How to Remove Blackheads and Say Hello to Clearer Skin!

Have you ever felt like the only thing standing between you and having clear and healthy skin is a mountain of blackheads? You’re not alone. Blackheads are one of the most common comedones *aka clogged pores* that plague skin, especially oily and combination types. 

But never fear! Even though blackheads can be tricky to remove, with some simple steps, tricks, and products you can lessen their appearance on your complexion - without scrubbing your face off or getting in an expensive facial. In this blog post, we'll cover tips from DIY approaches to at-home treatments to take care of pesky blackheads once and for all. 

So what are you waiting for? Let's dive in and get started on the journey toward a clear (and confident!) face!

What are Blackheads?

Blackheads, also known as open comedones, are a type of acne that appears as small, dark bumps on the skin's surface. They are formed when dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria clog hair follicles, creating a plug that protrudes from the surface of the skin. 

Unlike whiteheads, which are covered by a thin layer of skin, blackheads are open and exposed to air, which causes the plug to oxidize and turn dark in color. Blackheads commonly appear on the T-zone, including the nose, forehead, and chin, but can also develop in other areas of the body where hair follicles are present. 

Like whiteheads, blackheads are typically a mild form of acne and can be treated by practicing good skincare hygiene or by using over-the-counter skincare products for acne-prone skin.

If you want to know more about whiteheads, visit this blog now!

What causes blackheads? The 7 reasons why

By arming yourself with knowledge, you'll have the power to create an effective skincare routine or get effective treatment. Read on to find out what causes blackheads:

1. Excess oil production (oily skin)

Picture this: Your oily skin is producing more oil than it knows what to do with, so it decides to throw a wild party on your face. The guests of honor? Blackheads. 

Oily skin can cause blackheads because it leads to an excess production of sebum, which is the natural oil produced by the sebaceous glands in your skin. Sebum helps to keep your skin hydrated and protected, but when there's too much of it, it can clog your pores and cause blackheads

2. Hormonal Changes

Oh, the joys of hormones. They can make us happy, sad, and angry, and apparently, they can also cause blackheads. Yes, those pesky little dots that seem to have a permanent residency on our faces can be attributed to hormonal changes. 

You see, important hormonal fluctuations, our bodies produce more androgens, a group of hormones that include testosterone. These hormones increase oil production in our skin, leading to clogged pores and eventually, blackheads. So, the next time you feel like cursing your blackheads, just blame it on your hormones. It's not your fault, it's science!

3. Poor skincare hygiene

You want your skin to glow like the sun, not look like a lumpy old potato, right? Then you better pay attention to your skincare routine. Poor hygiene can cause all sorts of unpleasant skin ailments, including blackheads. 

Poor skin hygiene can contribute to the formation of blackheads because it allows the buildup of dead skin cells, dirt, and excess oil on the skin's surface. When these substances accumulate in the pores, they can form a blackhead that blocks the hair follicle opening.

A consistent skincare routine is essential for maintaining clean and healthy skin. Failing to cleanse your skin regularly can lead to a higher risk of developing blackheads and other forms of acne.

4. Heavy or oily skincare and beauty products

We all love a good moisturizer or face oil to keep our skin feeling silky smooth, but what if we told you that products that are too heavy or oily can clog pores and contribute to the development of blackheads Yup, turns out that these products can clog up pores and lead to a bumpy and uneven complexion. 

It's like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole: our skin just can't handle all that excess gunk, especially if it’s already oily. To avoid this, there are plenty of lightweight and non-comedogenic options out there that won't leave you feeling greasy or clogged up.

Related article: Why You Should Stay Away From Comedogenic Ingredients?

5. Diet 

As the age-old saying goes, "you are what you eat". And when it comes to blackheads, this couldn't be truer. Your diet can have a major impact on the health and appearance of your skin. 

Foods with a high glycemic index, like sugary treats or white bread, can cause a spike in insulin levels which can lead to increased oil production in the skin and, you guessed it, more blackheads. On the other hand, diets rich in antioxidants, like fruits and veggies, can help soothe inflammation and prevent the formation of these pesky blemishes.

6. Medications

We all know that medications have their side effects, but who knew they could lead to blackheads? It turns out that certain medications, such as steroid creams or birth control pills, can contribute to the formation of those pesky little blemishes. 

While they may not be the most serious side effect, it's still important to keep an eye on your skin while taking any medication. Who knew that something as simple as a medication could have such an impact on our complexion? So, next time you're dealing with blackheads, take a look at your medicine cabinet and see if there's anything lurking in there that could be the culprit.

