Blackheads Are Getting Cancelled — READ HOW

One of the most common questions people ask me is how to get rid of blackheads. Blackheads are one of the most common skin concerns and can be so stubborn to get rid of! It is important to understand the underlying causes of blackheads and what treatments actually work in order to make them stay gone for good! Here are my tips for SIGNIFICANTLY reducing blackheads, along with some product recommendations (both inexpensive and some higher-end options).

Blackheads are…

Caused from excess oil, dead skin cells, and dirt that solidify in your hair follicles. I know most of you are thinking, “Huh, I thought they were in my pores?” Well technically, what most people refer to as pores are actually hair follicles that contain a tiny hair and a sebaceous gland which produces oil. But to make things easier I will just refer to the follicles as pores.

ANYWAYS, the gland produces excess oil and dead skin cells on the surface clog the pore. Blackheads are different from whiteheads because the pore is actually open. They turn black because the oil and dead skin cells oxygenate (whereas white heads are closed and not in contact with the air so they do not turn black.) Whiteheads/pimples/acne are also inflamed because they are caused by bacteria but blackheads are not.

Step 1: Wash your face twice a day!

This may seem so obvious to you but this means even if you don’t wear makeup you need to wash your face morning and night to remove dead skin cells and excess oil.

The type of cleanser you use is VERY important! If you have a lot of blackheads it is important you use something that is oil free. It is also important that you use a cleanser with exfoliating properties (once a day or every other day depending on your skin sensitivity) to get rid of that dead skin. A cleanser with glycolic acid or salicylic acid is probably your best bet! Here’s a few of my favorites:

Step 2: Kick it up a notch

If you’re reading this post then most likely you need something a little more powerful than just a cleanser. Try adding a toner to you’re regimen. One’s that have witch hazel and glycolic or salicylic acid are great for oily skin!

A few times a week you should also use an additional treatment on the areas you have blackheads. Most likely this is in your T-Zone or it may just be your chin and nose (if you’re like me ↟). I recommend using a clay mask or a charcoal mask to draw out excess oil. This will also minimize the appearance of your pores! If you have any dry areas you should avoid putting the mask there. This is my favorite charcoal mask (and pro tip just buy the travel size it will last a while!)

Step 3: Living Non-Comedogenic

It is important to make sure all the products you are using are non-comedogenic which means they don’t clog pores. Most of the time the product will advertise it is non-comedogenic but you can always ask the employee at Ulta or Sephora! Most importantly, make sure you check your moisturizer, foundation, and concealer.

If you follow these three steps, your blackheads should start to go away and the appearance of pores should minimize! But remember consistency is key and all skin reacts differently to products so pay attention to your skin’s reaction. If you are already doing all of these steps and still struggling with blackheads, seek the help of an esthetician! Getting a facial once a month can do wonders for your skin. If you have questions or ideas for my next post send me a message!