It is not always possible to prevent blackheads, but good cleansing habits, lifestyle tips, and a range of natural and other remedies may help remove them.

Black heads are pinhead-like lesions that affect the face and body. They represent oil plugs that contain dead skin cells, bacteria, and other materials.

How do blackheads form?

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Blackheads formTrusted Source when dead skin cells and oil inside the pore rise and push through the skin’s surface. When these materials interact with the air, they oxidize and turn black, forming a plug.

Doctors also call blackheads open comedones. To treat these, a person needs to use products that break up the oil plug that formed inside the pore. Once they break up the oil plug, preventive methods can help keep blackheads at bay.

Learn more about why blackheads form.

Blackhead removal for the face

Removing blackheads from the face requires a consistent skin care routine using products that can break up the skin-clogging oil inside.

1. Cleanse daily

Daily cleansing is vital to reduce excess oil, dirt, and other materials that can build up, clog pores, and potentially cause blackheads.

One approach that appears to helpTrusted Source is double-cleansing.

First, the person cleanses with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and pollutants from the skin.

They follow this with a gentle, water-based cleanser. This removes dirt and oils and prepares the skin for other treatment, such as applying a topical treatment.

2. Apply blackhead-clearing topicals

Topical applications can help break up the oil plug that leads to blackheads. These do take time to work, and a person may have to apply them daily for several weeks before the plug breaks up, reducing the blackhead’s appearance.

Topical applications include:

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs): These are fruit acids that can encourageTrusted Source exfoliation. Examples include glycolic, mandolin, and lactic acids. These topical applications promote skin peeling and reduce blackheads. Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid comes from the willow tree. It is also a natural peeling agent that can help to peel away pore plugs. Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In one small studyTrusted Source, 14 people with mild to moderate acne used a gel containing tea tree oil for 12 weeks. The results suggested that products containing tea tree oil can help manage symptoms without severe adverse effects.

Another option is benzoyl peroxide, a topical application that can reduce bacteria and promote peeling.

3. Try a natural blackhead removal mask

Exfoliating scrubs or masks can help remove dead skin cells that may otherwise clog pores and lead to more blackheads.

Oatmeal

According to one article from 2016, colloidal oatmeal has anti-inflammatory, exfoliating, and skin-soothing properties that may help people with eczema. The researchers suggested it could help reduce irritation and manage various skin conditions due to its beneficial effects on the skin barrier. It may help with acne, but there is no specific evidence to confirm this.

4. Facial scrubs

Some people use scrubs to exfoliate the skin in the hope that it will look smoother. For acne, the idea is that the scrub will open up closed comedones and stop them from progressing. However, their abrasive effect may lead to irritation.

Ingredients used in scrubs include:

ground fruit pits aluminum oxide sodium tetraborate decahydrate granules polyethylene beads

People should check the ingredients of a scrub before purchasing. ExpertsTrusted Source note that sodium tetraborate decahydrate granules dissolve during washing, making them less abrasive and more suitable than other options for sensitive skin.

Polyethylene beads are a form of microplastic, and they are harmful to the environment.

Here, learn how microplastics get into food and their impact on human health.

Blackhead removal for the body

Blackheads tend to develop on oily parts of the body, including the chest and back. The skin in these places is thicker and less sensitive to treatments, which means a person may need to change their treatment approach slightly.

5. Cleanse the skin daily

Keeping the skin clean and dry can help reduce excess oil in areas of the body where blackheads may develop. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends using a body wash that contains benzoyl peroxide.

The AAD recommends purchasing a body wash that contains at least 5.3% benzoyl peroxide. Body washes with up to 10% benzoyl peroxide are available without a prescription. After application, a person leaves it on for at least 2 minutes before rinsing off.

If a person has difficulty reaching their back, they can purchase long-handled brushes or loofahs to help deliver the wash.

