Blackheads are a common skin concern that many of us have experienced at some point. Blackheads are especially common among adolescents due to hormonal changes and increased oil production during puberty.
Blackheads are a type of acne (acne vulgaris). In clinical dermatology, blackheads are also called open comedones.
Despite trying various remedies—from scrubs to pore strips—there remains a lot of confusion about the best way to get rid of blackheads and prevent them from returning. Blackheads can affect individuals' self-esteem and social behavior, impacting their psychological well-being.
Many acne treatments are available at drugstores, grocery stores, and online without a prescription. While this makes treatment more accessible, the wide range of options can be confusing. Some products target acne-causing bacteria like P. acnes, but selecting the right one for your skin can be challenging without expert guidance.
At Art of Skincare, we take a science-based approach to treating blackheads, which begins with understanding what they actually are and why they form in the first place, as supported by clinical studies and expert opinions.
What Are Blackheads?
Blackheads are a specific type of clogged pore, medically referred to as open comedones. They develop when a small plug consisting of excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and dirt becomes trapped inside a hair follicle or pore. Over time, the oil and dead skin inside the pore oxidize due to exposure to air, which causes the dark appearance characteristic of blackheads. The dark spots on blackheads are caused by an irregular light reflection off the clogged follicle. Unlike whiteheads, which are closed comedones covered by a layer of skin, blackheads have an open surface that allows the contents to darken and become visible on the skin’s surface.
Blackheads appear as small bumps with a dark or black surface due to oxidation.
The formation of blackheads is closely linked to oil production. When the skin produces excess oil, it combines with dead skin cells and other debris, clogging the pores and creating the perfect environment for blackheads to develop. These clogged pores can occur on various parts of the face, particularly the nose, cheeks, and neck, where oil production tends to be higher. Your face, neck, back, and chest are most likely to develop blackheads.
Causes of Blackheads
Blackheads form when a combination of excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and other debris clog pores and hair follicles on the skin. As oil production increases—whether due to hormones, genetics, or environmental factors—more sebum is released onto the skin’s surface. When this oil mixes with dead skin cells, it can create a small plug inside the opening of a pore or hair follicle. If the top layer of this plug remains open to the air, it oxidizes and darkens, resulting in a blackhead. If the plug is covered by a thin layer of skin, it forms a whitehead instead.
It’s a common misconception that blackheads are caused by dirt; in reality, they develop from the buildup of dead skin and oil within the pores. This buildup can clog pores and trigger inflammation, sometimes leading to the development of acne or painful pimples. Researchers have found that using products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can help treat blackheads by breaking down excess oil and dead skin cells, making it easier to reduce blackheads and prevent new ones from forming. Over-the-counter treatments and prescription medications are available to target clogged pores and minimize the risk of scarring or further irritation.
To prevent blackheads, estheticians and dermatologists recommend selecting non-comedogenic acne-safe skincare and makeup products that won’t clog pores, and avoiding behaviors or products that can irritate the skin.
If blackheads persist or become inflamed, an esthetician or dermatologist can recommend the best treatment plan to clear pores, reduce inflammation, and protect your skin from long-term damage. By understanding the true causes of blackheads, you can take proactive steps to keep your skin clear and healthy.
Do Scrubs Help Clear Blackheads?
A common myth about blackhead treatment is that scrubbing the skin with physical exfoliants or abrasive scrubs can effectively clear them. However, scrubs only exfoliate the top layers of the skin’s surface and do not reach deep enough to dissolve the oil and dead skin cells trapped inside the pores. Since blackheads are embedded deep within the hair follicles, scrubbing fails to remove the actual clog. Additionally, keratin combines with oil to block the follicle and form a comedo, further complicating the removal process. Blackheads are best treated with targeted skincare routines, such as topical creams containing salicylic acid or tretinoin, rather than harsh scrubs.
Moreover, over-scrubbing can actually worsen blackheads by irritating the skin. This irritation can trigger inflammation and increase oil production, which may lead to more clogged pores and even the development of inflamed acne or pimples. Therefore, while gentle exfoliation can support healthy skin, relying on scrubs alone to treat blackheads is ineffective and potentially harmful.
The Best Way to Clear Blackheads: A Step-by-Step Routine
To truly treat blackheads and prevent their recurrence, a thoughtful, multi-step skincare routine is essential. This routine focuses on loosening debris inside the pores, exfoliating dead skin and surface oil, and regulating cellular turnover.
