Professional Treatments for Ear Blackhead Removal (Video)

July 28, 2025July 28, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

Professional Treatments for Ear Blackhead Removal (Video) Below!

Blackheads inside the ear are a common skin issue caused by clogged pores due to excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. They can appear as flat, dark spots within the ear canal or behind the ear. While not typically painful, blackheads can sometimes become inflamed, leading to pimples.

Causes:

Excess Oil Production: Overactive oil glands (sebaceous glands) can produce too much sebum, which combines with dead skin cells and can clog pores.
Clogged Pores: Dead skin cells and other debris can accumulate in the ear canal, blocking pores and trapping oil.
Bacteria: Bacteria can contribute to inflammation and the formation of pimples within the ear.
Earwax Buildup: Excessive earwax can trap debris and contribute to clogged pores.
Ear Hygiene: Poor ear hygiene, including infrequent cleaning, and the use of dirty earbuds or headphones, can worsen the problem.
Haircare Products: Certain hair products can clog pores in and around the ear.

Treatment:

Gentle Cleansing:

Regularly clean the outer ear with a washcloth and avoid using cotton swabs or other objects to clean inside the ear canal.
Exfoliation:

Use a gentle exfoliating scrub designed for the face to help remove dead skin cells and debris.
Over-the-counter Treatments:

Consider using products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to help unclog pores and reduce inflammation.
Professional Removal:

If home treatments are ineffective or the blackheads are severe, consult a dermatologist for professional extraction or treatment.
Avoid Picking or Squeezing:

Avoid picking or squeezing blackheads, as this can cause infection and scarring.

Prevention:

Regular Ear Cleaning:

Clean your ears regularly, but avoid over-cleaning or inserting objects into the ear canal.
Clean Earbuds and Headphones:

Regularly clean your earbuds and headphones to prevent the buildup of bacteria and debris.
Be Mindful of Haircare Products:

If you use hair products, be aware of how they might interact with your skin and clean your ears thoroughly.
Avoid Touching Ears:

Try to avoid touching or picking at your ears, as this can introduce bacteria and debris.

How to Get Rid of Blackheads in Your Ear

Blackheads are small pesk clusters of black dots clogging your pores. The dark material that makes up a blackhead isn’t dirt but a mixture of dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. Exposure to air is what causes them to oxidize and darken in color.

You’ve probably experienced blackheads on your face, nose, or chin at one time or another. Did you know you can get blackheads inside your ears too? Although Bioré products are designed for powerful blackhead removal and prevention on your face, we didn’t want to leave your ears out in the cold! Use this article to figure out what’s causing blackheads in your ears and how to get rid of them.

What Causes Blackheads in Your Ears?

Blackheads are non-inflammatory acne lesions caused by dead skin cells and oil that get trapped inside your pores. Ears are surprisingly vulnerable to developing blackheads because the skin inside the ear canal is covered with hundreds of tiny hair follicles and glands that produce oil and earwax. If these glands produce too much oil, your skin breaks out and you’re stuck with unsightly acne and blackheads. The shape of your ears is also prone to allowing bacteria and oil to build up, which can cause blackheads.

Ears are surprisingly vulnerable to developing blackheads because the skin inside the ear canal is covered with hundreds of tiny hair follicles and glands that produce oil and earwax.

Here are a some things could be inviting these annoying imperfections into your ears:

Residual Earwax and Grime on Your Earbuds or Headphones
Dirt and Bacteria on Your Pillowcase
Oil and Bacteria from Your Cell Phone
Touching Your Ears

Girl looking frustrated in a mirror because of blackheads

How to Get Rid of Blackheads in Ears

Ear blackheads happen, but don’t worry, you can kick them to the curb with this easy step-by-step guide:

