Terri opened up about her dating life following Steve’s death
Steve Irwin passed away 18 years ago, leaving behind his wife Terri and their two children, Robert and Bindi Irwin.
Over the years, the family have honoured Steve and his incredible contribution to conservation and zoology, and in a recent interview, Terri spoke about her late husband and the love she has for him.
She explained that she has no plans to date anybody else, and the reason why is pretty heart-wrenching.
“I totally got my happily ever after,” Terri told US Weekly earlier this year.
“And while there are a lot of wonderful men in the world, can you see another Steve Irwin? I just can’t. I’d be like, ‘I love that you’re a librarian and the Dewey Decimal System is cool, but I got to go jump a crocodile and do that.’ Forget that.
“I had the best marriage in the whole world for 14 years, and I’m very comfortable with the person I see in the mirror.
“So I’m okay to be on my own now. And I’m lonely for Steve, but I’m not a lonely person, so I’m very lucky.”
Steve said it was ‘love at first sight’ (Denise Truscello/WireImage)
Terri said that if Steve were here today he’d be ‘very proud’ of everything the family had achieved since his death.
“He would actually go [and] stare [into the fire],” she said.
“And [one day] he came in and he goes, ‘We have to have children. Who are we going to leave this all to? We have to have children.’ And I go, ‘Just because you have kids, doesn’t mean they’re going to be interested in what you’re doing.’
“And he goes, ‘No, we’re having children and they’re going to love wildlife and conservation.’”
Terri, Robert and Bindi have been continuing the conservation efforts (Albert L. Ortega/Getty Images)
Steve previously spoke about the moment he met Terri, explaining it was love at first sight.
He recalls spotting her in a crowd of people in the zoo, saying: “I looked up and our eyes met, and my heart just went ‘bang bang bang bang’, it just started thumping. It was love at first sight.”
Steve admitted that his description of the moment might sound like it came from a ‘love novel’, but continued: “It’s true!”
In her own recollection of the events, Terri admitted she was quickly ‘sold’ on Steve, too, saying: “I thought, ‘this man is the most incredible guy I’ve ever seen. He’s probably married, he’s got to be taken.'”
Of course, Steve wasn’t taken and the pair tied the knot in 1992.
Kaylee Muthart was left blind after ripping out her own eyes
A woman who ripped out her own eyes has recalled the events that led to inflicting the horrific act upon herself.
Kaylee Muthart excelled at school and was very much seen as a straight-A student when she dropped out of the education system at the age of 17.
Kaylee, from Anderson, South Carolina, thought a break from school would be good for her due to working long hours to save up for a car and problems with heart arrhythmia (an irregular heartbeat) taking its toll.
As told in Cosmopolitan, Kaylee said: “By age 18, I was drinking alcohol socially and smoking pot often, while working diligently at my part-time job. I suspected I was prone to addiction, since it ran in my family, so I actively avoided what I considered more serious drugs.”
Kaylee was a straight-A student prior to dropping out of school (Kaylee Muthart)
Continuing to smoke marijuana, at the age of 19 Kaylee experienced a ‘strange high’ she never previously felt after taking drugs with a pal.
“I’d long been a religious Christian; the high made me feel particularly close to God,” she said.
Kaylee believes to this day that the pot was likely mixed with either cocaine or meth, which made her distance herself from the individual she was smoking with.
The South Carolinian woman never ended up returning to school and her life started to rapidly decline following it – she had no job and her relationship with her boyfriend began to suffer, so she used drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism.
She then experienced a mental breakdown as a result of feeling ‘lonely’ and ‘unhappy’.
Kaylee started using drugs and soon became dependent upon them (Kaylee Muthart)
“I remembered the way I felt on the laced weed and sought that kind of peace again,” Kaylee told Cosmopolitan.
Kaylee began smoking stronger substances, and as such, hallucinations became a lot more intense.
She recalled: “While on ecstasy, I studied the Bible. I misinterpreted a lot of it. I convinced myself that meth would bring me even closer to God.”
After Thanksgiving 2017, Kaylee’s addiction became even more intense, despite trying to stop her habits ‘two or three times’.
Eventually, Kaylee agreed to go to rehab, but an incident before she arrived led to her ripping her own eyes out.
After being high from a session the night before, Kaylee feared ‘everyone would die, if I didn’t tear out my eyes immediately’. And Kaylee did just that, with the drugs numbing any pain.
Following a drug binge, Kaylee came to the conclusion that she’d die if she didn’t tear her eyes out (What’s Trending/YouTube)
Once at hospital, medical professionals performed emergency surgery to remove what was left of the eyes.
