Recommended domestic blackhead elimination techniques, as advised by skin specialists
Blackheads, those pesky open comedones that can mar the complexion, are collections of oily liquid that clog up pores when they mix with bacteria and dead skin cells. Here's a guide to the best ingredients and products for tackling blackheads, based on dermatologist recommendations.
Exfoliating Acids
Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), is a popular choice for fighting blackheads. This acid penetrates pores to help dissolve oil, unclog pores, and prevent buildup of dead skin, oil, and other debris. Products containing salicylic acid, such as the Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA and the Murad foaming gel cleanser, are effective in targeting blackheads.
Mandelic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), is another exfoliant that can be combined with salicylic acid and niacinamide to target oily, blackhead-prone skin without irritation. The Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Clearing Serum, which combines the benefits of salicylic acid and retinoids, is a higher price point product that may be worth considering.
Lactic acid, another AHA, gently exfoliates dead skin cells and softens the skin, which helps prevent clogged pores. The First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads and the Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant are exfoliating facial pads that contain lactic acid and help target blackheads, enlarged pores, texture, and hyperpigmentation.
Sebum Regulation
Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production and soothe inflammation, reducing pore congestion and blackheads. The cleanser in this routine may contain green tea extract to soothe any irritation and redness. For those with dry skin, there is a cream-based version of the Murad cleanser with a lower concentration of salicylic acid.
Enhanced Cell Turnover
Retinoids, especially adapalene (available over-the-counter), reduce blackhead formation by promoting skin cell turnover and have anti-inflammatory effects. Differin Acne Treatment Gel, which contains 0.1% adapalene, is a "must-have" for anyone dealing with blackheads because it helps regulate skin cell turnover, preventing pores from clogging.
Absorption and Soothing Ingredients
Sulfur and kaolin clay help absorb excess oil and clear pores effectively. Products combining these with anti-bacterial agents like tea tree oil can reduce blackheads by both clearing and soothing the skin. Mighty Patch Nose strips, made from hydrocolloids, gently clear out pores while you sleep without causing pain or leaving behind any gunk.
Combining Ingredients
Dermatologists often recommend combining these ingredients in a routine that exfoliates the skin chemically rather than physically, as physical scrubs can irritate skin and worsen blackheads. Proper use involves gradual introduction to prevent over-exfoliation and pairing with moisturizers and sunscreen due to increased photosensitivity caused by acids and retinoids.
Thus, an effective blackhead-fighting routine involves gentle but consistent exfoliation with salicylic acid or mandelic/lactic acid, sebum regulation with niacinamide, and enhanced cell turnover with retinoids like adapalene, optionally supported by cleansing clays and anti-inflammatory ingredients like sulfur and tea tree oil.
- Salicylic acid, a popular ingredient for battling blackheads, penetrates pores to dissolve oil, unclog pores, and prevent buildup of debris.
- Mandelic acid, an exfoliant, can be combined with salicylic acid and niacinamide to target oily, blackhead-prone skin without causing irritation.
- Lactic acid, another exfoliant, gently exfoliates dead skin cells and softens the skin, which helps prevent clogged pores.
- Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production and soothe inflammation, reducing pore congestion and blackheads.
- Retinoids, especially adapalene, reduce blackhead formation by promoting skin cell turnover and have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Sulfur and kaolin clay help absorb excess oil and clear pores effectively, while products combining these with anti-bacterial agents like tea tree oil can reduce blackheads by both clearing and soothing the skin.
