Can You Really Get Rid of Blackheads?

Those pesky black dots around your nose and chin can be so frustrating. And just when you get rid of one, it seems like three new ones pop up in its place. You might wonder if this happens to everyone with blackheads. The truth is blackheads are one of the most common forms of acne. Although people with oily skin are more prone to get them, anyone can get blackheads. And the real question is: can you really get rid of blackheads? Read on to find out.

What are blackheads?

Blackheads are a common form of acne. People with oily skin are more prone to developing blackheads. These small, dark spots are bumps that occur when hair follicles are blocked with debris such as oil and dead skin cells. Most of the time, blackheads appear on the face. They can also appear on the back, chest, arms, and shoulders.

What causes blackheads?

Blackheads occur in the hair follicles in your skin. When the follicle becomes clogged with dirt, oil, and dead skin cells, it collects in the follicle and creates a bump. When this bump remains closed, it is called a whitehead. If it opens, it is called a blackhead because it turns black in appearance.

Causes of blackheads include:

• Overproduction of oil
• Hormonal shifts
• Bacteria build-up
• Irritated hair follicles
• Certain medications

Can you really get rid of blackheads?

Let’s say this about getting rid of blackheads: it’s complicated! There are not many easy ways to get rid of blackheads. However, with diligence, there are actions you can take to improve the appearance of your skin.

How to get rid of blackheads

#1 Manual removal

One way to remove blackheads is to have them removed by a professional. A dermatologist or trained skincare expert can remove blackheads with a round loop extractor. Using that tool, they will apply a small amount of pressure to remove the blackhead in a fast and painless process.

#2 Custom facials

An experienced and licensed esthetician can work with you to create a custom facial. Your custom facial might include a pore-cleaning treatment to safely remove debris. Blackhead removal might require several sessions and include microdermabrasion. Your custom facial will depend on the current condition of your skin and should only be done by a professional.

#3 Laser therapy

Laser therapy is a gentle way to decrease oil production and banish unhealthy bacteria. Laser therapy can reach below the skin to get to the root of the problem without damaging the upper layer.

What are the best products to remove blackheads?

Besides professional therapies, some products can help remove and reduce blackheads at home. However, there are some ingredients to watch out for. Avoid using products with harsh alcohols that strip the skin – these can cause more harm than good.

#1 Hibiscus Infused Vitamin C Serum

Our Hibiscus Infused Vitamin C Serum is a weightless, antioxidant-rich serum. What does this have to do with blackheads? Antioxidants in skincare help keep skin bright, promote collagen production, and actually help stop oil from oxidizing. This is because Vitamin C helps slow down the oxidation process that makes the exposed dirt and debris turn brown or black.

#2 Green Tea Detox Mask

Made with organic matcha green tea, lemongrass, and bentonite clay, the Teami Green Tea Detox Mask is a natural detoxifying mask formulated to rid pores of impurities while replenishing the skin with necessary superfood nutrients. That includes blackheads! This mask is gentle enough for all skin types and will leave your skin feeling soft, clean, and renewed.

Here’s how it works. Bentonite clay acts like a sponge. It is highly absorbent and draws out impurities and debris to calm skin and reduce breakouts. Then, the clay works with matcha green tea to add restorative and soothing benefits. For dual-action benefits, check out the Green Tea Cleanse + Detox Kit.

#3 Teami Repair Facial Oil

Teami Repair Oil rapidly absorbs into the deepest layers of the skin for the ultimate rejuvenating hydration experience. Made with 100% pure plant extracts and natural mineral ingredients, it contains Vitamin E – an antioxidant that may help reduce acne and blackheads.

Can I remove blackheads on my own?

We know it’s tempting to remove blackheads on your own. However, it’s best to leave this up to the professionals. Squeezing blackheads can cause permanent scarring and damage to your skin. It can also invite more bacteria into pores and cause hyperpigmentation.

Is it possible to prevent blackheads?

If you are prone to blackheads, there are ways to reduce your chances of getting them.

#1 Use a skin brush or sponge

A gentle facial brush or Tea Infused Konjac Sponge can help buff away build-up that leads to acne. Do not over-exfoliate, as this can actually exacerbate skin issues.

#2 Wash your face twice daily

Washing your face with a gentle cleanser like our Gentle Superfood Liquid Cleanser is key to stopping blackheads from forming. Wash your face in the morning and in the evening. You should also wash your face after sweating during a workout.

#3 Avoid touching your face

Touching your face means more debris has the chance to get into pores! Keep your hands away from your face. This is also good for your immune health.

#4 Wash your pillowcase often

How often do you wash your pillowcase? Debris from the day builds up on your pillowcase. That means impurities are coming into contact with your skin. Wash your pillowcase regularly to avoid breakouts. And before you go to bed, apply a sleep mask packed with antioxidants so it works on your skin at night!

#5 Use alcohol-free skincare products

Alcohol dries out skin and removes fluids from it. It makes skin dehydrated and impacts the skin’s natural barrier. The Teami skincare line is free of alcohol and bursting with gentle, skin-nourishing nutrients!

The best way to get rid of blackheads is to be proactive about your health and skincare. Eating a nutritious diet, drinking plenty of water, and using skincare with beneficial nutrients can help keep blackheads at bay. If you must remove them, make sure to consult with a professional so you do not damage your skin.

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