6. Use a brush to cleanse and exfoliate

Dry brushing the skin is a natural way to remove dead skin cells that can otherwise clog the pores. Use a natural-bristled brush with a long handle to reach the back, an exfoliating back band, or an extra-long loofah with handles. A person should use a gentler brush for the face than for the body.

Electronic brushes are also available for the skin, although they do not specifically aim to treat acne.

Research carried out by producers of these brushes showed they might be more effective at removing makeup and cleansing the skin than soap and water. A 2019 reviewTrusted Source suggested that they may be a safe and effective way of removing debris from the skin without reducing sebum excessively, but it did not specifically recommend their use for acne.

7. Use sun protection

People often think sun exposure can improve acne, but it can worsen symptoms. It can darken acne and make it last longer. Some acne treatments can also increase sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun and tanning beds.

Using an oil-free sunscreen can help protect the skin from sunlight.

8. Practice blackhead-friendly habits

Here are some other actions that can help prevent acne, including blackheads:

Changing clothes immediately after engaging in any sweat-producing activity, such as being outside or exercising. Sweat that sticks close to the skin can contribute to bacteria buildup. Wearing loose clothing made from natural fibers, such as cotton, that allow the skin to “breathe” and do not create irritating friction. Using a hand-held bag instead of a backpack if acne occurs on the back. Cleansing the skin as soon as possible after sweating. Other remedies

Some remedies are available over the counter for home use. They are not natural remedies, but they do not need a prescription.

9. Pore strips

Pore strips are a type of adhesive pad that a person places on their skin then pulls away. They aim to remove oil, dirt, and dead skin from the skin’s surface.

They contain a substance known as a cationic adhesive polymer. This binds to the contents of blocked pores and removes them as the person pulls the strip away.

To use a pore strip, a person will:

Wet the skin. Apply the strip. Allow to harden. Peel off.

ExpertsTrusted Source recommend using them once a week and advise people not to use them more than once every 3 days.

10. Over-the-counter topical remedies

Look for topical treatments, such as creams or gels, that contain one or more of the following:

benzoyl peroxide, which destroys bacteria and reduces inflammation topical retinoids, such as tretinoin and adapalene, which remove dead skin cells and prevent clogging of the pores azelaic acid, which helps remove dead skin and kill bacteria sulfur, a natural element with antibacterial properties

A person should speak with their doctor or pharmacist about suitable options, which strength to use, and possible adverse effects.

Potential side effects of topical treatments include:

skin irritation hypersensitivity to sunlight dry skin

Always follow the instructions on the pack and any advice from the doctor or pharmacist.

A doctor may prescribe topical antibiotics, which help kill bacteria on the skin. Antibiotic creams are only for short-term use, usually 6–8 weeks, to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.

If these options do not help, they may prescribe a stronger medication. Examples include oral antibiotics, isotretinoin capsules, or co-cyprindiol, which is a hormonal treatment.

What are noncomedogenic products for acne?

Some substances are more likely to block skin pores than others. They have comedogenic properties. Examples include the foaming agent sodium lauryl sulfate, coconut oil, wheat germ, and some algae extracts.

Noncomedogenic products are products that do not contain such substances and are less likely to block the pores. In this way, they may help reduce the risk of acne.

Substances that are relatively less comedogenic and less likely to block the pores include:

almond, avocado, olive, and jojoba oils glycerin aloe vera talc

However, this does not mean they can treat acne.

What not to do

Some popular remedies can damage the skin or make acne worse.

Here are some strategies to avoid:

Blackhead extractors: These metal or plastic tools have an opening on the end that creates pressure on the pore to remove blackheads. However, they can damage the skin or introduce more bacteria and people should leave them to the professionals. Popping or pressing: Pressing on a blackhead can increase the risk of pain, scarring, more acne, and infection. It also creates an entrance for more oil and bacteria to fill up the pore. Only a dermatologist should remove acne. School glue: Some “online hack” videos and articles recommend using school glue, such as Elmer’s glue, to remove blackheads. However, the glue can clog the pores and may cause allergic reactions. Toothpaste: This has some antibacterial properties, but it also contains substances that can damage or irritate the skin.

