Blackheads occur when oil builds up in your skin pores, creating a plug. When the plug becomes exposed to air, it turns black. Blackheads present a cosmetic concern and also can be painful. You may turn to extractions to remove the blackhead -- however, this course of action can have permanent side effects.
Significance
When you extract a blackhead, you press on the surrounding skin to create added pressure to the blackhead, causing it to slide out of the pore. Blackhead extraction can be performed with your fingers or with a specialized metal tool known as an extractor. When performed correctly, this added pressure makes the blackhead come out and nothing more. However, blackhead extraction can have negative effects when performed incorrectly.
Drawbacks
Blackhead extraction can damage the deeper layers of skin underneath the blackhead. Scar tissue can take its place. Inflammation in the pore due to extraction can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, meaning the skin becomes red or purple. Also, blackhead extraction can release bacteria, causing infection and contributing to the development of other blackheads.
Benefits
Blackheads represent a significant buildup of oil, which can take several weeks to remove without intervention. When performed correctly, extraction is a fast way to remove unsightly blackheads and can reduce the need for weeks of treatments. If you do wish to extract a blackhead, this is best left to an aesthetician or dermatologist who uses deep cleansing, steaming and other tools to extract a blackhead, according to Medical News Today. Also, a dermatologist can determine when a blackhead is too tough to be removed and will avoid forcing a blackhead out -- an action that can result in scarring.
Prevention
Avoiding blackhead development altogether prevents the need to extract blackheads. Reduce oil build-up by washing the skin twice daily with an oil-free, water-based face wash, according to "Marie Claire." Use a topical treatment that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which helps to keep the pores clear and reduce oil. If your skin does not respond to over-the-counter treatments, your physician can prescribe a stronger treatment, such as tretinoin cream, which can prevent skin follicles from becoming plugged.
Solution
If you do experience blackheads, your best bet is to seek extraction from a medical professional to prevent scarring and infection, according to Medical News Today. If you must extract the blackhead, however, use care. Wash your hands and face thoroughly and steam the skin for several minutes before attempting to extract the blackhead. Place your fingers on either side of the blackhead, and press gently. If the blackhead does not come out easily, cease the extraction process.
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