It was a long road to recovery, with her recalling: “I was in the hospital for a week, during which I suffered from bad headaches behind my eye sockets and particularly in my temples. They continued to crop up intermittently for about a month.
“I was offered hydrocodone for the pain but only took it once or twice — I really didn’t want to take anything besides Tylenol. I was determined to stay off drugs.”
Despite now being fully blind, Kaylee is feeling ‘optimistic’ about her future and would still like to become a marine biologist one day.
The internet responds to a low tipper who got charged for a larger tip than he intended to give at a restaurant
Tipping culture is one of the most highly debated and argued aspects of our current society, and one restaurant-goer found out the hard way just how much some people despise a low tipper.
While eating at a Thai restaurant and amassing a bill of $197.55, one Reddit user opted to be that low tipper, leaving a total of $13 as a tip following the meal.
This means the customer left merely a 6% tip on their bill before leaving the restaurant.
However, because of this low tip percentage, the Thai restaurant in question took matters into its own hands.
Tipping 6% at a dine-in restaurant is generally considered to be poor etiquette. (Getty Stock Photo)
In a now-deleted Reddit post, the user explained how he automatically got charged an additional $20 gratitude charge by the restaurant. This means the total of the user’s tip was upped to $33, a much more socially acceptable 16.7% tip for the meal he paid for.
The Redditor also revealed that, because of this unexpected upcharge, he contacted the restaurant and demanded that he be reimbursed the entire amount that he tipped, a condition that the Thai restaurant did eventually agree to, according to the customer.
However, that doesn’t mean the internet was quite as willing to let the low-tipping customer off the hook.
In fact, while many people agreed that the restaurant was wrong to adjust the tip, the Reddit post also received quite a lot of backlash due to the initial amount that the man had decided to tip the restaurant.
As was alluded to earlier, tipping around 15-20% of your dinner bill is generally perceived as the correct etiquette while dining at a restaurant, with 10% only being valid in the event of poor service at the restaurant.
Many people believe tipping culture in the United States is predatory and unnecessary. (Getty Stock Photo)
So, while few people outwardly defended the restaurant’s actions, it should come as no surprise that Redditors tore into the man for leaving a low 6% tip in the first place.
One commenter, for example, wrote: “$13 tip? … they probably had a hard time reading your scribbles and assumed it was actually an appropriate tip and not an insult … you should be ashamed of yourself, even more so airing this in public.”
Another shared a similar sentiment: “You’re a lousy tipper, but the restaurant shouldn’t have done that. What they should have done is given you s****y service the next time you come in.”
Ultimately, however, one Reddit user wrote a comment that stood out as the most catch-all response to the situation.
“Everyone sucks here,” the user explained, “The restaurant for trying to steal $20 from you, US tipping standards that subsidize low wages, and you for leaving a garbage tip and trying to f**k over a server who is not responsible for the US tipping standard.”
Megan Fox has spoke openly about her condition in the past
Fans of Megan Fox are just noticing the Transformers actor has a bizarre condition known as ‘murderer’s thumb’.
The 38-year-old is regarded as one of the best actors on the planet – starring in various successful projects over the years.
But with that success comes an awful lot of online trolls, and Fox hasn’t been afraid to shy away from these in the past.
While she is regarded as a sex symbol, Fox’s thumbs have also been a talking point among social media users for most of her career.
Speaking to Sports Illustrated for the 2023 swimsuit edition, she said: “I don’t know why people are so fascinated by my thumbs.
“Like, I never thought that was a weird thing or an embarrassing thing. They’re just kind of short. Is it really that crazy?”
Fox then went on to explain that her unique thumbs were down to brachydactyly, a genetic condition that causes someone’s fingers or toes to be shorter than average.
Megan Fox has a condition that impacts the way her thumbs look (Ken Ishii/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures Internationa)
There’s also a non-scientific term for the condition known as ‘murderer’s thumb’, though the condition provides some downsides aside from its freakish name.
Fox has spoken about in the past how the shorter-than-average fingers leads to some compelling significance in the practice of palm reading.
“It’s known in palmistry as a ‘murderer’s thumb’. Because they say the shorter this area from the knuckle to the tip of the finger is – especially the thumb – correlates to how short your temper is,” Fox added.
Fox very much doesn’t fall into this category however, with the actor stating ‘it takes a lot’ for her to ‘lose [her] temper’.
While many point out her thumbs, the model said she has way more interesting imperfections to speak about.
Megan Fox has spoke openly about her condition (Araya Doheny/Getty Images for Revolve)
She continued: “I think I have tons of other flaws that are way more interesting than my thumbs. I don’t know why people focus on that. I don’t know.”