Always consider the potential for damage and irritation before using any force or shortcut products on the skin. They can lead to scarring and may make acne worse.

Find more tips here on treating and preventing blackheads.

Summary

Various at-home measures can help manage blackheads. If they do not help after 8 weeks, the AAD recommends seeing a dermatologist.

A doctor can prescribe stronger treatments that may help reduce the appearance of blackheads on the face and body

Was this article helpful? Tips for treating blackheads on the nose Avoid self-removal methods Salicylic acid Topical retinoids Chemical peels Other locations What are they? Prevention Summary

It can be tempting to try to remove blackheads by squeezing, but this can damage the skin and cause redness. Gentler methods such as salicylic acid, retinoids, and chemical peels can be beneficial.

Blackheads are one of the most common features of acne, a common skin complaint. They appear as tiny black dots on the skin. Blackheads often form on and around the nose, but they can also occur elsewhere on the body.

Blackheads, and acne in general, can cause distress and low self-esteem in some people.

Many products claim to be effective in removing and preventing blackheads, but not all of them have scientific research to support their use.

Here we look at which products and home remedies may be most effective in removing and preventing blackheads.

Avoid using self-removal methods Share on Pinterest

A person may damage the skin if they try to squeeze blackheads on the nose.

Squeezing blackheads to remove them might be satisfying in the short term, but doing this increases the risk of damaging the skin. Any bacteria on the hands are more likely to pass into the pores, where they could worsen or create more blemishes.

Pore removal strips offer a fast way of extracting oily plugs from the pores, but the effect is short-lived. These strips may trigger a survival response in the sebaceous glands, causing them to produce more oil. Increased oil production can cause more blackheads.

Blackhead remover tools are usually small metal devices with a loop at one end. Unless people have training in how to use them properly, it is best to avoid them. Remover tools may cause more damage to the skin and potentially even lead to scarring.

Learn More About Acne Learn How to Get Rid of Blackheads in 12 Ways Looking for ways to get rid of blackheads? This video offers 10 suggestions on how to get rid of your blackheads. Learn How to Get Rid of Blackheads in 12 Ways 0:57 Benefits And Side Effects of Using Tretinoin Cream 1:02 The Acne-Prevention Diet: Foods for Healthier Skin 0:59 Hormonal Acne: Traditional Treatments, Natural… 0:56 How to Remove Dark Spots Caused By Pimples 1:05 Isotretinoin (Accutane): Side Effects 1:11 Causes and Treatments of Pimples in Ear 1:13 Comedonal Acne: Causes and Treatment 0:51 What Is Cystic Acne and How is it Treated? 0:55 What That Acne Spot on Your Face Means, According… 0:57 4 Home Remedies for Pimples 0:50 How to Reduce the Appearance of Acne Scars 1:10 Jawline Acne: Causes and Treatment 0:56 Back Acne: Treatment and Causes 0:56 What Is Face Mapping? 0:55 How To Get Rid Of That Chin Pimple 1:10 How to Treat and Prevent Maskcne 0:54 The 5 Best Face Washes for Acne 1:05 5 Powerful Home Remedies for Acne 0:54 How to Get rid of Pimple on the Lips 1:06 Causes and Treatments of Forehead Acne 0:55 The Best Products For Acne Scars Explore More Acne Content Salicylic acid

Some cleansers contain salicylic acid, which helps clear clogged pores. These cleansers tend to be gentler on the skin than benzoyl peroxide, which doctors may prescribe for more severe acne.

Salicylic acid can still irritate the skin, though. Depending on how sensitive the skin is, people may be best limiting their use of salicylic acid products to once every few days.

Finding the right skin care products takes some trial and error. It may be helpful to get recommendations from people who have a similar skin type.

