Despite their appearance, blackheads do not actually contain dirt. A form of acne also known as comedones, blackheads are open pores filled with dead skin and oil. These pores may also contain bacteria. Unlike whiteheads, which are closed comodones, blackheads appear dark because of a reaction between the air and the pores' contents. Preventing or reducing blackheads can help keep more severe forms of acne, such as pimples, from developing.
Use Salicylic Acid Cleansers
Salicylic acid is the active ingredient in a number of cleansers. It not only treats the acne you already have but can help future breakouts from occurring. Salicylic acid breaks down existing blackheads and whiteheads. In addition, it slows the shedding process of skin cells. Since dead skin is one of the main components of blackheads, reducing the amount of shedding also limits the amount of clogging. Over-the-counter products begin with a .5 percent salicylic acid content, with the strongest containing 2 percent. Be aware that this acid can cause skin irritation, so start out with products containing the lowest percentage of the ingredient. Only use stronger cleansers if others are not effective.
Use Non-comedogenic Products
Look for cosmetics and skin products that are labeled non-comodogenic or non-acnegenic. These formulations, which may be oil-free, are designed to prevent skin irritation. Choose hair products with the same labels; residue from styling sprays or gels can irritate your skin during application or when hair rubs against your face. The American Academy of Dermatology also recommends choosing powder-based cosmetics rather than cream makeup because they are typically less irritating to the skin.
Clothing & Hygiene
Having blackheads doesn't mean you have poor hygiene; however, there are things you can do that help reduce inflammation to your existing blackheads and other forms of acne as well as prevent more clogged pores. Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes to limit skin irritation, especially if you're working outdoors or engaging in physical activity. Make sure to shower after exercise or other activities to keep sweat from trapping bacteria and dirt on the skin. Blackheads do not develop just on the nose, chin or other parts of the face so cleaning your entire body is important.
Avoid Squeezing Blackheads
Squeezing will not get rid of the blackhead and may, in fact, make your skin problems worse. While some of the blackheads' contents may be extracted during squeezing, most is actually pushed deeper into your pores. This can cause the bacteria in the blackhead to create more severe inflammation of the skin, resulting in other types of acne lesions, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
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