Many people wonder what is the best way to remove blackheads, because this form of acne lies below the skin. A blackhead extractor might be a good solution, although there are a few factors that you need to consider in order to get the best blackhead treatment possible.
Difference Between Whiteheads and Blackheads
The two types of acne that most people experience are whiteheads and blackheads. Sometimes people with more severe acne will also have deep cysts and other large blemishes, but the majority of the population only experiences whiteheads and blackheads on a regular basis.
Even though they appear to be different, these two types of acne actually occur as a result of the same oil underneath the skin. The sebaceous gland within the hair follicle produces oil which moves to the surface of the skin. When an overproduction of oil occurs, the oil may begin to buildup underneath the skin’s surface and collect dead skin cells.
When a whitehead occurs, the buildup causes the skin to bulge a little bit, and the white color can be seen just below the surface of the skin. In comparison, a blackhead has the same buildup, but it remains below the surface of the skin and the plug is exposed to a little bit of air which reacts with the oil. When the oil plug and air interact, it turns black.
Is Squeezing the Best Way to Remove Blackheads?
The first response when people have a blemish, either a whitehead or a blackhead, is to squeeze the area in order to release the buildup of oil and skin cells. Even though squeezing may seem like the best way to remove blackheads, the truth is that it may actually damage the skin and it does not get rid of the root cause of the problem.
Another option is to use a blackhead extractor, which may seem like a more gentle method to get rid of the oil plug. Many people have not heard of a blackhead extractor – it is a small metal tool with a curved wire at the end. When the wire is placed around the blackhead and pressure is applied, the oil plug may release and the black waste will be removed from the blemish.
Even after a blackhead had been removed, it is common for more blackheads to occur. Instead of using the temporary solutions such as a blackhead extractor or squeezing the area, it is better to find a solution that works long term to get rid of the oil buildup and prevent it from returning again.
What is the Best Way to Remove Blackheads?
Since blackheads are caused by oil collecting below the skin, it is important that your skin treatment focuses on balancing the oil production. Simply getting rid of blemishes one at a time does not prevent more breakouts in the future. We suggest a two-step routine which works to get rid of current blemishes and prevents future blemishes from occurring.
Step one is to cleanse the skin with a natural skin wash that contains gentle and effective ingredients. Not all skin washes are created equal, because some of them have harsh chemical ingredients that cause additional problems when they are used. The best skin wash that we have found is the Facial Cleansing Gel made by Zenmed. Step two is using an all-natural spot treatment for trouble areas. We recommend Derma Cleanse Acne Gel, which is also made by Zenmed. These two products work especially well together. Follow the links to learn more about them.
So, if you are trying to decide on the best way to remove blackheads, don’t squeeze the blackhead or use a blackhead extractor – it is better to focus on products that will get rid of the root cause of the skin problems.
Additional Resources
Review of Products That Remove Deep Acne Scars.
Strategies for Teens With Acne.
More Than The Best Way To Remove Blackheads on our Best Acne Treatments Page
Healthy Skin Guide Home Page