Professional treatments like microdermabrasion use a special instrument to sand the top layers of skin, effectively removing clogs such as blackheads and promoting a smoother complexion. Light beams, such as those used in laser or light therapy, can also target excess oil and bacteria to treat blackheads while preserving the skin's surface.
After using retinol, estheticians or dermatologists may use gentle pressure with a tool to extract blackheads during clinical procedures, in addition to retinol and exfoliating pads. While prescription treatments containing tretinoin can be effective, they are often too harsh for preventing and treating blackheads, causing excess dryness and irritation.
Step 1: First Cleanse – Loosen the Cement in Your Pores
Begin with a pore-clearing alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) cleanser. AHAs, such as glycolic acid, work by dissolving the "glue" that holds dead skin cells and excess oil together inside clogged pores. This helps to break down the buildup and prepares the skin for deeper cleansing.
For normal to oily skin, a refreshing gel cleanser with alpha and beta acids can clear congestion effectively. For those with normal to dry skin, a creamy glycolic acid cleanser provides exfoliation while maintaining hydration.
Step 2: Second Cleanse – Enzyme Exfoliation to Remove Debris
Following the AHA cleanse, use an enzyme cleanser to further remove dead skin cells and loosened debris. Enzymes act like natural "Pac-Men," digesting dead skin without stripping the skin’s natural oils or causing irritation. This step ensures that the pores are thoroughly cleansed, helping to reduce the buildup that leads to blackheads.
Enzyme cleansers are suitable for all skin types, offering a gentle yet effective way to clear pores and maintain healthy skin.
Step 3: Deep Pore Clearing – Use a Retinol Treatment
The most effective way to prevent blackheads from forming and to clear existing ones is through the use of retinol. Retinol, a vitamin A derivative, increases cellular turnover, which means it encourages the skin to shed dead layers more quickly and keeps pores clear. It also thins out the sticky sebum that can clog follicles.
Products that combine retinol with salicylic acid—a beta-hydroxy acid known for its ability to penetrate and exfoliate inside pores—are especially beneficial for oily, breakout-prone skin.
For those with drier skin, gentler retinol formulations smooth and refine the skin without causing excessive dryness or irritation.
Convenient exfoliating pads that combine glycolic acid and retinol offer double-duty pore clearing for all skin types.
Bonus Tips for Blackhead-Free Skin
Maintaining blackhead-free skin requires consistent care beyond cleansing and exfoliation. Wearing SPF daily is crucial because UV damage weakens the skin’s surface and pores, making them more susceptible to clogging. Additionally, patience and regular application of treatments are key, as reducing blackheads takes time and dedication.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blackheads
What causes blackheads?
Blackheads form when excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and other debris accumulate within the pores. When the opening of a pore remains exposed to air, the trapped material oxidizes and darkens—creating what we see as a blackhead. It’s a myth that blackheads are caused by dirt or poor hygiene. They’re really the result of an internal imbalance in oil production, combined with sluggish skin cell turnover. Hormones, stress, and comedogenic products can all play a role in how often they appear.
What causes blackheads on the nose?
The nose is a blackhead hotspot because it naturally produces more oil than other areas of the face. The increased oil production, combined with dead skin cells, leads to clogged pores in this area. Following a targeted skincare routine can help keep the nose clear.
How can I get rid of blackheads?
The most effective way to clear blackheads is through consistent exfoliation and cellular renewal—not squeezing or scrubbing. Start with an exfoliating cleanser containing alpha or beta hydroxy acids to loosen the buildup inside pores, then follow with a retinol serum to encourage natural turnover and keep the pores from becoming congested again. Professional treatments such as enzyme facials, extractions, or light therapy can help accelerate results. At Art of Skin Care, we focus on gentle but effective methods that respect the skin barrier while restoring clarity.
Can you permanently get rid of blackheads?
Unfortunately, no one can permanently eliminate blackheads because oil production and dead skin accumulation are part of your skin’s natural function. However, you can dramatically reduce their appearance and prevent recurrence by maintaining a consistent, acne-safe skincare routine that includes exfoliation, hydration, and retinol. Think of blackhead prevention as ongoing maintenance—like brushing your teeth for your skin.
Are blackheads just dirt in my pores?
No. This is one of the most common misconceptions! The dark color of a blackhead isn’t dirt—it’s the result of oxidation. When the mixture of oil and dead skin is exposed to air, it reacts with oxygen and turns dark. So even the cleanest skin can have blackheads if the pores are prone to congestion. Regular exfoliation and proper cleansing help prevent this buildup.
