Blackheads, or open comedones, occur when oil, dirt, skin cells and bacteria plug skin pores. When these plugs are exposed to the air, oxygenation causes them to darken and appear as black spots on the surface of the skin. The American Academy of Dermatology, or AAD, states that blackheads and acne affect more Americans than any other skin condition, with as many as 50 million people in the United States experiencing at least the occasional blackhead.
Daily Skin Care
Preventing and treating blackheads requires frequent exfoliation to remove dead skin cells, regular washing to keep the pores clean and free of oil and dirt, and attention to proper skin care. The AAD warns that scrubbing your skin will increase irritation and worsen acne. Instead, gently wash your face and other acne-prone areas twice each day with warm water and a mild cleanser. Use cosmetics and skin care products labeled as non-comedogenic, as these are less likely to clog pores and cause blackheads, and avoid oil-based products and moisturizers. Always remove makeup before going to bed at night, and keep your hands and hair off your skin.
Oil Control
In addition to making the skin appear shiny and greasy, excess oil contributes to clogged pores and increases the likelihood of blackheads. Controlling oil production and keeping your skin clean is an important part of reducing the frequency and severity of blackheads. Use a clay mask as often as needed to reduce oil. Clay masks absorb oil and can help clear blackheads, at least temporarily, according to Quickcare. MotherNature.com states that the darker the clay, the more oil it will absorb. Astringents, such as acetone, rubbing alcohol and witch hazel, are beneficial at removing oil from the skin, but overuse of these products can cause redness and drying, according to DERMAdoctor.com. Use only water-based cosmetics and avoid overstimulating your skin with excessive washing, exfoliating or rubbing.
Blackheads and Body Acne
Blackheads do not only appear on the face; the shoulders, back and legs are other areas prone to blackheads. While treatment of body acne is generally the same as the treatment for facial acne, a few other lifestyle changes can help prevent blackheads from developing below the neck.
Avoid wearing tight clothing, and opt for cotton fabrics and waistbands to absorb oil and encourage air circulation around the skin. Exercise daily to improve circulation and to increase sweating, which actually works to flush the pores. The Mayo Clinic recommends showering immediately after exercise or other physical activity, however, as sweat and oil left on your skin can trap bacteria and dirt and increase blackheads. Most acne medications are appropriate for use on the body. Ask a friend or family member to apply topical creams and lotions to hard-to-reach areas.
Safe Blackhead Removal
Several products are available over the counter for blackhead removal. Pore strips are adhesives that work by pulling blackheads from the skin, although these products are typically only effective for blackheads that are very near the skin’s surface. Blackhead extractors are tools with a hole or loop on one end. The hole is gently pressed against the blackhead to lift it to the surface of the skin, where it can be washed away. Steam is also useful for loosening blackheads and opening the pores. Avoid picking at, popping, or squeezing blackheads, as doing so can increase irritation and inflammation, push bacteria deeper into the skin, and lead to scarring, according to the AAD.
Medications and Other Treatments
Medications for acne are available both over the counter and by prescription. Topical medications include benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids and antibiotics. These medications work by reducing oil, altering the rate of skin cell shedding or killing the bacteria associated with acne. Systemic medications, which include oral antibiotics, hormone therapy and corticosteroid injections, work to clear acne from inside the body and are typically necessary for moderate to severe cases.
Birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy are sometimes effective for blackheads caused by hormonal imbalances, such as those that occur during adolescence or menopause. Chemical peels can remove blackheads by peeling away the top layer of skin, but this treatment offers only temporary relief. Different medications and treatments work for different people and types of acne, which makes visiting a dermatologist for evaluation essential.
