Blackhead Treatment

Blackheads are one of the most common skin issues we get asked about at Paula’s Choice Skincare, probably because so many products on the market claiming to remove them don’t actually work. Here are our top science-backed solutions for using the right products for blackheads, as well as what to avoid so you don’t make them worse.

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Blackhead Products That Really Work

Paula's Choice CLEAR skin care product with gel product dripping down the product packaging on a blue backgroundThe essentials you need to get rid of blackheads:

1. Each morning and evening, use a gentle cleanser for breakout-prone skin. At night, use a wet washcloth to gently massage the cleanser into your skin to remove of all of your makeup.

2. Apply a leave-on salicylic acid (beta hydroxy acid or BHA) exfoliant. Salicylic acid plays a vital role in eliminating blackheads because it can penetrate deep enough to unclog pores and restore a normal flow of oil to skin’s surface.

3. Absorbing excess oil will help prevent blackheads on your nose. Our SHINE STOPPER Instant Matte Finish targets oil-prone areas during the day. Or, a few nights per week, after washing your face, apply an oil-absorbing charcoal mask to keep blackheads at bay.

Blackhead Removal: What NOT to Do

Steer clear of harsh blackhead treatments (including jagged, abrasive scrubs and masks that contain skin-aggravating fragrance) and make sure to care for skin in a gentle manner (no irritating ingredients such as SD alcohol, menthol and peppermint). Anything that irritates skin can cause a sensitizing effect that triggers more oil production, which means more blackheads.

Also, avoid heavy, thick moisturizers in blackhead-prone areas, as they’re more likely to clog pores. Instead, opt for gel, lightweight lotion or liquid skin care products as your hydrator of choice.

Lastly, stay clear of pore strips. They temporarily remove the part of the blackhead you can see but do nothing to address the root causes of the problem, so the blackheads will return.

Lastly, ditch bar soap which can leave residue that builds up on skin and contributes to clogged pores and blackheads.

How to Get Rid of Blackheads on Your Nose

Product swatches including bubbles, gels and creams on a blue surfaceIf your blackheads don’t respond to the tips above, you can try removing them manually with a blackhead extractor tool. Make sure to follow the product’s instructions carefully—any aggressive squeezing, poking or prodding can irritate skin and make the problem worse.

Alternatively, you may want to consider blackhead removal by a well-trained esthetician, who can carefully and precisely extract them without hurting your skin. It’s essential to maintain the results from professional blackhead extractions by following our steps above.

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