You’re likely to come close to getting acne pimple popping blackheads …unless you are fortunate enough to have genetically flawless skin that has never been exposed to dirt and grease. Clogged hair follicles in your skin result in blackheads, a moderate form of acne. It’s tempting to try to clear the obstruction in your pore and carry on with your life when you spot a blackhead. But most of the time, popping a blackhead leaves a Pandora’s box of potential issues behind. Blackheads can affect everyone, though those with oily skin are more susceptible to getting them.
They arise from the accumulation of dead skin cells and sebum (excess oil) from the sebaceous glands in your pores. Blackheads produce a dark-colored oxidation because of their open surfaces, in contrast to whiteheads, which form closed pores. Although it could be alluring to try to pinch or push the black plug out, doing so could harm your skin in addition to leaving needless scars. According to Allison Britt Kimmins, MD, MPH, “The good news is that there’s a cornucopia of over-the-counter products that contain effective ingredients to exfoliate, soften, and even remove acne pimple popping blackheads.”
Identifying Acne Pimple Popping Blackheads
The tiny black specks on the sides of your cheekbones or the bridge of your nose are not blackheads. Although your hair follicles are involved in blackheads, occasionally oil buildup makes pores and follicles that seem blocked more noticeable. If oil buildup is the real problem, trying to remove an imaginary blockage could lead to further damage to your skin. Nothing will happen if you pop a blackhead that is simply an accumulation of oil because the oil will usually return.
You run the danger of infected wounds and skin damage when you attempt to push a blockage out of a pore. However, blackheads are less dangerous to pop because they have open pores, unlike other types of pimples. There are safer ways to pop a hair follicle if you’re positive that’s the problem and you don’t think you can avoid it. The safe way to pop a blackhead will be covered in this article.
Safe Acne Pimple Popping Blackhead Removal Techniques
Take a few minutes in a warm bath or shower before attempting to remove a blackhead. Your pores will begin to relax with the use of steam, and the blockage will begin to release naturally.
When you’re prepared to release your pore, do the following:
- This is vitally important to stop the infection from spreading to your dermis, the layer of skin where bacteria are most easily held. If you have latex or plastic gloves, you might want to wear them.
- Press the area surrounding the obstructed pore. If necessary, place a piece of clean cotton gauze or tissue between your hands and the blackhead to act as a barrier.
- Move your fingers in a circular motion around the obstructed pore.
- Keep in mind that you are attempting to remove an intact blockage composed of dead skin cells and dried oil.
- It might be necessary to experiment with various pressure settings and finger placements.
- Avoid applying pressure that could lacerate or bruise your skin.
- Feel the blockage release. Give your skin time to heal if these methods don’t work to clear the obstruction before attempting again.
- Use a toner or light astringent to clean the area. By doing this, you can eliminate dangerous bacteria and keep your pores clear of the dirt that led to your blackhead.
What Should You Do After Popping Blackheads?
The size of your pore will decrease when you extract a blackhead. This is a result of the oil and grime being eliminated. Use a toner, such as witch hazel, to condition your pores and eradicate any bacteria you may have transferred to the region. While your skin heals, you might want to refrain from touching the area directly. Another blackhead may appear if dirt or any other irritant is introduced to the region.
How to avoid getting blackheads
You can save yourself the trouble of trying to remove blackheads yourself by practicing preventative skin care and blackhead prevention. Think about these methods for managing and avoiding blackheads.
Every day, use a dry brush or a cleansing scrub to gently exfoliate your skin. Skin fragments may clog your pores and produce an atmosphere conducive to the development of blackheads.
Use a moisturizing moisturizer without smell to keep your skin nourished.
For healthy skin, sip lots of water throughout the day. Every night, make sure to thoroughly cleanse your skin to remove any leftover makeup and products. You can add moisture while cleaning with a mild cleanser like micellar water or makeup-removing wipes with a cucumber base.
How To Avoid Getting Acne Pimple Popping Blackheads?
You can save yourself the trouble of trying to remove acne pimple popping blackheads yourself by practicing preventative skin care and blackhead prevention. Think about these methods for managing and avoiding blackheads.
- If you are prone to flaking or have dry, sensitive skin:
- Every day, use a dry brush or a cleansing scrub to gently exfoliate your skin. Skin fragments may clog your pores and produce an atmosphere conducive to the development of blackheads.
- Use a moisturizing moisturizer without smell to keep your skin nourished.
- For healthy skin, sip lots of water throughout the day.
- Every night, make sure to thoroughly cleanse your skin to remove any leftover makeup and products. You can add moisture while cleaning with a mild cleanser like micellar water or makeup-removing wipes with a cucumber base.
- Use a clay mask to absorb extra oil and give your complexion a more matte appearance.
- Consider using products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid in your skin care regimen. Oil plugs can be removed by these substances before they block your pores.
- To absorb oil and condition your pores, make a DIY baking soda scrub.
- To condition your skin, use a serum or lotion containing retinoids. Always wear a light SPF when you go outside because this component can make your skin more vulnerable to UV damage.
Extreme Blackhead Popping
Applying Strict Scrubs
It can be alluring to use an exfoliating scrub to slough off all of your dead skin in a moment of satisfaction. Although granule scrubs and chemical exfoliators (such as AHAs) might be beneficial, Saedi advises against over-exfoliating. She says, “Harsh scrubs can strip your natural oils and create more oil.” Exfoliation should be done up to three times a week, depending on your skin type and the product you use, according to dermatologists in general.