Many have just noticed Fox has the condition, with one person penning on Twitter: “Thumb got transformed.”
Fox has previously admitted to having ‘a lot of deep insecurities’ after having an ‘awareness’ and ‘obsession’ with her body ever since she was little.
During a joint interview Machine Gun Kelly in 2021 for British GQ Style, Fox said: “Yeah, I have body dysmorphia. I have a lot of deep insecurities.
“We may look at somebody and think, ‘That person’s so beautiful. Their life must be so easy’. They most likely don’t feel that way about themselves.”
When managing breakouts, it’s key to know exactly what you’re dealing with. Whiteheads and blackheads can be stubborn, but you do have options. Ahead, discover exactly what blackheads and whiteheads are, how they form, how to manage them, and how best to care for your skin to help prevent these blemishes from cropping up.
Whiteheads vs. Blackheads: Causes, Tips, and More
Overview
Odds are that you’ve encountered at least one of two of the most common types of pimples: whiteheads and blackheads. These forms of congestion are very similar and are often fairly easy to identify because their names describe their appearance. However, if you’re wondering how to get rid of blackheads and whiteheads, you might be feeling stumped. Many are tempted to pick at their skin in the hopes of purging their pores, but that often makes the situation worse. Picking can cause blemishes to be more painful and more noticeable. In this guide, we break down better options for addressing blackheads and whiteheads.
Facts About Whiteheads and Blackheads
Fact #1: Though whiteheads and blackheads look different, they both form when a pore has been blocked.
Fact #2:Excess oil, dead skin cells, bacteria, and hormones can all play a role in the formation of blackheads and whiteheads. Stress, lifestyle choices, and certain beauty products may also contribute.
Fact #3: There are over-the-counter and prescription options that can help address them, including products with salicylic acid.
Fact #4: Making a few changes to your skincare routine can help prevent clogged pores.
Understanding Whiteheads vs. Blackheads
Whiteheads and blackheads are incredibly common—so much so that, according to the Cleveland Clinic some researchers suggest that nearly everyone is affected by these blemishes at one point or another in their lives.1,2 Interestingly enough, they’re also both formed by the same thing, a pore blockage. However, their appearance, contributing factors, and treatment options can differ.
What are whiteheads?
A whitehead is a type of blemish that manifests as a bump on the skin, also known as a comedone. They form when a pore is blocked by excess oil and dead skin cell buildup. Whiteheads are closed comedones, meaning “closed pore.” You can actually see the blockage within the pore underneath the skin, which looks like a white bump—hence the name. While they can form anywhere on the skin, they most frequently appear on the face (especially the nose, chin, and forehead), neck, back, chest, and upper arms.
What are blackheads?
Like whiteheads, blackheads are comedones, and form when a pore is blocked. However, blackheads look very different—almost like there is dirt stuck inside a pore. That’s because blackheads are open comedones, meaning the congestion has caused the opening of the pore to dilate, exposing the pore’s contents to the air. A chemical reaction between the air and the contents of the pore causes it to turn dark, which is why these blemishes are called “blackheads.” Blackheads can also form anywhere on the skin, but tend to pop up on the face, particularly the nose and chin, as well as the neck, back, and chest.
What Causes Whiteheads and Blackheads?
All pimples, including blackheads and whiteheads, ultimately are caused by the same thing: pore congestion. There are a variety of materials that can block the pore and lead to whiteheads and blackheads, and certain factors can also exacerbate these breakouts and make them worse.
Common causes
Excess oil production: Those with whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples tend to have skin that produces too much oil, or sebum. When excess oil mixes with dead skin cells, pores can become clogged. Those clogs can turn into blemishes, including whiteheads and blackheads.
Dead skin cells: As mentioned, the combination of dead skin cells with excess sebum can congest pores. The two blend together, creating a substance that plugs up the pore.
Bacteria: In some cases, bacteria, specifically Propionibacterium acnes, can contribute to the formation of blackheads and whiteheads. Because whiteheads are closed comedones, it is easier for bacteria to proliferate, which can make them more susceptible to inflammation.
Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels can cause your skin to produce excess oil, one of the primary causes of blackheads and whiteheads.
Contributing factors
Stress: When stress levels increase, pores can become even more clogged.
Lifestyle factors: According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), failure to get enough sleep can contribute to the formation of blemishes.3
Skincare, haircare, and cosmetic products: A variety of beauty products can lead to clogged pores. For example, haircare formulas like conditioner and styling pomades can trigger the formation of whiteheads. Ingredients in hair, makeup, and even skincare products can be comedogenic, meaning they can clog pores. This is why using formulas that are non-comedogenic is such an important aspect of promoting and maintaining clearer skin.