7. Genetics

Your DNA may have a role in the formation and severity of blackheads on your skin. It turns out that certain genetic variations can lead to increased production of oil and sebum, trapping dead skin cells and causing blackheads to surface.

Our No-Fail Guide on How to Get Rid of Blackheads 

We have just the thing to help put an end to that pesky problem: A guide on how to remove blackheads and prevent them in the future. With this handy dandy guide, you can kiss those days of frustration goodbye and start loving your complexion again. 

So if you’re ready to get serious about saying bye-bye to pesky blackheads once and for all, then read on!

Cleanse your skin daily

When it comes to skincare, it's important to stay on top of your game. We all know the struggle of blackheads stubbornly camping out on our faces. It’s like they come with their own tiny tents and lattes, refusing to leave until we force them out. But before you start plotting ways to evict these unwanted tenants, make sure you’re adding one simple step to your daily skin care routine: cleansing your skin. 

Yes, it might seem like the most basic advice in the book, but trust us, it’s a total game changer. By removing dirt, oil, and dead skin cells and helping to unclog pores regularly, you’re giving those pesky blackheads less of a chance to take root. 

Use a gentle cleanser with green tea, salicylic acid, tea tree, or any type of acid to prevent and get rid of blackheads two times a day. So let’s all raise a glass (or a bottle of cleanser) to a future free of blackheads!

Water-based cleanser

Water-based cleanser BYE BYE BLACKHEAD 30 DAYS MIRACLE GREEN TEA TOX

Sale price$22.00

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Remove dead skin cells with an exfoliator

Exfoliating the skin is important for removing and preventing blackheads because it helps to eliminate dead skin cells, excess oil, and other impurities from the skin's surface. These substances can accumulate in the pores and form a plug that blocks hair follicle openings, eventually leading to blackheads.

Here are some reasons why exfoliating is essential for preventing blackheads:

• Unclogs pores: Exfoliating helps to clear out the buildup of dead skin cells, sebum, and dirt from the pores, reducing the chances of plugs forming and turning into blackheads.
• Promotes cell turnover: Regular exfoliation stimulates the skin's natural process of cell turnover, where new skin cells replace older ones. This ensures that dead skin cells are continually being shed and are less likely to clog pores.
• Improves skin texture and tone: Exfoliation can help to even out skin texture and tone by removing dead skin cells and promoting the growth of new ones. This can result in smoother, healthier-looking skin that is less prone to blackheads and other blemishes.
• Prevents acne: Since blackheads are a type of acne, exfoliating regularly can help prevent acne breakouts by keeping the pores clean and unclogged.

It is essential to choose the right exfoliating product and frequency for your skin type to avoid irritation or damage. For most people, exfoliating 1-2 times a week with a gentle exfoliant is sufficient. However, if you have sensitive skin or specific skin conditions, consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.

But, what’s the best blackhead remover when it comes to exfoliators? You have two options: physical exfoliators (like scrubs, strips, and balls) or chemical exfoliators (like alpha-hydroxy acids and beta-hydroxy acids). Here are our faves:

Chemical exfoliator

Chemical exfoliator BHA BLACKHEAD POWER LIQUID

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Physical exfoliator

Physical exfoliator TAKO PORE BLACKHEAD SCRUB STICK

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Use non-comedogenic products

You might be thinking, "What the heck is non-comedogenic anyway?" It's basically a fancy way of saying that these products are designed to not clog your pores. 

For those with oily or combination skin, opting for non-comedogenic products can prevent your skin from becoming an oil slick, which, in turn, can cause blackheads. And for those with dry skin, it means you can hydrate your skin without clogging the pores.

Don't worry, you don't have to sacrifice quality for the sake of your pores. There are plenty of non-comedogenic products out there that will do wonders for your skin:

Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated can help prevent blackheads for several reasons related to maintaining healthy skin function and balance. Here's how proper hydration can contribute to preventing blackheads:

• Regulates sebum production: When your skin is dehydrated, it may overcompensate by producing more sebum (natural oil) to keep the skin moisturized. This excess oil can clog pores and lead to blackheads. Staying hydrated helps maintain a healthy balance of sebum production, reducing the likelihood of pore blockages.
• Promotes skin cell turnover: Adequate hydration supports healthy skin cell turnover, ensuring that dead skin cells are continually being shed and replaced with new ones. This reduces the chances of dead skin cells accumulating in the pores and forming blackheads.
• Improves skin barrier function: A well-hydrated skin barrier is crucial for protecting the skin from environmental irritants, bacteria, and pollutants. When the skin is dehydrated, its barrier function is compromised, making it more susceptible to inflammation and infection, which can contribute to blackhead formation.
• Prevents skin dryness: Dry skin can lead to flakiness and an accumulation of dead skin cells, which can clog pores and cause blackheads. Staying hydrated helps maintain the skin's moisture levels, preventing dryness and reducing the risk of blackheads.

