How to get rid of blackheads

A blackhead is an open comedone: oil and shed skin cells collect inside a hair follicle, and the exposed material darkens when it meets air. It is not dirt that can be scrubbed away. Blackheads often appear on the nose, forehead, cheeks, or chin and may occur as part of Acne or Comedonal Acne. They can return because the follicle continues to produce oil and skin cells.

Wash with a mild, non-abrasive cleanser and lukewarm water. A salicylic-acid product may help loosen material within pores; introduce it gradually and stop if persistent burning or marked irritation develops. A topical retinoid can help keep follicles from becoming blocked, but it should be selected with a clinician if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or have very sensitive skin. Do not pick, scrape, use harsh pore strips, or press with nails, since trauma can cause inflammation and marks. Professional extraction may be useful when a trained clinician can assess the skin and use clean technique. Use a non-comedogenic moisturiser and broad-spectrum sunscreen so irritation and dark marks are less likely.

Arrange a review if blocked pores persist despite a careful routine, keep returning in large numbers, or occur with painful red spots, scarring, or spreading inflammation. Seek prompt care for rapidly worsening swelling, warmth, pus, or fever. A dermatologist can distinguish simple blackheads from another acne pattern and discuss options such as an Acne Extraction Facial, Topical Retinoids, or Isotretinoin Treatment when appropriate.

Which ingredient and strength suit my skin? Could these spots be Comedonal Acne? Should I avoid any product because of pregnancy, eczema, or irritation? Would supervised extraction or prescription treatment be safer for my pattern?