How To Manage Whiteheads and Blackheads
There are numerous simple, over-the-counter ways to target breakouts at home, as well as prescription options.
Keep in mind, if you’re dealing with stubborn whiteheads and blackheads, the best course of action is to see a dermatologist. They’ll be able to assess your unique skin concerns and create a customized plan to address your blemishes.
Below, we’re breaking down some of the different ways you can reduce the appearance of whiteheads and blackheads. But first, one thing not to do: Never attempt blackhead and whitehead removal at home. Picking your pimples can increase your risk of scarring.
Over-the-counter options
In many cases, you can help manage whiteheads and blackheads by using products you can buy at your local drugstore or supermarket. Certain active ingredients can be especially helpful in caring for blemish-prone skin.
Cleansers and exfoliators
One of the most effective ways to address whiteheads and blackheads is by combatting the excess oil and dead skin cells that so commonly cause them to form. Of course, face washes are designed to remove excess oil from the skin, while exfoliators slough away dead skin cells. Combining both into one step can make for a powerful solution. We suggest CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser, which contains salicylic acid, an ingredient recommended by the AAD for managing whiteheads and blackheads.4 The formula, which also contains kaolin clay, three essential ceramides, and niacinamide, helps improve the appearance of pores. It also features salicylic acid to clear acne and reduce blackheads.
Topical creams and gels
If you want a more targeted option, look for a spot treatment, cream, or gel. Rather than using it on your whole face, these products are applied solely to the areas where you’ve developed whiteheads and blackheads. However, be aware that some formulas in this category may leave the skin feeling stripped. We recommend CeraVe Acne Control Gel, which helps clear acne without drying out your skin.
CeraVe Tip: If your whiteheads and blackheads go away but leave dark spots in their wake, you can use a different kind of targeted formula to help reduce their appearance. CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum helps refine and resurface skin, reducing the appearance of post-acne marks and visible pores.
Prescription treatments
If your blackheads and whiteheads do not respond to products you’ve purchased over the counter, you may want to consider seeing your dermatologist for a prescription-strength option.
Retinoids
In addition to over-the-counter retinol products, you can get stronger versions from your doctor, like tretinoin and isotretinoin. They’re all from a class of ingredients known as retinoids. While some retinoids are gentler, some are extremely powerful and are only meant to be used to address severe acne. Talk to your dermatologist to see if a prescription-strength retinoid is right for you.
Antibiotics
In some cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics to address whiteheads, blackheads, and other forms of acne. Depending on the unique medication prescribed, antibiotics for whiteheads and blackheads can be applied topically or taken orally.
Hormonal treatments
Oral contraceptives have been shown to be effective in treating blackheads, whiteheads, and other blemishes. In fact, there are some oral contraceptive options that have been approved by the FDA to treat blemishes. However, not everyone should use oral contraceptives; talk to your healthcare provider to see if one of these medications is right for you.
Prevention Tips for Whiteheads and Blackheads
If you’re hoping to learn how to fix blackheads and whiteheads permanently, unfortunately, there’s no guarantee that you can get rid of them entirely. With that said, you can take steps to help prevent them and maintain clearer-looking skin.
Daily skincare routine
It’s time to start a consistent skincare routine and stick with it. Look for brands that are trusted by experts and offer products that feature active ingredients known to support the skin. All CeraVe products are developed with dermatologists using carefully-selected and science-backed ingredients. This includes CeraVe’s signature blend of ceramides, a type of lipid that naturally occurs in the skin. Low ceramide levels have been linked to a variety of skin conditions, including blemishes and skin congestion.
Though social media may have you thinking otherwise, your skincare routine doesn’t actually need to be complicated to work. Start by using a cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen, then add in any treatment products as needed. You can actually combine your moisturizing and sunscreen steps into one with a product like CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30, then use a richer moisturizer in the evening to nourish your skin while you sleep, such as CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion.
Proper cleansing techniques
Leaving excess oil, dead skin cells, and grime on the surface of your skin can all contribute to clogged pores. This makes cleansing essential if you want to promote visibly clearer, more even-looking skin. Try the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, which deeply cleanses and removes excess oil without disrupting the skin barrier.
Beyond simply using a cleanser, make sure you cleanse the correct way. You want to be gentle (no harsh scrubbing or rubbing) and use lukewarm water—hot water can dry out your skin.