To stay properly hydrated, make sure to drink enough water throughout the day (typically 8-10 glasses), and incorporate hydrating skincare products like moisturizers and serums into your routine. Look for non-comedogenic products that provide hydration without clogging your pores. Additionally, avoid over-washing your face or using harsh cleansers, as these can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to dehydration.

Moisturizer

Moisturizer Centella Calming Gel Cream

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Moisturizer

Moisturizer Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream

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Moisturizer

Moisturizer Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream

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Eat a healthy diet

Eating foods high in antioxidants can help prevent the formation of blackheads in the first place, while foods that regulate oil production can help get rid of them. By incorporating things like green tea, salmon, almonds, and leafy greens, you'll be on your way to a clear complexion and saying goodbye to those pesky blackheads.

Salicylic acid, lactic acid, or glycolic acid treatments

Three of the most effective ingredients to remove stubborn blackheads are the BHAs and AHAs. 

Salicylic acid is a type of beta-hydroxy acid that is derived from willow bark. It is known for its ability to exfoliate and unclog pores, making it a go-to for those with acne-prone skin. However, salicylic acid can benefit all skin types by helping to improve texture and tone. It works by penetrating deep into the pores to break down and dissolve excess oil and dead skin cells, resulting in a brighter, clearer complexion. 

Glycolic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. This powerful acid is known for its ability to exfoliate the skin, helping to remove dead skin cells and reveal brighter, smoother skin. It also has anti-aging properties, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Despite its potency, glycolic acid is gentle enough for most skin types, making it a popular ingredient in many skincare products. 

Finally, lactic acid has proven to be a powerhouse ingredient in skincare. This alpha hydroxy acid is derived from milk and works wonders in smoothing the skin's texture and reducing hyperpigmentation and fine lines. Lactic acid is a gentle exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells, revealing brighter and more even-toned skin. It also promotes cell turnover, which means that your skin regenerates faster, resulting in a more youthful appearance. Additionally, lactic acid helps improve skin hydration by removing the outer layer of dead skin cells and allowing the skin to absorb moisture better.

Soothing toner

Soothing toner Green Plum + AHA Bubble Toner

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Steam your face

Do you wonder how to remove deep blackheads? The answer is very simple. First, steam your face for a few minutes to open those stubborn pores. Then, using a spoon wrapped in tissue paper, gently apply pressure around the blackhead area to coax it out. 

But beware, excessive force can lead to scarring and nobody wants to be left with a permanent reminder of their blackhead battles. Finish off with a gentle cleansing and moisturizing routine, and voila - hello clear skin and farewell to those deep blackheads! 

Don't pick your skin

We all want the smooth, flawless skin of a baby's bottom, but unfortunately, our skin doesn't always cooperate. Blackheads seem to pop up like pizza delivery ads on your phone - all the time, everywhere, and without permission. But resist the temptation to play dermatologist and pick your skin. 

In fact, did you know that picking can create more blackheads? That's right - all that squeezing can push bacteria and dirt deeper into the skin, resulting in even more pesky pimples. Plus, touching your face with dirty hands will do more harm than good!

Change your pillowcases and clean your phone

Dirty phones and pillowcases can cause blackheads because they harbor bacteria, dirt, oil, and other impurities that can transfer onto your skin when you press your face against them. Over time, these contaminants can clog your pores, leading to the formation of blackheads and other types of acne. Phones, in particular, are often overlooked as a source of bacteria, as they frequently come into contact with various surfaces and are rarely cleaned thoroughly.

To minimize the risk of blackheads from dirty phones and pillowcases, it's essential to maintain proper hygiene. Clean your phone regularly with a suitable disinfectant wipe or a microfiber cloth dampened with a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution. 

For pillowcases, change them at least once a week or more frequently if you have oily or acne-prone skin. By keeping these items clean, you can reduce the transfer of bacteria and impurities to your face, ultimately helping to prevent the formation of blackheads and other skin issues.

Where to find the best products to get rid of blackheads

If you are looking for all the must-have products to finally get rid of blackheads and enjoy beautiful, clear skin, Asian Beauty Essentials is a great place to start! 

From gentle cleansers and toners to blackhead-removing exfoliators and masks, at our store you’ll find everything you need to add to your skincare squad to gently banish all your skincare concerns away.

Visit our store today and stock on your faves and don’t forget to leave a comment below if you have any questions for us!