Products for blackheads: what to know

Blackheads are open comedones: oil and dead skin cells collect in a follicle, and the exposed material darkens when it contacts air. This colour is not dirt. Blackheads commonly occur on the nose, forehead, chin, chest, or back and can form part of acne or comedonal acne. A product cannot permanently prevent new blockages, and scrubbing, squeezing, or pore strips may irritate skin without addressing follicle plugging.

Wash with a gentle cleanser, then introduce one pore-clearing product at a time. Topical retinoids help keep dead skin cells from building up inside follicles; follow the product directions and use moisturiser and daytime sun protection. Improvement takes consistent use, and dryness or irritation can occur. Avoid layering several harsh exfoliants or applying treatment to broken skin. An acne extraction facial may remove selected comedones when performed hygienically. More extensive acne may need a dermatologist to consider isotretinoin treatment.

Book an assessment if blackheads persist despite a gentle routine, keep returning in large numbers, or occur with painful lumps, pus, scarring, or significant distress. Seek care for a sudden widespread eruption or a rash that burns, swells, or spreads after a product. Mention pregnancy, plans for pregnancy, or breastfeeding before starting a retinoid.

Are these blackheads, another type of acne, or a different bump? Which ingredient should I start with, and how often? How can I prevent irritation? Would extraction or prescription treatment be appropriate?