7 Dermatologist-Approved Products to Banish Blackheads
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Also referred to as clogged pores, clogged follicles, and open comedones, blackheads are perhaps the most recognizable form of acne. They're named "blackheads" because of their dark color, which occurs because they've been exposed to the air. They range in size from small to quite large and can be tricky to prevent and remove.
"Blackheads behave like bottle-cork plugs," explained Dr. Craig Kraffert, a board-certified dermatologist and the president of Amarte Skincare. "Blackheads occur when skin scales and skin oils congeal to form plugs in the ducts leading from oil glands deep in the skin to the skin surface."
Because of their hue and rough texture, they're very difficult to cover up. For that reason, prevention and extraction are key.
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Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Wash
One of the best ingredients to seek out for blackhead prevention is salicylic acid, which helps dissolve skin debris and buildup while also cutting down on oil production. Dr. Sonoa Au, a dermatologist with Advanced Dermatology P.C., recommended Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Wash ($7), which contains two percent salicylic acid.
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Differin Gel
Dermatologist Dr. Hirshel Kahn recommended retinoids to unclog and prevent blackheads. "Some retinoids are over the counter, and some are prescription," he said. "Sometimes retinoids may be drying and need to be applied sparingly." For a prescription-strength retinoid that you can buy over the counter, try Differin Gel ($11), which contains a powerful type of retinoid called adapalene.
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Amarte Daily ExfoliPowder
Gently exfoliating skin can help keep blackheads at bay as well. "I particularly like the Amarte Daily ExfoliPowder ($37) for post-workout, because the plant-seed-based exfoliants will effectively remove any particles congealing at the surface but are gentle enough for daily use so you could use it every day," Dr. Kraffert said.
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Sunday Riley U.F.O. Ultra Clarifying Face Oil
A common misconception is that oily or acne-prone skin doesn't need moisture. Contrarily, this skin type is thirsty for hydration, which is why it goes into overdrive on sebum production. Keep your skin hydrated with a product that combats acne at the same time. We love Sunday Riley's U.F.O. Ultra Clarifying Face Oil ($40), which contains 1.5 percent salicylic acid, antibacterial tea tree and black cumin seed oils, and brightening licorice.
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PTR Therapeutic Sulfur Masque Acne Treatment Masque
Dr. Kraffert also recommended utilizing sulfur as an ingredient to banish blackheads. Peter Thomas Roth's Therapeutic Sulfur Masque Acne Treatment Masque ($47) is potent but gentle. It combines 10 percent sulfur with kaolin and bentonite clays, as well as aloe vera, to zap oil, exfoliate dead skin cells, purify pores, and soothe. Slather it on, let it set for 10 minutes, then rinse away.
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PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash With 10% Benzoyl Peroxide
Another excellent ingredient to include in your battle against blackheads is benzoyl peroxide, which targets acne-causing bacteria, said Dr. Au. She recommended PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash With 10% Benzoyl Peroxide ($9), the maximum strength allowed over the counter.
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Dr. Pimple Popper Comedone Extractor
If you've got a stubborn blackhead, extraction is probably your best bet, and Dr. Pimple Popper's Comedone Extractor ($20) allows you to extract at home. Just make sure you properly cleanse the area and work gently and slowly to remove the blackhead. If you're feeling squeamish about doing it yourself, hit up a dermatologist or schedule a facial. Dermatologists and estheticians are pros at blackhead extractions.
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