore. Dead cells can combine with the oil in the pore, creating a dense mixture of substances that block the opening.

“When that blockage is exposed to air, it oxidizes and turns a dark color, creating that signature ‘black’ head,” says Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of FACET Dermatology in Toronto.

So, that’s how they turn up, but what can people do about them? 

Is there a way to manage blackheads at home?

Dermatologists advise against trying to squeeze out a blackhead at home. Trying to squeeze a blackhead can cause worsening inflammation or even scarring. But some other approaches may be safer to try (like products that are available at a local pharmacy). For serious cases, it's also possible that a health care provider will prescribe a stronger treatment.

Over-the-counter (OTC) products to help get rid of blackheads

A trip to the drugstore may also be a good strategy for facing down these pesky spots. A number of OTC blackhead treatment products can help by slowing the buildup of oil and bacteria. That can allow the pore to clear on its own.

Face washes and moisturizers

A good skin care routine can keep the face clean and moisturized and, with the right products, can deliver helpful chemicals where they're needed most. Two types of products to look for are face washes y moisturizers. Face washes cleanse the faces and remove deep-seated filth and grime, and moisturizers can help the skin tolerate some of the drying ingredients in acne treatment products. It's best to look for moisturizers that are oil free and noncomedogenic.

Keep an eye out for salicylic acid, which appears in many OTC blackhead treatments. Face washes with salicylic acid help reduce greasiness "and can help soften up" the blackhead, says Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, a board-certified adult and pediatric dermatologist at SkinSafe Dermatology and Skin Care in Beverly Hills, California. Note, however, that salicylic acid can be drying or irritating to skin.

Some products with salicylic acid include CeraVe Acne Control face cleanser y Neutrogena Oil-Free Salicylic Acid Acne Fighting face wash.

Alpha hydroxy acids (like glycolic acid and lactic acid) are another good option, explains Dr. Shainhouse. "They can be less irritating and drying to some sensitive or drier skin types," she says. These acids will also help soften the blackhead while they lightly exfoliate the skin, which can help open the pore and let the debris out.

A face wash that contains alpha hydroxy acids is L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 3.5 percent glycolic acid cleanser.

Retinoids and benzoyl peroxide for blackheads

Chances are it will take some trial and error to find the right routine and the right mix of products. But two specific ingredients - retinoids and benzoyl peroxide — are often recommended to help manage blackheads, and they can be found in a number of OTC products.

Retinoids. These chemicals promote a faster turnover of skin cells and have a range of beneficial effects. While most types of retinoids are only available by prescription, adapalene can be purchased over the counter. Note that retinoids should not be used by pregnant women.

For a topical treatment containing adapalene, consider La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 1 percent topical retinoid acne treatment. Another great option is Differin - y CVS adapalene gel USP 0.1 percent topical acne treatment may work well, too.

Benzoyl peroxide. Dermatologists sometimes recommend a benzoyl peroxide wash. This chemical helps get rid of acne-causing bacteria on the skin. One such wash is PanOxyl Foaming Wash, Maximum Strength Deep Cleaning with 10 percent benzoyl peroxide.

When using products that contain benzoyl peroxide, store them according to the instructions on the packaging. They are usually stored at room temperature or cooler conditions (e.g., refrigerated). Benzoyl peroxide products must be discarded if they have been exposed to high temperatures (e.g., greater than 78 degrees Fahrenheit). Be sure to replace any products that contain benzoyl peroxide every 10 to 12 weeks.

Beware advice on how to remove blackheads at home

"People should never try to pop their own pimples, period," says Dr. Yadav. "Most people almost always make the situation worse." One worry is that using fingers or other tools can introduce bacteria into the mix, and that can lead to new infections.

Trying to push a blackhead out of a pore might also push it more deeply inside, making it even more challenging to expel or extract. And using force to try to get a blackhead out can damage the skin and cause scarring.

Pore strips, which use adhesive to remove dead skin and blackheads, can be "used once in a while with caution," says Dr. Shainhouse. While they can be effective in pulling out some of the surface debris, they also remove sebaceous filaments that are important to the skin's functioning, fine hairs and the top layer of skin. "If it dries too much and hurts to remove, don't rip it off!" she says. "Wet the strip and gently ease it off the skin."

If someone really must get rid of a blackhead, the best way is to visit a dermatologist, who can remove blackheads safely and professionally.

How to help prevent blackheads

Some people are just more prone to forming blackheads than others, explains Dr. Yadav. One study argued that people could have about an 80 percent chance of inheriting acne risk through the genes. If someone is prone to acne risk, she recommends regularly using a face wash containing salicylic acid. "Really focus the cleanse on the areas that tend to get congested," she says, "spending a minute or two washing them with the fingertips in a circular motion."

Also important is removing makeup at the end of the day. "Don't just rely on a face wipe to get the job done - wash the face at night to remove all traces," Dr. Yadav says. What to do instead: Use only makeup, sunscreen, skin and hair care products that are labeled "non-comedogenic" or "won't clog pores." These products don't cause breakouts in most people.

The best bet is to consult a dermatologist for a medical treatment plan that can help treat blackheads and prevent future breakouts. 

Este contenido es solo para fines informativos y no constituye un asesoramiento médico. Consult your health care provider before taking any vitamins or supplements and prior to beginning or changing any health care practices.