Topical retinoids

People can apply topical treatments directly to the skin. Retinoids can reduceTrusted Source the number of blackheads that people have and decrease the amount of oil that the skin produces. They can also improve the overall appearance of the skin, as they have anti-inflammatory properties.

A pharmacist or doctor can recommend suitable retinoid creams, which are available over the counter or on prescription.

Chemical peels

Chemical peels involve covering the skin with a type of acid for a few minutes. The choice of acid will depend on the person’s skin type and the results they hope to achieve.

Chemical peels work by removing dead skin cells and stimulating new cell growth.

After a chemical peel, people might initially experience mild discomfort, irritation, or a burning sensation. After a few days, the overall appearance of the skin should improve, and blackheads should become less noticeable.

Blackheads in other places

Although blackheads are common on the face, they can appear wherever there are hair follicles on the body.

People can treat blackheads on the body in the same way as those on the face. The following practices may also help minimize blackheads on the body:

showering regularly with a mild shower gel using a nonoily body cream a few times a week to avoid drying out the skin changing clothes after sweating wearing loose, natural fiber clothing, which allows air to circulate the skin What are blackheads?

Understanding what blackheads are and how they form can help people decide on the best way to treat and prevent them.

A blackhead forms when a plug of oil, or sebum, and dead skin cells partially blocks a hair follicle, or pore, in the skin.

When a pore remains open, the oil combines with oxygen and turns black. In a closed pore, the plug of oil appears as a whitehead.

Most people will get blackheads at some point during their life. People may find that they have more blackheads in their adolescent years or during menstruation and menopause. People with oily skin tend to experience blackheads more often.

Blackhead prevention

Understanding what causes blackheads in the first place is a good starting point for knowing how to prevent them. People may find the following tips helpful in keeping blackheads at bay:

Wash the skin carefully

Dirt on the skin does not cause blackheads. However, it is important to clean the skin twice a day with a mild cleanser before applying a moisturizer. Choose products that are not oily to avoid clogging the pores even more.

Avoid cleaning the skin more than twice a day, as this may cause irritation and redness.

Exfoliate

Use an exfoliating scrub on the skin once a week to help remove the dead skin cells that contribute to blackheads. A scrub may also improve the overall appearance of the skin.

Avoid exfoliating if it irritates the skin, and stop using a scrub if it makes the skin feel dry or sore.

Always rinse scrubs off thoroughly, and moisturize the skin afterward to prevent dryness.

Eat a balanced diet

The link between diet and skin complaints is controversial, but many healthcare professionals believe that the two factors have an important relationship.

ResearchTrusted Source suggests that high glycemic load, zinc deficiency, and dairy can all contribute to acne. Researchers still need further evidence to support these initial findings, though.

Specific foods may trigger acne, including blackheads, in some people, but not in others.

Keeping a food and skin journal may help people identify any foods that tend to trigger breakouts. Reducing the consumption of these foods or eliminating them from the diet may lead to improvements in the skin’s appearance.

Avoid cigarette smoke

There may be a link between chemicals in cigarette smoke and the development of blackheads and other features of acne.

People who smoke may find that cutting down or quitting altogether has beneficial effects on the skin.

Summary

Blackheads are a common feature of acne. Many people, particularly adolescents, may find that blackheads go away in time and do not need much treatment.

Finding the right skin care regimen and lifestyle habits to reduce blackheads might take some trial and error. Taking time to research and experiment with different products is likely to give the best results.

Avoiding self-removal techniques and using gentle methods should help prevent the skin from becoming red and sustaining damage or scarring.

Last medically reviewed on April 20, 2020

Dermatology Cosmetic Medicine / Plastic Surgery Everything you need to know about blackheads What are blackheads? Causes Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment: Do’s and don’ts

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Blackheads are small, dark lesions that appear on the skin, often on the face and neck. They are a feature of mild acne, but they can appear without other signs of acne being present.

They contain an oxidized version of melanin, the dark pigment made by cells in the skin.

