If you want to get rid of blackheads, you first need to understand what causes them. Blackheads are caused when pores become clogged with excess oil; the black color is not caused by dirt, but rather by the oil oxidizing through contact with the air. Cleaning the surface of your skin will do little to get rid of them, but there are other steps you can take.
The best way to get rid of blackheads is to prevent their appearance in the first place. There are many things you can do to prevent blackheads, including the following:
- Avoid greasy products, including oil-based makeup and overly thick creams.
- Don't use soap or other harsh cleansers on your face. Opt for cleaners that are pH balanced, and always choose something that does not contain oils.
- Exfoliate often using a product that contains beta hydroxy acids or alpha hydroxy acids, which can penetrate the skin and clear pores thoroughly. If you have oily skin, use a face mask at least once weekly to help you absorb excess oil.
- Review your medicine cabinet. Certain medications, such as birth control pills, can actually cause skin breakouts. Discuss changing brands or chemical composition with your dermatologist or other healthcare provider.
If you already have blackheads, there are also many things you can do to get rid of them:
- As tempting as it may be, avoid squeezing blackheads to get rid of them. This can actually damage the skin and lead to scarring; it can also enlarge the pore and lead to more blackheads in the future.
- Use blackhead or pore strips for areas such as the nose and the chin. When applied correctly, these tape-like strips can get rid of blackheads quickly and effectively. Strips are not for everybody, as they only clear superficial impurities and cannot deal with excess oil that is deep inside the pores.
- Acne medication can also be effective to eliminate blackheads. For very serious cases, talk to a medical professional about using a prescription-only product.
