Understanding Blackheads and Why They Occur

Blackheads, scientifically known as open comedones, are a type of acne lesion that appears as small, dark or black bumps on the skin’s surface.

They are a mild form of acne and are commonly found on the face, especially on the nose, chin, and forehead.

Blackheads develop when hair follicles become clogged with a combination of dead skin cells, excess oil (sebum) produced by sebaceous glands, and bacteria.

Here’s how the process occurs:

Excess oil. Sebaceous glands in the skin produce an oily substance called sebum. Sebum is essential for keeping the skin conditioned and preventing it from drying out. If the sebaceous glands are overactive, then an excess of oil will be produced.

Debris. The skin constantly sheds dead skin cells as part of its healthy regenerative process. Sometimes, these cells do not shed properly and can accumulate on the skin’s surface, mixing with the excess oil and causing a clogging effect.

Clogged pores. When excess oil and dead skin cells clog the opening of hair follicles (pores), they form a plug known as a comedone. If the comedone remains open, it oxidises when exposed to air, giving it a dark or black appearance – which is why it’s called a blackhead.

Several factors can contribute to the development of blackheads, including:

Oil factor. Those with naturally oily skin are more prone to blackheads as their skin produces more sebum, increasing the likelihood of pore blockages.

Hormones. Fluctuations in hormones – especially during puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy – can lead to increased sebum production, which in turn, can contribute to skin congestion and blackheads.

Makeup or skincare. Depending on their ingredients, some skincare products or cosmetics can clog pores, leading to blackheads. It’s essential to use non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) products.

Diet. Although the link is not entirely clear, some studies suggest that certain diets high in carbohydrates and dairy products might exacerbate acne, including blackheads.

Genetics. If your parents had acne or blackheads, you might be more prone to developing them too due to genetic factors.

If you want to manage and prevent blackheads, then the right skincare, breathable makeup, regular cleansing, and exfoliation can all help.

Avoid comedogenic products – the ones that block your pores. Ingredients commonly found in these products include cocoa butter, lanolin, and oils such as coconut or wheat germ.

Instead, choose oil-free skincare or cosmetics. Some examples of non-comedogenic ingredients include aloe vera, vitamin C, and glycerin. Also, skincare containing a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) is a non-comedogenic product, because this ingredient gently exfoliates the skin to unclog pores, making it suitable for blackhead-prone skin.

For persistent or severe cases of blackheads, consulting a skin clinician is advisable for professional guidance and treatment options. Our team of Skin & Laser Therapists at Contour Clinics are highly experienced in treating all types of skin concerns, including blackheads of all severity levels.

Home Treatments/Remedies for Blackheads

Home Remedies for Treating Blackheads

Baking Soda and Water

How it works: Baking soda acts as a natural exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.

How to use: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste. Gently massage the paste onto damp skin, focusing on blackhead-prone areas. Rinse thoroughly.

Steam

How it works: Steam helps to open pores, making it easier to remove blackheads.

How to use: Boil water and pour it into a bowl. Lean over the bowl with a towel draped over your head to trap the steam. Stay in this position for 5-10 minutes. After steaming, gently remove blackheads with a clean, soft cloth or a blackhead extractor tool.

Salicylic Acid Cleansers

How it works: Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin, helping to remove blackheads and prevent new ones from forming.

How to use: Use a gentle salicylic acid cleanser as part of your daily skincare routine. Apply the cleanser to wet skin, massage gently, and rinse thoroughly.

Clay Masks

How it works: Clay masks, such as kaolin or bentonite, help absorb excess oil and unclog pores, making them effective against blackheads.

How to use: Apply a thin layer of the clay mask to clean, dry skin. Leave it on for the recommended time (usually 10-15 minutes) or until it dries. Rinse off with warm water.

Using Home Remedies Safely Alongside Professional Treatments

Do a patch test. Before trying any home remedy, test it on a small patch of skin to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction, especially if you’re currently using other treatments.

Ask the experts. If you’re undergoing professional treatments, inform your dermatologist about the home remedies you plan to use. They can offer guidance to prevent any conflicts between treatments.

Moderation. Do not overuse home remedies. Using them excessively can irritate the skin and worsen the condition. Follow recommended guidelines and consult a professional if you’re unsure.

Treating Blackheads at Home: Concerns to Consider

Skin irritation. Home remedies, especially if used incorrectly or excessively, can irritate the skin, leading to redness, dryness, or peeling.

Infection. Incorrect extraction methods or unsterilised tools can lead to infections, worsening the condition.

Damage to skin. Aggressive squeezing or picking at blackheads can damage the skin and lead to scarring.

Allergy. Some natural ingredients might trigger allergies in certain individuals, leading to rashes or swelling.

While home remedies can help, it’s crucial to use them cautiously and be aware of the potential risks, such as damaging your skin and leaving scarring.

For persistent or severe blackheads, professional guidance and treatments from fully qualified and reputable Skin & Laser Therapists is the safest and most effective way to achieve clear, healthy skin and lasting results.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments

Over-the-Counter Products and Ingredients for Treating Blackheads

Cleansers containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid. These are effective in exfoliating the skin and unclogging pores. These acids help to dissolve the excess oil and dead skin cells that contribute to blackheads.

Pore strips. These skin-safe adhesive strips are designed to physically remove blackheads from the skin. They adhere to the blackheads and, when pulled off, can extract the plugs from the pores, temporarily improving the appearance of the skin.

