How to Clear Up Blackheads

Blackheads form when a pore on your skin gets clogged with sebum (oil) from the sebaceous glands. The black tip actually forms when the oil oxidizes and changes color. Blackheads can be extremely stubborn, but you can clear up blackheads by following these five steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• A facial scrub or exfoliator
• An oil-free moisturizer

Clear Up Those Blackheads

1. Change your skincare routine. Exfoliate daily with a gentle facial scrub. Massage the scrub in a circular motion against your face, concentrating on problem areas such as the nose, forehead and chin. Follow-up with an oil-free moisturizer to keep skin from drying out.
2. Use non-comedogenic beauty products. Non-comedogenic means that the products are designed to not clog pores, which in turn lead to blackheads. Get rid of all the moisturizers and beauty products with oil. The oil in these products clogs pores and promotes the formation of blackheads. Look for labels that say "oil-free" or "non-comedogenic" when browsing products.
3. Try over-the-counter acne medications. Acne creams containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid work to eliminate acne-causing bacteria and slough off dead skin, essentially unclogging pores. These medications can be found at your local drugstore without a prescription. Use them on areas that are particularly prone to blackheads.
4. Get monthly facials from a certified esthetician. An esthetician will remove stubborn blackheads effectively and efficiently without damaging your skin or causing acne scars. They can also give you professional advice and tips on how to clear up blackheads.
5. Consult a dermatologist. As a last resort, and if you still haven't been able to successfully clear up your blackheads, make an appointment to see a dermatologist for a skin consultation. He/she can also prescribe stronger acne medication if your skin condition warrants it.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not try to remove your blackheads yourself by picking at them. This will only exacerbate the problem, and possibly lead to infections.