Why do I still get blackheads even though I wash my face?
Cleansing is essential, but it’s only one part of the equation. Blackheads often persist because cleansing alone can’t fully remove the oil and dead skin trapped deep inside pores. You need ingredients that dissolve the “cement” holding these clogs together—like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or enzymes. If you’re using heavy moisturizers, makeup, or sunscreens that aren’t labeled non-comedogenic, they can also contribute to recurring blackheads.
Where on the body do blackheads appear?
While the nose and chin are the most common spots, blackheads can appear anywhere that oil glands are active—such as the cheeks, back, shoulders, chest, and even the neck. These areas have more sebaceous (oil) glands, making them more prone to clogged pores. A consistent exfoliation routine and the use of non-comedogenic products help prevent blackheads in all these areas.
What treatments or products work best for stubborn blackheads?
For deeply embedded blackheads, a combination approach works best:
Salicylic acid (a beta-hydroxy acid) to penetrate and clear inside pores.
Retinol or retinaldehyde to increase cellular turnover and reduce sticky sebum.
Enzyme exfoliants to digest dead skin without irritation.
Professional treatments such as microdermabrasion, chemical peels, or enzyme facials.
Our AOS estheticians often recommend layering these treatments strategically, depending on your skin type and tolerance.
Can blackheads be prevented?
Yes, absolutely—with consistency. Prevention starts with using acne-safe, non-comedogenic skincare and makeup. Cleanse daily with a gentle but effective cleanser, exfoliate a few times a week, and include a retinol or salicylic acid treatment in your evening routine. Avoid picking, over-scrubbing, and heavy occlusive products. And never underestimate the role of sunscreen—UV damage weakens the pore walls, making them more likely to clog.
Are pore strips safe?
Pore strips only remove surface debris and do not address the root causes of blackheads. They can also cause irritation, especially for sensitive skin, and may lead to inflammation if used excessively.
Do diet and lifestyle affect blackheads?
They can. While food isn’t the direct cause of blackheads, certain habits can influence oil production and inflammation. Diets high in sugar and dairy may worsen congestion for some individuals, while stress can trigger hormonal fluctuations that increase sebum output. Supporting your skin with a balanced diet, hydration, exercise, and proper sleep can all contribute to clearer pores.
What’s the difference between blackheads, whiteheads, and sebaceous filaments?
Blackheads are open comedones exposed to air, which causes oxidation and darkening.
Whiteheads are closed comedones, where the top of the pore remains sealed under a thin layer of skin.
Sebaceous filaments are natural structures in the skin that help move oil to the surface—they’re not true acne lesions. They appear as tiny, uniform dots and can’t be “removed,” though exfoliation can make them less noticeable.
Understanding this distinction helps you choose the right treatments and avoid unnecessary irritation.
The Takeaway
The best way to clear blackheads is not through harsh scrubs or quick fixes but through a science-backed skincare routine that targets the root causes. This routine should focus on loosening debris inside the pores, exfoliating dead skin and surface oil, and using retinol to regulate cellular turnover and keep pores clear. By following these steps, you can effectively reduce blackheads and enjoy healthier, clearer skin.
Need personalized guidance? My team of licensed estheticians is here to help. Whether you want to treat milia, build a milia-safe routine, or fine-tune your current one, we’re just a free skincare checkup away.
Need Personalized Blackhead Advice?
Since every skin type is unique, the ideal blackhead-clearing routine can vary. Our Acne-Certified Estheticians are available to help create a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific skin needs.
Author
Jeana LeClerc
Jeana LeClerc is a licensed esthetician, Certified Acne Specialist, and the founder and CEO of Art of Skincare . With over 20 years of hands-on experience in the skincare industry, Jeana specializes in regenerative skincare —a powerful, holistic alternative to conventional anti-aging treatments.
Rejecting the pressure of injectables and invasive procedures, Jeana champions science-backed, skin-nourishing solutions that support healthy, youthful skin from the inside out. Her mission is to help clients achieve lasting skin transformation through personalized routines, professional-grade products, and a deep understanding of how the skin functions and regenerates.
At Art of Skincare, Jeana leads a team of expert estheticians dedicated to delivering results-driven skincare, from clearing acne to supporting healthy aging . Her blog and online consultations are trusted resources for those seeking radiant, resilient skin without compromise.
