Concern - Blackheads

Blackheads form when excess oil, dead skin cells, and debris create a plug inside the pore. When this material is exposed to air, it oxidizes and darkens. It’s not dirt — it’s oxidized oil and buildup. Oily skin, inconsistent cleansing, pore-clogging ingredients, and dehydration can all contribute.

The most effective way to clear blackheads is to loosen and dissolve the clog—not scrub it away. AOS estheticians recommend combining:

• A gentle AHA cleanser to soften buildup
• Enzyme exfoliation to remove dead skin
• A pore-refining treatment like retinol or glycolic + salicylic blends

Your routine example:

Le Mieux Exfoliating Cleansing Gel → Dr. esthé Enzyme Powder Wash → Skin Script Glycolic & Retinol Pads

Yes, but only if done gently and correctly. You should never pick or squeeze with your nails. Use steam or a warm towel to soften the pore opening, wrap fingertips in gauze, and press lightly. Stop if it doesn’t release easily. Extracting inflamed or deep blackheads at home can cause scarring. Professional extractions are safest.

No. Physical scrubs only remove surface flakes and do not reach into the pore where the clog forms. Over-scrubbing can irritate the skin, increase oil production, and make blackheads worse. Enzymes and chemical exfoliants are far more effective and skin-friendly.

The most effective blackhead-preventing ingredients work by keeping the pore lining soft, exfoliated, and functioning properly. While salicylic acid (BHA) is commonly recommended for blackheads, it can be drying when used alone. When the skin becomes too dry, sebum hardens inside the pore, causing blackheads to get stuck and making extraction more difficult.

For best results, our estheticians recommend pairing:

• Salicylic Acid + Retinol – salicylic clears inside the pore while retinol normalizes cell turnover and keeps the pore lining soft so clogs can release.
• Enzymes – gently dissolve dead skin buildup without irritation.
• Niacinamide – supports oil regulation and barrier repair.
• Hydrating Ingredients – like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to maintain moisture balance (critical for keeping sebum from hardening).
• This balanced approach keeps pores clear without overdrying the skin, which is essential for successful blackhead prevention.

Yes. Blackheads can return because your pores continue to produce oil. The goal is management, not permanent removal. Consistency with gentle exfoliation, non-comedogenic products, and pore-clearing treatments is the key to keeping pores clear long-term.

A simple, effective AOS-approved routine is:

1. Cleanse: Le Mieux Exfoliating Cleansing Gel
2. Exfoliate: Dr. esthé Enzyme Powder Wash
3. Treat: Skin Script Glycolic & Retinol Pads

This combination softens buildup, dissolves dead skin, and clears sticky sebum inside the pore.

Avoid products containing pore-clogging ingredients like coconut oil, isopropyl myristate, heavy silicones, algae extract, or thick occlusives. Stick to acne-safe, non-comedogenic skincare to prevent future congestion.

Absolutely — dry or sensitive skin can still develop blackheads. In these skin types, congestion often forms because the pore lining isn’t shedding properly, not because of excess oil. Using strong acids or scrubs can irritate the skin and make the problem worse.

For gentle, effective blackhead care, our estheticians recommend the Epicutis Cleansing Essentials, which includes both a hydrophilic oil cleanser and a powder enzyme cleanser.

• The Epicutis Oil Cleanser melts down sebum, sunscreen, and debris inside the pore without stripping or irritating the skin.
• The Epicutis Enzyme Powder Cleanser uses gentle enzymes to remove dead skin cells and keep the pore clear—ideal for sensitive, reactive, or dry complexions.

This duo works synergistically to keep blackheads under control while supporting barrier health, hydration, and overall resilience.