In the United States (U.S.) acne is a skin infection that affects up to 50 million people. Handling blackheads in the right way can help prevent the development of more severe acne.

Fast facts about blackheads Blackheads are made of oxidized melanin and not trapped dirt. Squeezing or scrubbing at blackheads can make them worse. To reduce blackheads, avoid oil-based skin care products, humid environments, tight clothes, and skin products that contain alcohol. They tend to appear when hormones lead to the increased production of sebum, an oily substance, by the glands under the skin. What are blackheads? Share on Pinterest

Blackheads are pockets of oxidized melanin on the surface of the skin.

Blackheads are a type of comedo. Comedones occur when the pores in the skin become plugged with dead skin cells and an oily, protective substance known as sebum.

The top of the blackhead, which is visible on the surface of the skin, has a dark color.

Normally, hair grows from hair follicles in the pores, and the sebum-producing sebaceous glands lie underneath.

When these pores are plugged, the dead skin cells in the open pore react with oxygen in the air and turn black, forming a blackhead.

This is often confused with trapped dirt, but the development of blackheads is not related to the cleanliness of the skin.

Other acne lesions are usually closed, but in blackheads, the skin around the clogged pore opens, air gets in causing the collected sebum oil or dead skin cells to oxidize and turn black or sometimes yellowish.

Blackheads appear most frequently on the face, back, neck, chest, arms, and shoulders. There are more hair follicles in these areas.

Learn More About Acne Learn How to Get Rid of Blackheads in 12 Ways Looking for ways to get rid of blackheads? This video offers 10 suggestions on how to get rid of your blackheads. 0 seconds of 1 minute, 26 secondsVolume 0% 1:26 Learn How to Get Rid of Blackheads in 12 Ways 0:57 Benefits And Side Effects of Using Tretinoin Cream 1:02 The Acne-Prevention Diet: Foods for Healthier Skin 0:59 Hormonal Acne: Traditional Treatments, Natural… 0:56 How to Remove Dark Spots Caused By Pimples 1:05 Isotretinoin (Accutane): Side Effects 1:11 Causes and Treatments of Pimples in Ear 1:13 Comedonal Acne: Causes and Treatment 0:51 What Is Cystic Acne and How is it Treated? 0:55 What That Acne Spot on Your Face Means, According… 0:57 4 Home Remedies for Pimples 0:50 How to Reduce the Appearance of Acne Scars 1:10 Jawline Acne: Causes and Treatment 0:56 Back Acne: Treatment and Causes 0:56 What Is Face Mapping? 0:55 How To Get Rid Of That Chin Pimple 1:10 How to Treat and Prevent Maskcne 0:54 The 5 Best Face Washes for Acne 1:05 5 Powerful Home Remedies for Acne 0:54 How to Get rid of Pimple on the Lips 1:06 Causes and Treatments of Forehead Acne 0:55 The Best Products For Acne Scars Explore More Acne Content Causes

Some factors can increase the chance of developing blackheads.

Age and hormonal changes are an important factor. Like other symptoms of acne, blackheads are most common during puberty, when the change in hormone levels triggers a spike in sebum production. However, they can appear at any age.

Androgen, the male sex hormone, triggers greater secretion of sebum and a higher turnover of skin cells around puberty. Both boys and girls experience higher levels of androgens during adolescence.

After puberty, hormonal changes related to menstruation, pregnancy, and the use of birth control pills can also bring on blackheads in women.

Overproduction of skin cells by the body can cause blackheads.

Other factors include:

the blocking or covering pores by cosmetics and clothing heavy sweating shaving and other activities that open the hair follicles high humidity and grease in the immediate environment some health conditions, such as stress, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) medications that encourage rapid skin cell turnover use of some steroid-based drugs, such as corticosteroids

Contrary to popular belief, poor hygiene does not directly cause blackheads. Excessive scrubbing in an attempt to remove them can make them worse.

Symptoms

The main symptom is the small, dark lesion that gives blackheads their name.

