Acne affects 60 million Americans, according the Acne Resource Center Online, including 85 percent of people between ages 12 and 24. Hair follicles open through the surface of the skin through pores. When these pores become clogged and exposed to air, a blackhead will form. This looks like a small, dark spot on the skin.
Cause
Sebaceous oil glands are located in the dermal layer of the pore. In some people, these glands secret excess oil. When this extra oil mixes with dirt and old skin cells, bacteria begins to grow and plugs the pore. This is also known as a comedone. Blackheads "choke" the follicular opening, according to skin website DERMAdoctor, which makes the pore larger. The spot turns black when it comes into contact with the air.
Prevention
To avoid blackheads on your face, wash your face one to two times a day with a gentle soap. Try not to touch your face with your hands, as doing so can transfer dirt that combines with oil to create blackheads. Prevent them from developing around your hairline by shampooing your hair daily and pulling it back to keep it off your face.
Extracting Blackheads
It's possible for a dermatologist to safely extract blackheads, however, it is not recommended to squeeze them yourself. If extracted incorrectly, the follicle wall could burst, which leads to more severe, inflammatory acne. Additionally, extracting blackheads will not decrease the size of your pores. It will simply remove the dark-colored material from the skin.
Blackhead Strips
Multiple skincare companies sell blackhead strips, which are thin sheets used to remove blackheads. The strip is "glued" to your nose and left for approximately 10 minutes. When you pull the strip off, the surface-level blackheads are lifted along with the strip. It's a temporary method of removing blackheads, but it is also easy-to-use and safe.
Topical Treatments
If basic cleansing and blackhead strips do not remove blackheads successfully, a chemical-based topical treatment is an alternative. They target the factors that cause large pores and can unplug debris, reduce excess oil and remove bacteria, which in turn reduces blackheads. Topical vitamin A treatments are available either by prescription (for a stronger dose of medication) or over the counter. The treatment loosens the plug of the blackhead so it can be exfoliated from the skin. These treatments should be used sparingly, according to DERMAdoctor, as they can be irritating.
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