Manual Extraction
Suozzi advises against giving in to the impulse to squeeze any zits. “Squeezing your blackheads can rupture the follicle and lead to the formation of an inflammatory lesion, or cyst,” the expert explains. To put it another way, you can turn a blackhead into a far more severe skin problem. Remember that it’s safer to squeeze a blackhead that is closer to the skin’s surface.
Using Suction Devices
Suozzi notes that while devices that claim to remove oil from pores may sound alluring, they may cause more harm than good. According to Suozzi, “This suction can be harmful to delicate facial skin and can induce the appearance of telangiectasias, or ‘broken blood vessels,’ particularly on and around the nose.”
Professional Blackhead Treatment
It’s time to visit a dermatologist if you’ve been using over-the-counter acne pimple popping blackhead solutions for six to eight weeks without success. A prescription-strength retinoid can be necessary to help get rid of your blackheads. Prolonged blackhead removal may also be aided by professional procedures such as laser therapy, chemical peels, hydra facials, comedone extraction, and microdermabrasion.
Comedone Extractions
A dermatologist or aesthetician would frequently exfoliate the patient’s skin before using a sterile metal tool to extract blackhead muck during comedone extraction. Blackhead removal is not recommended due to its longer duration and sometimes higher cost. If you still have blackheads after trying various treatments, your dermatologist would recommend extraction.
Microdermabrasion
Using an abrasive tool, microdermabrasion is an exfoliating procedure that removes the outermost layer of skin. Professional microdermabrasion can remove congested pores by penetrating blackheads deeper than at-home devices. To lower the risk of infection, professional treatments also provide a more hygienic environment. The average duration of a microdermabrasion facial is thirty to forty minutes, and the removal of blackheads may require five to sixteen treatments. Those who use retinoid creams should avoid microdermabrasion since it can raise the risk of scarring. Additionally, most insurance policies do not cover microdermabrasion.
Chemical Peel
This is an additional thorough exfoliation procedure that can be used to improve skin texture and get rid of blackheads. A dermatologist uses chemicals during a chemical peel to remove dead and damaged skin cells and remove layers of skin. Consequently, blackhead-forming dead skin cells and accumulated oil can be eliminated with the use of chemical peels. Chemical peels come in three different intensities: medium, deep, and refreshing/lunchtime. You can have slight discomfort or severe skin redness and crusting, depending on the type of peel. The healing process of the skin can take several days or weeks. If you want to get rid of blackheads, your insurance might not pay for chemical peels.
Laser Treatment
The FDA has approved photopneumatic treatment to treat blackheads. It employs a vacuum and an intense pulsed light (IPL) laser to remove oil and dead skin cells from pores. It can take several sessions to notice improvements, and you can feel minor burning and stinging after a session. Blackheads cannot be treated by infrared light therapy or visible light equipment (such as blue and red light) used at home or in offices.
Final Thoughts
Even though it might be very impossible to avoid using your two fingers to remove that blackhead, make every effort to ignore it. According to Suozzi, “prevention is the best medicine.” Enlist the aid of a few potent substances, such as retinoids, which are dual-purpose agents that will assist in treating skin ailments and preventing the formation of new blackheads. Alternatively, schedule a consultation with your dermatologist for a medical procedure.
Read More: HOW TO GET RID OF PUFFY NIPPLES: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
Most people can safely remove a blackhead once in a while, but it’s crucial to avoid doing so regularly.
Make an appointment with a dermatologist if you experience recurrent blackheads so they can assist you address the issue with longer-lasting treatment choices.
FAQs
1. What are blackheads, and why do they form?
Blackheads are small, dark-colored bumps that appear on the skin when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. The dark color is due to oxidation of the oil when it comes in contact with air.
2. Is it safe to pop blackheads at home?
Popping blackheads at home can be tempting, but it’s essential to do it correctly to avoid causing further skin damage or infection. Improper popping can lead to scarring and inflammation.
3. How should I prepare my skin before attempting to pop blackheads?
It’s crucial to soften the skin and open the pores before attempting to remove blackheads. You can do this by applying a warm, damp cloth to the affected area or using a steam treatment.
4. What tools should I use to safely pop blackheads?
If you choose to use tools, such as come done extractors, ensure they are sterilized and designed for this purpose. Avoid using your fingers, as this can introduce bacteria to the skin.
5. What’s the proper technique for popping blackheads?
Gently press down on the skin surrounding the blackhead, applying even pressure. Avoid squeezing too hard, as this can damage the skin. If the blackhead doesn’t come out easily, stop and try again later.
6. Are there any risks associated with popping blackheads?
Yes, there are risks, including scarring, infection, and exacerbation of acne. It’s essential to proceed with caution and stop if you experience pain or excessive bleeding.
7. How can I prevent blackheads from forming in the first place?
Maintaining a consistent skincare routine that includes cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing can help prevent blackheads. Additionally, using non-comedogenic products and avoiding excessive oil on the skin can be beneficial.
8. Are there any alternative treatments for blackheads besides popping?
Yes, there are alternative treatments, such as chemical exfoliants containing salicylic acid or retinoids, which can help unclog pores and prevent blackheads. Additionally, professional treatments like facials or microdermabrasion can be effective.
9. Can popping blackheads worsen acne?
Yes, popping blackheads can worsen acne by spreading bacteria and causing inflammation. It’s essential to be gentle with your skin and avoid aggressive popping techniques.
10. When should I seek professional help for blackhead removal?
If you have persistent blackheads or are unsure how to safely remove them at home, it’s best to seek professional help from a dermatologist or licensed esthetician. They can provide personalized advice and treatments tailored to your skin’s needs.