Blackheads are a symptom of acne, but, being caused by open pores, they differ in some ways from other acne lesions.

Blackheads are non-inflammatory. This means they are not infected, and they will not cause pain and discomfort in the same way as pimples and pustules.

Blackheads have a raised texture, but they are flatter than pimples.

The change in appearance caused by blackheads can lead to embarrassment and social or psychological difficulties in some patients.

Sebaceous filaments

Sebaceous filaments look like blackheads, but they are different. They can appear on the nose. They tend to be smaller, appear in groups, and feel flat to the touch. Sebaceous filaments are glands that channel the flow of sebum through the pores. Unlike blackheads, they are not a form of acne.

Diagnosis

Blackheads will rarely lead to a doctor’s visit unless severe acne is already present. They are easy to identify and diagnose from their appearance.

Treatment: Do’s and don’ts

Most people manage their blackheads at home without needing to see a doctor, but some activities can make them worse or trigger a more severe type of acne.

There are many myths and contradictions about how to treat blackheads, so it may be best to see what works for you.

Do’s for blackheads Share on Pinterest

Gently cleansing the skin can help blackheads, so long as the cream used does not excessively dry the skin.

Cleansing: Special scrubs for gently exfoliating the face can help. Look for those that are fragrance-free and for sensitive skin, and avoid anything that makes your skin overly dry. Various products are available to purchase online.

While it is important to dry up the skin by decreasing excessive oil production, drying it too much may make matters worse due to stimulating the extra production of oil by the glands.

Make-up and cosmetics: Use non-comedogenic products that do not clog pores instead should keep the pores clear and open and reduce the buildup of dead skin. Non-comedogenic makeup is available to purchase online from various brands.

Prescription treatments: Azelaic acid, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide are also available in both prescription and over the counter (OTC) forms for non-inflammatory acne. These are topical treatments, applied directly to the skin.

Prescription medications that contain vitamin A, such as tretinoin, tazarotene, and adapalene, may be prescribed to keep plugs from forming in the hair follicles and promote the more rapid turnover of skin cells.

However, most people do not seek these treatments until their acne has worsened to become an infected or more severe form, such as pimples. It might be best to have a skin care specialist remove the blackheads if they become bothersome.

Underlying conditions: Any other skin problems, such as eczema or rosacea, can make treating blackheads a little harder. The condition should be treated before the acne, as successful treatment may lead to improvements in the blackheads.

Rest and relaxation: Getting enough rest and avoiding stress can also help, as stress can trigger sebum production. Exercise can help reduce stress.

Food: Research has not confirmed that cutting out fries or chocolate either will or will not reduce acne, but a healthful, balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables is beneficial for overall health. It may reduce the risk of skin lesions becoming infected.

Don’ts for blackheads

Hormonal triggers can make blackheads unavoidable, but some factors can increase the risk or make them worse.

Squeezing: Avoid squeezing blackheads, even with a metal blackhead remover, as this can irritate the skin and make the problem worse.

Steaming: A steam bath has long been recommended as a treatment for blackheads, on the basis that it “opens the pores.” However, this has not been confirmed by research. Some people find it makes the problem worse.

Scrubbing: This can worsen the problem. Scrubbing removes sebum. The sebaceous glands then work harder to replace the sebum, leading to more blockages and the risk of inflammatory acne.

Removers: Removal strips, masks, and vacuums should be used with caution, as these can irritate and damage the skin if misused.

Makeup and cosmetics: Avoid oil-based makeups and skin care products.

Other environmental triggers to avoid are:

humid environments tight clothes that close off the skin skin products with alcohol, as these can also tighten and dry out the skin

Hydrogen peroxide: This has been recommended for acne. It can reduce the severity of outbreaks, but it is also a harsh product that can dry and irritate the skin. Researchers remain undecided about whether it should be used or not, because of its adverse effects.