Effective ingredients
Using products with the right ingredients can make all the difference. One effective ingredient that you’ll find in CeraVe formulas is niacinamide, a form of vitamin B. It can help with congested pores as studies show that it can help balance excess oiliness, which is one of the causes of blackheads and whiteheads.5 Additionally, niacinamide can help calm the appearance of redness (something often associated with blemish-prone skin).
Importance of non-comedogenic products
Remember how “comedone” means “clogged pore?” When you see the label “non-comedogenic” on a skincare product, that means that particular item won’t clog your pores. Looking for non-comedogenic products can be beneficial for everyone, but especially those with blemish-prone skin. If you aren’t sure where to start, all CeraVe acne products are non-comedogenic.
For help choosing the right products for your specific skin type and skin concerns, use our Find My Skincare Solution tool.
Luigi Mangione has been charged with the alleged murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson
Luigi Mangione has been seen yelling at reporters as he arrived at court after being charged with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
Thompson was fatally shot outside of the Hilton Hotel in Manhattan, New York on Wednesday (December 4).
Footage released by police showed the moment a person armed with a gun approached the UnitedHealthcare CEO from behind and began shooting before fleeing the scene.
New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch subsequently told reporters that authorities believed the attack was ‘premeditated, preplanned’ and ‘targeted’.
“Based on the evidence we have so far, it does appear the victim was specifically targeted. But at this point, we do not know why,” the NYPD Chief of Detectives, Joe Kenny, said.
Yesterday (December 9), officials announced that a person of interest had been detained after being spotted in a McDonalds in Altoona, Pennsylvania, following a tip-off from an employee at the fast-food joint.
After being brought in for questioning, Luigi Mangione, 26, has since been charged with the murder of Thompson, as well as possessing an unlicensed firearm, forgery, and providing false ID to cops.
Luigi Mangione was seen yelling at reporters (Jeff Swensen/Getty Images)
Mangione was taken to Blair County Courthouse, Pennsylvania, on Tuesday (December 10), where he was filmed shouting a message to reporters who were waiting outside.
“It’s completely out of touch and an insult to the intelligence of the American people. It’s lived experience,” he could be heard saying.
The suspect made the remarks as he was being led from a car into the court by numerous police officers, and he was then forced inside the building before being able to finish what he was saying.
Following his detainment yesterday, New York City Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner Jessica Tisch said: “The suspect was in a McDonald’s and was recognised by an employee who then called local police.
Mangione has been charged with murder (Jeff Swensen/Getty Images)
“Responding officers questioned the suspect, who was acting suspiciously and was carrying multiple fraudulent IDs, as well as a US passport.
“Upon further investigation, officers recovered a firearm on his person, as well as a suppressor, both consistent with the weapon used in the murder.
“They also recovered clothing, including a mask, consistent with those worn by our wanted individual.
“Additionally, officers recovered a handwritten document that speaks to both his motivation and mindset.”
According to Sky News, the suspect will be extradited to New York, of which he has contested, and has been denied bail.
Lynn and Ian Hunt were discovered passed away at their home in Cornwall, England in March earlier this year
Warning: This article contains discussion of suicide which some readers may find distressing
A ‘loving and devoted’ elderly couple who took their own lives together following a devastating diagnosis have been remembered by their family, with one saying they ‘respect’ the decision that was made.
In March earlier this year, Lynn and Ian Hunt were discovered passed away at their home in Cornwall, England.
Months before, the elderly couple – aged 77 and 81 – had received the heartbreaking news Lynn had a condition which would leave her with little more than a few years to live.
The couple were found at their home in Carnkie, Cornwall (Google Maps)
Lynn’s diagnosis
Lynn – who worked as a PA to the head of children services at the local council before retiring – was diagnosed with a degenerative motor neurone disease (MND).
Motor neurone disease ‘is an uncommon condition that affects the brain and nerves. It causes weakness that gets worse over time,’ the NHS states.
It explains: “There’s no cure for MND, but there are treatments to help reduce the impact it has on a person’s daily life. Some people live with the condition for many years. MND can significantly shorten life expectancy and, unfortunately, eventually leads to death.”
Lynn’s sister, Kerry Todd, said at an inquest hearing held on December 9 that Lynn was ‘scared of what the disease would do to her body,’ as quoted by Cornwall Live.
“She was terrified of how it would affect her and how it would affect Ian,” Todd continued. “She didn’t want to continue in that way. She told me she didn’t want any of the care package.”
The couple decided to go together (Getty Stock Images)
Lynn and Ian’s passing
On March 15, Lynn and Ian were discovered by firefighters in their home. Authorities initially thought the pair may have passed away as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning, but the elderly couple’s deaths were later ruled by a coroner as suicide from overdoses of medication.