Find a cleanser with Salicylic Acid. This acne-fighting ingredient acts as an exfoliant to dissolve excess oil and dead skin cells on your skin. Salicylic acid penetrates deep into pores and deep-cleans, and you can find it in cleansers, toners, and more.
Use a cotton ball to carefully clean the skin on your ears. Take a clean cotton ball and saturate it with your salicylic acid cleanser. Gently rub your ears with the cotton ball, focusing on the area with blackheads. To keep the cleanser from dripping, tilt your ear to the side being careful not to let the solution enter your inner ear. Let it soak for about 10 seconds (or follow the instructions on the package).
Thoroughly rinse off the cleanser with a clean cotton ball. The skin on your ears is sensitive. So, you might need to take time to build up a tolerance to salicylic cleanser. Be sure to rinse thoroughly after each application. To gently remove the cleanser, take a second clean cotton ball, saturate it with warm water, and rinse your ear to neutralize the cleanser.
Cleanse your skin daily. For best results, repeat these steps once or twice daily. After about a week, you may start to notice a reduction in the size and number of blackheads in your ears.

Use a deep-cleaning clay mask

For extra cleansing, try a nutrient-rich, deep cleaning clay mask. These masks gently draw out impurities by absorbing excess oil that can cause blackheads.

Try a facial cleanser

Facial cleansers often contain salicylic acid and may be used as an alternative to glycolic acid, which can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Salicylic acid is a blackhead’s worst nightmare. It exfoliates inside pores to help loosen clogs and allow the body’s natural oils to flow more freely.

Apply witch hazel toner

For ear blackheads, look for a witch hazel toner to cleanse and disinfect the skin around your ears. Witch hazel is a common ingredient in cleansers, toners, and even pore strips due to its powerful disinfecting properties! Apply toner to the skin around your ears to control oil and deep clean your pores.
Girl with a face mask in the mirror treating blackheads

For ear blackheads, look for a witch hazel toner to cleanse and disinfect the skin around your ears. Witch hazel is a common ingredient in cleansers, toners, and even pore strips due to its powerful disinfecting properties!

Professional Treatments for Ear Blackhead Removal

For severe cases of blackheads in your ears, it may be time to call in the professionals. An extraction procedure is relatively simple and non-invasive. A dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon uses a blackhead extractor tool to remove the build-up trapped under your skin in your ear. This is a unique tool designed to remove toxins from the surface of your skin without causing significant damage.

How to Prevent Ear Blackheads

The best way to prevent future blackheads is to keep your ears clean and free of excess oil. Here are a few tips for keeping your ears squeaky clean and blackhead free:

Exfoliate regularly. It will be a little different from exfoliating your face as physical exfoliants like facial scrubs should not be used in your ears. Instead, take a dry washcloth and gently rub your outer ear to slough off dead skin cells and prevent blackheads.
Wash your ears daily with a clean, warm washcloth and mild salicylic cleanser.
If you have long hair and don’t wash it every day, use a dry shampoo to keep oils from transferring into the ears.
Keep unwashed hair tied back to prevent excess oil from getting into your ears.
Stop touching your ears throughout the day to avoid triggering a breakout.
Wash anything and everything that touches your ears, like earbuds, cell phones, fingers, pillowcases, etc. Oil and earwax cling to objects like earbuds, so clean them off at least once a week and avoid wearing them for long periods of time.
Wash your pillowcase at least once a week to avoid a build-up of bacteria and impurities. These nasties can transfer back onto your skin overnight and cause irritation and acne.
Only use lotions and sunscreens that are specially formulated not to clog pores.
Don’t pick at or squeeze the blackheads in your ears, this can lead to inflammation, bleeding, infection, and scarring.
Don’t apply acne products more than recommended, this can overdry your skin, lead to an overproduction of oil, and may actually make your acne and blackheads worse.
When applying sunscreen or lotion to your ears, use noncomedogenic products. These types of products are specially formulated to avoid clogging pores

Key Takeaways

Blackheads are annoying, but you don’t have to live with them!
Clean ears once or twice daily with salicylic acid to loosen clogged pores. Using witch hazel or glycolic acid toners can help remove dead skin buildup.
Sanitize anything that touches your ears like earbuds, pillowcases and cell phone every few days to avoid a build-up of bacteria, oils, grit, and grime.
Say ‘no!’ to picking and popping blackheads in your ears, which can lead to inflammation, bleeding, infection and scarring.
If you have severe blackheads in your ears, talk to your dermatologist about prescription medication or professional extractions.

