Acne doesn’t always appear as red, inflamed pimples. Sometimes it shows up as tiny dark spots scattered across your nose, chin, or forehead. These are blackheads – one of the most common and stubborn forms of acne. Although they may seem harmless, they can be frustrating to treat and are often tempting to squeeze.
If you’ve ever tried popping a blackhead, you’ve likely discovered that it rarely ends well. Instead of disappearing, it often leaves behind irritated, swollen skin, a larger blemish, or even long-lasting marks. The truth is that while countless DIY remedies and viral skincare hacks are promising instant results, many can do more harm than good.
Understanding what blackheads are, why they form, and how to treat them correctly is the key to achieving clearer, healthier skin. Here’s what dermatologists recommend and the common mistakes you should avoid when trying to get rid of blackheads.
What Causes Blackheads?
Blackheads are caused by a buildup of sebum, oil, dead skin cells, and possibly C. acnes (the bacteria that cause acne) that are stuck in the hair follicle. When these substances oxidize in the air, the opening turns black. Acne-prone individuals are most susceptible to blackheads, but there is a genetic predisposition as well. Hormonal influences also play a role, stimulating the production of sebum (skin oil)
Enlarged pores can also be present in individuals with severe sun damage. A decrease in the collagen support of the dermis surrounding the hair follicle can make the ostia appear larger and more dilated. An extreme example of this is in the condition Favre-Racouchot, in which patients have large blackheads in areas of sun-damaged skin, particularly around the eyes. If you already have blackheads, there are a few dermatologist-endorsed methods to get rid of them, and a few of them are preventive as well.
Use Products With Salicylic Acid
One go-to ingredient for eliminating blackheads is salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid that increases cell turnover and unclogs pores.
Add a Retinoid to Your Routine
Retinoids, which are available by prescription and over-the-counter in Differin, are a reliable method for ridding the skin of blackheads. Retinoids work by promoting skin turnover and decreasing the ‘stickiness’ of the skin cells to prevent blockage of the follicular ostia. When you start retinoid treatment, blackheads, also known as comedones, may worsen as cell turnover increases against a clogged opening, causing further dilatation.
Consider Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, are helpful for getting rid of blackheads as well, but salicylic acid is better for helping unclog pores.
Opt for an In-Office Treatment
A dermatologist can help rid your skin of blackheads. There are in-office treatments that can help diminish the appearance of pores. These include nonablative resurfacing (aka laser treatments) such as Fraxel laser or Clear + Brilliant laser or microneedling. While some people are happy with the results of a single treatment, others may need multiple sessions to achieve desired results.
The Worst Ways to Get Rid of Blackheads
It can be tempting to slough away all your dead skin in instant gratification via the help of an exfoliating scrub. While chemical exfoliators can be helpful, avoid overexfoliating with a granule scrub. Harsh scrubs can strip your natural oils and create more oil. Dermatologists in general recommend exfoliating up to three times per week, depending on the product you are using and your skin type.
Doing Manual Extractions
If you squeeze your blackheads, you can cause the follicle to rupture and induce the formation of an inflammatory lesion, or cyst. In other words, you can transform your blackhead into a much more serious skin condition. Keep in mind that the closer a blackhead is to the surface of your skin, the safer it is to squeeze.
Turning to Suction Devices
Tech that promises to suck sebum from pores may sound appealing, but these products may do more harm than good. This suction can be harmful to delicate facial skin and can induce telangiectasias, or ‘broken blood vessels’, to appear, particularly on and around the nose.
The Bottom Line
Blackheads may be one of the most common skin concerns, but getting rid of them isn’t about harsh scrubs or squeezing every clogged pore. A consistent skincare routine, gentle exfoliation with ingredients like salicylic acid or retinoids, and patience are far more effective than quick fixes that can damage your skin.
If over-the-counter products aren’t making a difference or your blackheads are persistent and widespread, it’s worth consulting a dermatologist. Professional treatments such as extractions, chemical peels, or prescription skincare can help clear stubborn congestion while preventing future breakouts.
Healthy, glowing skin doesn’t happen overnight, but with the right approach, blackheads can be managed without causing unnecessary irritation or scarring. Treat your skin with care, stay consistent, and remember that the best results come from long-term habits, not short-term solutions.