A letter was also discovered at the property with instructions as to who should take care of the pair’s dog, as well as thanking all their loved ones and the medical professionals who took care of Lynn, as well as their wills.
Assistant coroner for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Guy Davies, said: “The evidence is that Lynn and Ian were a loving and devoted couple. Following a diagnosis of motor neurone disease, they clearly resolved not to be parted and took their own lives together. They did everything together and were a close couple in life and in death.”
And Kerry has since opened up further about the ‘huge shock’ at finding out her sister and brother-in-law had passed.
The pair reportedly left a letter addressing their loved ones (Getty Stock Images)
Kerry noted despite how awful the news of their passing was to receive, looking into Lynn’s condition, she ‘understand[s] what they did’.
“The fact they did it in secret without their family around with a bottle of Champagne is a great sadness, but I respect their choice,” she added.
Officer in the case, DC Victoria Swan, noted Lynn ‘knew what would happen in the near future to her body’.
She resolved: “Ian and Lynn did everything together. They were inseparable and lived for each other. They knew what the future would be like and didn’t want to live without each other so they decided to fall asleep together.”
If you or someone you know is struggling or in a mental health crisis, help is available through Mental Health America. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact The Compassionate Friends on (877) 969-0010.
If you get blackheads — a type of acne that happens when dead skin cells and oil clog your pores — you have plenty of methods to treat them. There are also ways to prevent new ones from forming.
But remember: Picking, squeezing, and popping blackheads aren’t among your options. That approach could make your situation a lot worse. Try some of these treatments instead.
Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is a popular over-the-counter ingredient in many skin cleansers. It breaks down dead skin cells and extra oil before they can clog your pores.
When you go to the pharmacy, check the ingredient labels carefully. You’ll find products with salicylic acid that range in strength from 0.5% to 5%. The acid can be harsh on some people’s skin. You might want to put it on every other day, rather than daily, to see how your skin reacts.
As for other acne-fighting ingredients, blackheads don’t contain bacteria, so benzoyl peroxide — a powerful antibacterial against most other forms of acne — may or may not help.
Retinoid creams and lotions
Retinoid creams and lotions, which are made from vitamin A, can unclog your pores. They also help your body make new skin cells.
You can buy some retinoids over the counter in drugstores, but you’ll need a prescription for most. Because retinoids make your skin more sensitive to UV rays, you should use these creams and lotions before bed and out of the sun.
Extraction
“Extraction” might sound scary, but many health professionals know how to remove unsightly blackheads with specialized tools.
You can find home extraction kits in stores. But most medical experts repeat that classic advice: “Don’t try this at home.” A DIY procedure can cause scarring, even if you think you know what you’re doing.
Chemical peels
A chemical peel is usually for people who want to improve the appearance of sun damage and minor scars, but it may help with certain types of acne. The procedure can unclog pores and start up new skin growth.
Common ingredients in chemical peel products are salicylic, glycolic, and retinoic acids. Because the process uses acid, it can cause redness, crusting, scarring, infection, and skin discoloration.
Skin brush
A skin brush can help get rid of the built-up debris that contributes to acne. It can also slow the signs of aging. You should always rehydrate your skin after using a skin brush.
There are many different skin brushes available to buy. Your dermatologist can tell you if using one may be right for you. They can also tell you what kind to use and how to use them correctly. If you don’t use them the way you should, it can make acne worse.
Blackhead Prevention
To prevent blackheads, try tips such as:
Wash your face when you get up, before bed, and after you sweat.
Put non-abrasive cleaners on your skin gently, using your fingertips. Scrubbing with washcloths or sponges can irritate the skin.
Also, some studies suggest certain foods can worsen acne. A few of the suspects are skim milk, chocolate, and carbohydrate-rich foods like bread and chips.
Blackhead Treatments to Avoid
Certain treatments won’t work for blackheads. You should avoid oil-based and alcohol-based cleaners.
If you have oily skin, products that have these ingredients can irritate your skin.
If you have normal skin, moisturizers that contain some light oil should be fine. If you have dry skin, oil-based moisturizers may help.
Megan Fox announced she’s expecting a baby with Machine Gun Kelly in a post to Instagram last month
Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly have reportedly split just weeks after announcing they were expecting their first child together and sources have suggested the reason why.
The Subservience star revealed that she was expecting a baby with the ‘Glass House’ singer in a post shared to Instagram last month.
However, reports have since come in that the pair have allegedly parted ways.