Blackheads

Blackheads: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments (Video)

July 27, 2025July 27, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

Blackheads, a mild form of acne, are caused by clogged hair follicles due to a buildup of dead skin cells and excess oil (sebum). They appear as small, dark bumps on the skin. Effective treatments include over-the-counter products containing salicylic acid or retinoids, regular exfoliation, and, in some cases, professional extraction or laser treatments for stubborn cases.

Causes of Blackheads:

Excess Oil Production:Overactive sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, contributing to clogged pores.
Dead Skin Cell Buildup:Dead skin cells don’t shed properly and accumulate in hair follicles.
Clogged Follicles:When these two factors combine, they form a plug within the hair follicle.
Oxidation:When the plug is exposed to air, it oxidizes and turns black, resulting in the characteristic appearance of blackheads.
Hormonal Changes:Fluctuations in hormones, especially during puberty, can increase oil production.
Certain Medications:Some medications can increase oil production as a side effect.
Genetics:Some individuals may be predisposed to more oily skin and therefore more prone to blackheads.

1. Topical Treatments:

Salicylic Acid:

A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that exfoliates the skin and helps unclog pores. Look for cleansers, toners, or serums containing salicylic acid.
Retinoids (Vitamin A Derivatives):

These help increase skin cell turnover, preventing dead skin cells from clogging pores. They can be found in both over-the-counter and prescription strengths.
Benzoyl Peroxide:

Helps reduce bacteria and excess oil on the skin. Often used in conjunction with retinoids.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs):

Glycolic acid and lactic acid are examples of AHAs that can exfoliate the skin and improve blackheads.

2. Exfoliation:

Physical Exfoliation:Using scrubs or cleansing brushes to remove dead skin cells. However, be gentle to avoid irritation.
Chemical Exfoliation:Using acids like salicylic acid or AHAs to dissolve dead skin cells.

3. Professional Treatments:

Extraction:

A dermatologist or aesthetician can safely extract blackheads using sterilized tools.
Chemical Peels:

A stronger chemical peel can remove layers of skin and unclog pores.
Laser Treatment:

Lasers can target and reduce the oil production that contributes to blackheads.
Microdermabrasion:

A dermatologist uses a specialized tool to “sand” the skin, removing the top layers and freeing clogs.
Isolaz:

A vacuum suction and light therapy treatment that extracts congestion and kills bacteria.

4. Prevention:

Wash your face twice daily:Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser.
Use non-comedogenic products:Choose makeup and skincare products that won’t clog pores.
Avoid picking or squeezing:This can cause inflammation and scarring.
Consider a clay mask:Bentonite clay masks can help absorb excess oil.
Maintain a healthy diet:Limit processed foods and focus on fruits and vegetables.
Manage stress:Stress can contribute to oil production.
Protect your skin from the sun:Use oil-free sunscreen daily.

Blackhead treatment and removalWhen it comes to getting rid of blackheads, salicylic acid is your best friend. This gentle exfoliating acid will unclog your pores and also deal with the problem of dead cell build up by promoting healthy skin-cell turnover.

Blackheads

12 Ways to Get Rid of Blackheads

July 23, 2025July 23, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

12 Ways to Get Rid of Blackheads

Many over-the-counter skin care products target blackheads, including products containing salicylic acid. Certain practices, such as daily facial cleansing and removing makeup, may also help remove and prevent blackheads.

What you can do

Blackheads are one of the most common forms of acne. Although people who have oily skin are more vulnerable to blackheads, anyone can get them.

They form when pores become clogged with a combination of dead skin cells and excess oil (sebum) from your sebaceous glands.