Plant-based treatments

Plant-based treatments are often recommended for acne, and some research is under way. Tea tree, thyme, aloe vera, and rose oils all appear to offer antibacterial benefitsTrusted Source to prevent acne from becoming infected. Further research is needed.

As a form of mild acne, blackheads tend to resolve on their own when the body more successfully regulates hormones after puberty. It can take a long time for blackheads to self-resolve, and they may persist for many years.

A patient who is experiencing psychological difficulties with the appearance of blackheads may find it helpful to see a counselor.

Last medically reviewed on July 27, 2017

Dermatology Psychology / Psychiatry How to prevent blackheads: Treatments and home remedies Prevention Home remedies Medical treatment Summary

Blackheads are one of the most common features of acne. They look like tiny black dots on the skin and most often occur on the nose and chin.

Anyone can get blackheads, but they are most common in adolescents and people with oily skin. Blackheads form in the skin’s hair follicles, which are visible on the skin as pores.

Pores can become clogged with sebum — the skin’s natural oil — and dead skin cells. If the pore is open, the plug of oil and cells oxidizes and turns black, appearing as a blackhead. A whitehead forms when a thin layer of skin cells closes the pore at the top.

Many products and techniques claim to prevent or remove blackheads, but not all of them have undergone scientific testing. Also, what works for one person’s skin may not work for someone else’s.

Finding the right skin care routine and habits that work for a person’s skin type is the best long-term solution for preventing blackheads.

Learn about removing blackheads once they appear.

How to prevent blackheads

To prevent blackheads, a person can:

Cleanse the skin Share on Pinterest

Cleansing the skin can help to prevent blackheads.

Dirt on the skin does not cause blackheads, but it is important to clean the skin twice a day with a gentle cleanser before applying a moisturizer.

Washing the skin more often than this is usually unnecessary and could cause irritation and redness.

It is best to avoid products that are oily or heavy, as they will clog pores and make blackheads worse.

Try a salicylic acid cleanser

Salicylic acid is an ingredient in some cleansers that helps break down oil in the pores. Chemical peels may contain it as an ingredient to remove dead skin cells and stimulate new cell growth.

Daily use of cleansers containing salicylic acid might irritate the skin, so people should use them only a few times a week.

Exfoliate once a week

An exfoliating scrub can help remove dead skin cells that contribute to blackheads.

A person can use a gentle scrub on wet skin once a week, although they should avoid using it if the skin feels irritated or sore. After applying the scrub with the fingertips in a gentle, circular motion, a person can rinse it off and then apply moisturizer.

Use topical retinoids

Topical retinoids are creams that people apply directly to the skin to help decrease the amount of oil that it produces. They have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help improveTrusted Source the overall appearance of the skin.

A pharmacist or doctor can prescribe a topical retinoid cream, and they are also available over the counter.

Use a skin brush

A skin brush is an alternative to an exfoliating scrub. These brushes range from electronic models with different settings to more affordable handheld versions.

A person can use them alongside cleansers to remove dead skin cells and prevent pores from becoming blocked.

Apply a weekly mineral mask

Applying a mineral-rich mask to the skin with a little warm water can help draw out impurities from the skin and reduce oiliness.

Using a mask once a week may be beneficial, as long as it does not cause the skin to become irritated or very sensitive. It is important to rinse the mask off thoroughly before applying moisturizer.

Eat a balanced diet

Eating a balanced diet can benefit overall health, including skin health. Although the link between diet and skin health remains unproven, many professionals believe that this relationship is important.

Certain foods may trigger breakouts in some people and not others. ResearchTrusted Source suggests that high glycemic load, low zinc levels, and dairy may contribute to acne, but, so far, no studies have confirmed a link.

Learn more about eating a diet for healthy skin here.

Avoid cigarette smoke

Some experts have suggested a link between the chemicals in cigarette smoke and the development of blackheads and other features of acne.

Cutting down or quitting smoking may help improve the appearance and health of the skin.