Fox took to Instagram on November 11 to share photographs of her and her bump, tagging Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) – real name Colson Baker – in the post and captioning the images: “Nothing is ever really lost. Welcome back.”
The couple first met on set of Midnight in the Switchgrass in 2020 and their relationship has hit headlines ever since – whether it be drinking each other’s blood or Fox’s engagement ring deliberately painful to take off.
The pair went public with their relationship in May 2020, with Fox starring in MGK’s music video for ‘Bloody Valentine’ and later spoke out about Kelly as being even more than just her ‘soul mate’ but a ‘twin flame’.
The pair got engaged in January 2022, but Fox revealed in March earlier this year that the engagement had been called off.
Megan Fox and MGK met in 2020 (Rich Fury/Getty Images for dcp)
On Alex Cooper’s Call Her Daddy podcast, Fox said: “I think that what I’ve learned from being in this relationship is that it’s not for public consumption.
“I think, as of now, I don’t have a comment on the status of the relationship, per se. What I can say is [he] is what I refer to as being my ‘twin soul’ and there will always be a tether to him, no matter what.”
However, it seemed the pair had reunited when they announced their pregnancy news last month.
Alas, despite Fox’s desire for her relationship not to be ‘public consumption,’ that unfortunately hasn’t stopped sources from coming forward to suggest the pair’s ‘twin flame’ may have since been extinguished more seriously.
Sources told TMZ that the pair split up after vacationing together in Vail, Colorado, offering an apparent explanation for the break-up too.
The pair reportedly got into issues while on vacation, according to sources (Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)
It’s reported that the couple were away together in celebration of Thanksgiving when issues supposedly arose.
Sources told the outlet that Fox had allegedly found ‘upsetting material’ on MGK’s phone and decided to leave the trip early.
The pair haven’t been seen together since, they further claim.
Big Blackheads: Causes, Removal, Treatment and Prevention
Blackheads are a type of acne. They can form when excess oils and dead skin cells build up and block a pore, creating a small sebum (oil) plug at the opening of the pore.1
When the plug pushes through the opening of the pore, the pore widens and becomes exposed to outside air. Once the buildup of dead skin cells and oils is exposed to the air, a chemical reaction occurs that makes the spot turn a dark color.2
Blackheads may also be referred to as open comedones.1 They are common, with the potential to affect people of various ages—from adolescents to adults.3
You might consider a blackhead a blemish to your complexion, but thankfully, they can be safely and effectively managed and prevented.3
What Do Blackheads Look Like?
This photo contains medical imagery.
AHMET YARALI / Getty Images
Blackheads appear on the skin as tiny, dark spots. The spot is typically 1-3 millimeters in diameter and can look gray, brown, or black. Blackheads may be flat or slightly raised.34 They tend to give skin a rough texture.5
You might initially mistake blackheads for dirt. If that’s the case and you try to scrub the “dirt” away, the look of the blackheads may worsen.6
What you likely won’t see is any sign of inflammation, such as redness and swelling. Unlike other types of acne such as papules (raised red bumps) or pustules (pus-filled acne lesions), blackheads are a non-inflammatory type of acne.4
In young adolescents, blackheads are commonly found on the nose, forehead, and chin. But they can appear anywhere on the face, as well as on the chest and back.31
What Causes Blackheads?
Blackheads are formed when the skin’s pores become plugged with oil and dead skin cells.6 When these oil plugs push through the openings of pores, the pores become exposed to outside air, causing a chemical reaction that leads to blackheads.3
A blackhead is one type of comedo, or acne bump. Comedones can be open or closed, based on whether the skin surface is disrupted. Since blackheads disrupt the skin surface, they are referred to as open comedones. A comedo that has it surface in tact is called a closed comedo, or a whitehead.5 Blackheads can form if whiteheads open up the pores.4
You might be more likely to get acne like blackheads if your parents had acne. You might also be more prone to blackheads and other types of acne if you have oiler skin. This can happen if you experience hormonal changes from factors like puberty or stress. Using greasy cosmetic and hair products, sweating a lot, and excessively touching your skin can also make your skin oiler.7
How To Get Rid of Blackheads
First, don’t touch, pop, or squeeze blackheads. This can worsen acne, cause an infection, or lead to permanent scarring.26
While they can be a nuisance to deal with, there are steps you can take to eliminate blackheads.6 This includes several at-home treatment options. You can also visit a healthcare provider such as a dermatologist—a medical doctor who specializes in conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails—for additional treatment options.8
To get rid of blackheads, start by washing your face twice daily with a medicated face wash formulated to treat acne. Look for a face wash containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.6 Benzoyl peroxide eliminates excess acne-causing bacteria, and salicylic acid unclogs blocked pores.69
Topical Acne Treatments
There are several acne treatments available over-the-counter (OTC) or by prescription that can help get rid of blackheads when applied directly to the skin once or twice per day. These include benzoyl peroxide (Benzoyl), azelaic acid (Finacea), and retinoids, which have all been shown to be effective at treating and preventing blackheads.10
Both benzoyl peroxide and azelaic acid kill acne-causing bacteria, while azelaic acid decreases excess production of keratin, a natural substance that can lead to acne when produced in excess.11
Prescription retinoids—skincare products derived from vitamin A—such as tretinoin cream, can help reduce oiliness, unclog pores, and increase skin cell turnover.6
Some treatments also include sulfur, which can break down blackheads.