Unlike whiteheads, which create closed pores, blackheads have open surfaces, which creates an oxidation that’s dark in color.

It may be tempting to try to pinch or push the black plug out, but this can cause unnecessary scarring and other damage to your skin.

“The good news is that there is a cornucopia of over-the-counter products that contain effective ingredients to exfoliate, soften, and even remove blackheads,” says Allison Britt Kimmins, MD, MPH.

Keep reading to learn how to:

get rid of your blackheads
prevent future ones from forming
take better overall care of your skin

1. Cleanse with salicylic acid

Instead of benzoyl peroxide, look for over-the-counter (OTC) products that contain salicylic acid.

Salicylic acid is the preferred ingredient for treating blackheads and whiteheads because it breaks down the materials that clog pores:

excess oil
dead skin cells

By choosing a daily cleanser with salicylic acid, you can remove these elements in addition to:

daily dirt
oil
makeup

Although you still need to wash your face twice a day, try using a cleanser that has salicylic acid in it just once a day to start. Britt Kimmins notes that salicylic acid is especially good for those with dry skin.

You may consider using it at night only and then using your regular cleanser in the morning. As your skin gets used to the product, you may choose to use it both morning and night.

Many people are sensitive to salicylic acid. You may not be able to use it more than once every few days. If you continue to react to it, discontinue use.

Find cleansers online:

Murad Time Release Active Cleanser

Details: Murad helps clear blemishes and purify skin without overdrying. It provides a sustained release of salicylic acid for continuous acne treatment, even after it’s been rinsed off.
Cost: $$

Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser

Details: This medicated gel cleanser contains 2 percent salicylic acid. The formula helps target excess oil and helps clear up acne breakouts.
Cost: $

Dermalogica Clearing Skin Wash

Details: Dermalogica helps clear skin and reduce visible signs of skin aging. The formula contains extracts of balm mint, eucalyptus, and tea tree, while menthol and camphor help cool the skin.
Cost: $$

2. Gently exfoliate with AHAs and BHAs

In the past, you may have heard that exfoliating produces a negative effect on acne. This can be true for inflammatory acne, as the process can cause further redness and irritation.

For blackheads, though, regular exfoliation can help remove excessive amounts of dead skin cells that can lead to clogged pores. The process may also gently remove existing blackheads.

Rather than looking for harsh scrubs, you’ll want to focus on alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs). Glycolic acid is the most common type of AHA, and salicylic acid is a prominent BHA.

Both work by removing the top layer of your skin. In theory, this can improve the appearance of wrinkles and age spots, all while cleansing pores and making your skin softer.

You’ll find that BHAs are more widely available on the market, and in some cases, they’re more affordable too!

“Both AHAs and BHAs are excellent as superficial peels, says Britt Kimmins. “AHAs and BHAs …treat the superficial layer of skin and therefore are safe for OTC use in all skin types.”

Find exfoliating products online:

First Aid Beauty’s FAB Skin Lab Resurfacing Liquid AHA 10%

Details: FAB Skin Lab was designed with sensitive skin in mind. Powered by a 10 percent concentration of 4 alpha-hydroxy acids, it helps smooth, brighten, and even out the appearance of rough, dull-looking skin.
Cost: $$

Clean and Clear Triple Cleanse Exfoliating Scrub

Details: This daily acne face scrub fights breakouts by removing oil from the skin and gently exfoliating, treating acne while also soothing the skin.
Cost: $

3. Pick up a skin brush

A skin brush can provide similar exfoliating benefits as AHAs and BHAs by removing excess dead skin cells.

Susan Massick, MD, dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center advises caution.

She recommends that skin brushes only be used occasionally with a gentle cleansing wash and to avoid the use of a brush altogether if you have sensitive skin.

Depending on your needs and budget, there are a variety of skin brushes available to be used with your daily cleanser.