Choosing and Using Over-the-Counter Treatments

Read the label. Look for products with active ingredients like salicylic acid (typically 1-2%) or glycolic acid. These ingredients are proven to be effective against blackheads.

Testing, testing. Before applying any new product, especially if it contains potent ingredients, do a patch test on a small area of your skin to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction.

Consistency is key. Regularity is a must with any skincare routine. Use the product as directed and be patient; results may take a few weeks to become noticeable.

Easy does it. Using products with salicylic acid or glycolic acid too frequently can lead to skin irritation. Start with a lower frequency (e.g., every other day) and gradually increase if your skin tolerates it well.

Hydrate and replenish. The active ingredients in these prescription products can be drying for your skin, so it’s crucial to use a non-comedogenic moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated and balanced.

When to Consult a Professional

If over-the-counter products aren’t achieving significant improvement for your skin after several weeks, or if your blackheads are accompanied by severe acne, it’s advisable to consult a medical professional who specialises in treating skin.

Our team of expert Skin & Laser Therapists can provide personalised recommendations and perform professional in-clinic treatments like chemical peels or extractions, tailored to you.

Downfalls of Buying Over-the-Counter Products

Skin sensitivity. Some people may experience some irritation or redness when using over-the-counter products, especially from those containing active ingredients.

Guesswork. Without professional guidance, you might not be using the right products for your specific skin type and condition, which can lead to ineffective results.

Temporary solutions. Pore strips offer a temporary solution and do not address the underlying causes of blackheads. They may provide short-term relief but are not a long-term remedy.

While over-the-counter products can be helpful for managing blackheads, it’s essential to use them wisely, be aware of potential risks, and consult a professional if your skin condition persists or worsens.

Professional advice can provide tailored solutions for more effective and lasting results.

The Best Professional Blackhead Treatments

Treatments for Blackheads at Contour Clinics

Chemical Peels and Medical-Grade Facials. Customised chemical peels and facials containing actives ingredients work to exfoliate and gently resurface the skin. This process helps to clear out clogged pores and sweep away debris, which reduces congestion and therefore helps prevent blackhead formation.

Laser Therapy. Advanced dermal laser treatments target blackheads by reducing excess sebum production and eliminating bacteria, promoting clearer skin. We use multiple types of skin laser therapy to treat blackheads, including Q-Switch, Non-Ablative Fractional Laser, and Carbon Laser Facials.

LED Light Therapy. Different types of special light exposure can be used in skin treatments, with Blue Light LED being especially effective in reducing the bacteria that cause blackheads to form and multiply.

Dermaplaning. This non-invasive procedure gently resurfaces the skin, removing dead cells and debris, thereby minimising the congestion that causes blackheads.

Professional Extractions. Skilled and experienced dermal therapists can perform gentle and precise extractions to remove blackheads without causing skin damage.

Topical Retinoids. Your clinician at Contour Clinics may recommend using prescription-strength retinoid creams in conjunction with your in-clinic treatment to promote cell turnover, which helps to prevent blackheads from forming.

At Contour Clinics, you can trust our highly knowledgeable and experienced team of qualified Skin & Laser Therapists to provide you with the best treatment for blackheads, tailored to your specific skin type and needs.

Prevention and Aftercare

Once you’ve had your initial consultation for blackheads treatment, your Skin & Laser Therapist will guide you through the best homecare and treatment plan for you moving forward.

Some aftercare guidelines may include not applying any heavy or pore-blocking skincare for the next 24 hours after your treatment session, and likewise for makeup.

Depending on the treatment method, it may also be advised that you skip a sweaty gym workout for that day, to keep your skin cool and calm, and to avoid excess sebum causing any further congestion.

It’s always best to ask your treating Skin & Laser Therapist about what you should or shouldn’t do, depending on your personalised treatment plan, as they will know your skin, your treatment journey, and how to plan for the treatments you are having.

If you are uncertain of which treatments may work for you, or you’d like to be assessed for your own personalised treatment plan, get in touch today to book your complimentary consultation appointment.

Professional Treatments Remove Stubborn Blackheads with Contour Clinics

If you’re looking for a true solution to problematic skin and want the best treatment for blackheads available, then Contour Clinics is the right place for you.

We pride ourselves on offering state-of-the-art technology and gold-standard procedures, to ensure our patients get the very best available treatment and results.

While it may be tempting to take matters into your own hands and opt for a DIY treatment at home, this route can be fraught with undesirable complications for your skin, as well as low-level results, or sometimes none at all.

When your skin is already in a fragile or volatile state, the safest and most effective way to go is with a fully qualified professional, who has the skill and expertise to assess your skin properly and recommend its best course of treatment.

Sensitive, congested skin prone to blackheads is already tricky to deal with yourself, and if you’re not fully educated or experienced, some self-treatment attempts could even exacerbate the issue.

Seeking treatment from an experienced and qualified dermal clinician is the most effective and foolproof option, and brings the highest likelihood of success.

Treatment for blackheads need not be a complicated and fussy affair involving medications and messy at-home methods; it can be as simple and breezy as a comfortable visit to your nearest Contour Clinics location for expert advice and treatment from a qualified dermal therapist.

We offer multiple modalities for blackheads treatment, which enables us to perfectly tailor treatment to the individual person; there’s no one-size-fits-all approach here.

Contact us today to arrange your complimentary consultation, and discover just how effective our professional, in-clinic treatments can be for banishing blackheads.

Talk to us Book appointment