These topical treatments can come in a variety of forms, including gels, lotions, creams, soaps, and pads.12
Extractions
Blackhead extraction is a manual method of removing blackheads. It is performed in a dermatologist’s office. When performed correctly, the extraction is a safe treatment that does not leave any scarring. Extractions are usually only recommended if OTC treatments have not been effective.13
During the procedure, the skin is lightly pierced with a needle or a surgical blade. Next, a comedone extractor is applied with light-to-medium pressure on top of the blackhead until the tool removes all the clogged dead skin cells and debris.13
Chemical Peels
Performed by a dermatologist, chemical peels are another in-office treatment. The procedure removes the skin’s outer layer to resurface the skin and enhance collagen production. The treatment uses high concentrations of beta-hydroxy acids like salicylic acid.13
While chemical peels are generally well-tolerated, there can be side effects such as mild discomfort, redness, irritation, or post-inflammatory lightening or darkening of skin following treatment.14
Because there are more mild acne treatments people can try first, chemical peels are considered a complementary treatment and are not often used as an initial treatment option for blackheads and other types of comedones.13
Editor’s Note: While some in-office treatments can pose risks like scarring or infection if performed improperly, the risks are greatly minimized if you see a board-certified dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment. These doctors have training and experience in skincare treatments and procedures, so they can properly assess your skin and determine the right treatment for your blackheads.8
How To Prevent Blackheads
To prevent blackheads from occurring or returning, there are a number of tips you can implement into your everyday routine at home. You can prevent blackheads by doing the following:615
Gently cleanse your skin regularly: Wash your face after sweating and up to two times per day. Use a gentle cleanser, and apply the cleanser with your fingertips. Avoid harsh scrubbing with washcloths, sponges, or other cleaning tools that can irritate the skin.
Shampoo your hair regularly: An excess of natural hair oils can cause acne on your forehead. To prevent this, shampoo your hair more often and tie your hair away from your face to help prevent blackheads and other types of acne from forming.
Use non-comedogenic skincare: Opt for skincare products that are labeled as “non-comedogenic.” This designation means these products are free of pore-clogging ingredients that can lead to acne.
Give your treatment time to work: Acne treatments need six to eight weeks to make a difference. Be patient and stay the course. If you don’t see improvement after this period of time, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. A dermatologist can recommend or prescribe other treatments, such as prescription-strength acne medication or extractions and microdermabrasion, if at-home treatments aren’t effective.
Keep your hands off your face: Don’t pop, pick, or squeeze your acne. Touching blackheads can worsen existing acne and extend the time it takes for them to heal. Squeezing acne can cause scarring, infection, or dark spots called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Be sun-safe:Use sunscreen or wear a hat when outside. It’s also advisable to avoid tanning beds, which can worsen acne. Some acne medications can also make the skin extra sensitive to skin-damaging ultraviolet rays from the sun and tanning beds.
A Quick Review
A blackhead is a small, tiny dark spot that forms on the skin when a pore become clogged with excess oils and dead skin cells. A blackhead appears dark—either gray, brown, or black—because of a chemical reaction that happens when the buildup of oil and dead skin cells pushes through the opening of a pore and is exposed to the air. Blackheads are more commonly seen on the face, chest, and back.
There are a number of methods you can use to treat blackheads, including medicated acne face washes and topical acne treatments such as retinoids and benzoyl peroxide. If you are having trouble getting rid of blackheads at home, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to discuss additional treatment options, such as a procedure like an extraction.
Blackheads can be a bother. Fortunately, there are some simple practices you can try at home to prevent blackheads from appearing in the first place, such as keeping your hands and hair off your face and cleaning your skin regularly.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Health-GettyImages-1307601679-1f528f3bb15c44da9ef336fd6c34cca4.jpg)