Find skin brushes online:

Clarisonic

Details: Clarisonic is an anti-aging and cleansing device designed to gently exfoliate, minimize the appearance of pores, firm skin, reduce under-eye puffiness, and blend foundation.
Cost: $$$

Hand-Held Brush

Details: Hand-Held Brush is made of 100% natural silicone, which is soft enough for sensitive, delicate, or dry skin. This facial scrubber cleans and exfoliates the skin to open pores and gently remove impurities and dead skin.
Cost: $

4. Try topical retinoids

Retinoids may be useful for stubborn cases of acne by helping to unplug pores. This process can also make other OTC products more effective by helping them to be better able to enter the follicle.

But if you’ve got dry skin, Britt Kimmins recommends avoiding strong exfoliants, like retinoids, altogether.

Shop for the following retinoids online:

ProActiv’s Adapalene Gel 0.1%

Details: Adapalene is benzoyl peroxide-free. It’s a once-daily retinoid gel that absorbs quickly to treat acne at the cellular level.
Cost: $

Differin Gel

Details: Differin Gel effectively targets two primary causes of acne: clogged pores and inflammation. It clears breakouts where they start (deep in pores) and prevents new acne from forming.
Cost: $

5. Use a clay mask

Clay masks help to draw oils and toxins out of the skin, which helps to unclog pores, says Britt Kimmins. Clay masks are often considered must-haves for oily skin.

Some clay masks also contain sulfur. Sulfur is another ingredient that works to break down the dead skin cells that make up blackheads.

No matter which mask you choose, you can use it once a week in addition to your once- or twice-weekly exfoliating treatment.

Find clay masks online:

L’Oréal’s Detox and Brighten Pure Clay Mask

Details: L’Oréal’s mask claims to detoxify and illuminate skin in just 10 minutes. Potent pure clay and charcoal act like a magnet to clean out pores by drawing out and capturing deep impurities, such as dirt, oil, and pollution.
Cost: $

Cetaphil Purifying Clay Mask

Details: Cetaphil Purifying Clay Mask is designed to purify skin and deep clean pores. It absorbs excess oil and helps improve skin tone.
Cost: $

6. Use a charcoal mask

Like clay masks, charcoal masks work deep in the skin to draw out oil and other impurities, says Britt Kimmins. Charcoal is thought to take these benefits up another notch.

Find charcoal masks online:

ProActiv Skin Purifying Mask

Details: ProActive’s mask is formulated with cooling kaolin clay to refine pores, plus a special blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and botanicals that moisturize and condition skin.
Cost: $$

Origins Active Charcoal Mask

Details: Origins Active Charcoal Mask helps flush out environmental toxins, dirt, and debris that can clog pores and cause skin to look dull.
Cost: $

7. Consider a chemical peel

Chemical peels are traditionally used for anti-aging benefits, such as reduced age spots and fine lines. The peels often contain AHAs or BHAs, and they work by exfoliating the skin, says Massick.

In theory, smoother, refreshed-looking skin should be revealed after going through the process.

Though they’re not considered a primary treatment for blackheads, chemical peels can possibly remove dead skin cells and shrink enlarged pores.

This treatment method may be especially helpful if you’re looking for anti-aging benefits too.

Find chemical peels online:

DermaDoctor’s Physical Chemistry Facial

Details: DermaDoctor’s Physical Chemistry Facial Microdermabrasion + Multiacid Chemical Peel provides an intensive exfoliating treatment for a clinical at-home chemical peel and microdermabrasion session in one.
Cost: $$$

QRx Labs Glycolic Acid 30% Gel Peel

Details: QRx Labs Glycolic Acid 30% Gel Peel stimulates collagen production, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation in the skin by increasing cell regeneration. New cells replace older and damaged ones, exposing a younger skin surface.
Cost: $

8. Make sure you’re using noncomedogenic products

The right cleanser, mask, and exfoliator may do little good if you don’t use noncomedogenic makeup and face products. In fact, Massick recommends starting off a blackhead removal regimen with noncomedogenic products.

Noncomedogenic means that the product in question won’t cause comedones, or clogged pores. Not all products are noncomedogenic, so you’ll have to read labels carefully.

Find noncomedogenic products online:

ProActiv Green Tea Moisturizer

Details: This moisturizer is lightweight and was made especially for acne-prone skin. It’s designed to deliver deep hydration and gently rejuvenate dull, tired-looking skin — without clogging pores.
Cost: $$

Neutrogena SkinClearing Liquid Makeup

Details: SkinClearing Liquid contains salicylic acid acne medication to provide fast acne relief and help fight acne breakouts. It’s oil free, hypoallergenic, and noncomedogenic.
Cost: $

Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen

Details: Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen is fragrance free and water resistant for up to 80 minutes. It helps keep your skin protected from the sun during outdoor activities.
Cost: $

9. Don’t sleep in your makeup

At the end of a long day, the last thing you may want to do is to take off your makeup.

However, sleeping with your makeup on is asking for more blackheads. If left on overnight, even noncomedogenic makeup can clog your pores.

Those with oily skin may want to consider using a foaming cleanser, says Britt Kimmins. Makeup removers can also be used before washing your face for extra cleansing power.

Find makeup removal products online:

Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser

Details: Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser creates a foamy lather that cleanses without overdrying the skin and helps remove even waterproof makeup. It washes away dirt, oil, and makeup in one easy step.
Cost: $

Garnier SkinActive Cleansing Water

Details: SkinActive lifts away dirt, makeup, and excess oil, all in just a few swipes. It’s gentle on the skin and can be used as an eye makeup remover.
Cost: $

Cetaphil Liquid Makeup Remover

Details: Cetaphil Liquid Makeup Remover is dermatologist tested, noncomedogenic and formulated with aloe vera. This gentle, fragrance-free makeup remover can be used all over the face, including the delicate eye area.
Cost: $

10. Avoid pore strips and other home extraction methods

You’ve already learned that picking, scratching, and popping any form of acne is considered off-limits. Still, it can be tempting to locate some form of extraction to get rid of those pesky blackheads.

In recent years, there’s been an uptick in masks, pore strips, and extraction tools that promise clean pores.

Although pore strips and masks may help remove junk from your pores, they can also remove elements that actually help your skin. This includes natural oils and hair follicles. Removing all of these elements can cause your skin to dry out and become irritated.

When irritation occurs, your sebaceous glands may go into survival mode and produce even more oil — resulting in more blackheads.

Other extraction methods include professional-grade metal or plastic tools. These purportedly work by removing clogged blackheads without scratching your skin. The keyword here though, is professional.

Dermatologists who have years of training sometimes use these tools. When placed into hands with limited experience, extraction tools can turn into a source for scratches, wounds, and even scars.

11. Don’t waste your time on benzoyl peroxide

When it comes to over-the-counter (OTC) acne spot treatments, you’re likely to find that many products contain benzoyl peroxide. The problem is, benzoyl peroxide doesn’t work for all types of acne.

Benzoyl peroxide works by reducing swelling, which a key marker of inflammatory acne, which includes cysts and pustules. It can also get rid of underlying bacteria in a pimple.

However, blackheads aren’t considered inflammatory. Also, they are not caused by bacteria, so products featuring benzoyl peroxide won’t do much good.

12. See your dermatologist for professional extraction

Any new acne regimen, including one for blackheads, can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks to take effect.

If you continue to see new and preexisting blackheads after this time, you may need to make an appointment with your dermatologist. They can use professional tools to extract blackheads. The Healthline FindCare tool can provide options in your area if you don’t already have a dermatologist.

They may even recommend a series of dermabrasion treatments or prescription retinoids to prevent blackheads from coming back.

Blackheads

Whiteheads vs. Blackheads: Causes, Treatments, and Tips (Video)

December 16, 2024 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

Whiteheads vs. Blackheads: Causes, Tips, and More

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.

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.

Whiteheads vs. Blackheads: Causes, Treatments, and Tips

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.

Whiteheads vs. Blackheads: Causes, Tips, and More

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.⁴The 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.