I spend a ridiculous amount of time staring at pimple popping videos on TikTok. Most feature blackheads – often impressively large ones – being extracted from pores, filmed in strangely satisfying close-up detail. And I’m not alone: we’re all fascinated by blackheads, with data showing that searches for “best blackhead treatment” is a popular term in the skincare sphere. They’re a common affliction, but what can we do about them?
What are blackheads?
“Blackheads are a type of acne,” explains dermatologist Dr Alexis Granite. “They are filled with a plug of sebum (or oil) and dead skin cells and are dark due to the oxidation of melanin within the plug.” Those with oily skin and larger pores are more likely to suffer from blackheads, says Dr Catriona Maybury, consultant dermatologist at Dermatica, but they can happen to anyone.
How to treat blackheads effectively
While it might be tempting to mimic the blackhead removal techniques seen on TikTok, experts agree that extractions are best left to the professionals. “Overly aggressive attempts to remove blackheads can lead to irritation, inflammation and even scarring,” warns Dr Granite. Instead, she recommends using at-home products that promote skin cell turnover while gently exfoliating and clearing out pores.
Ingredients to try include retinol, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and alpha hydroxy acids. “A good skincare routine is essential,” adds Dr Maryam Zamani. “Cleanse the face well, gently exfoliate two to three times a week to remove dead skin and debris, and look for non-comedogenic skincare and make-up products.”
Treatments to try
While a solid skincare routine is key, there are also several in-clinic treatments that can swiftly minimise the appearance of blackheads. Dr. Granite highlights the Hydrafacial as a standout option. This suction-powered treatment combines exfoliation, cleansing and extractions – all in one session – offering a fast-track to clearer, healthier skin.
“In clinic, I would use a professional strength salicylic acid peel, then a combination of hydradermabrasion and manual extraction to remove sebum plugs from the pores,” explains facialist Debbie Thomas. After that, she focuses on reducing the amount of oil the skin produces. “The ADVATx laser has a fantastic setting that shocks the oil gland, temporarily reducing oil production,” she says. “Another great treatment for pre-event pore purging is the carbon laser peel, which involves applying a black, carbon-based peel to the skin, which dries and adheres to the sticky sebum. You then use a laser to vaporise it and leave the pore clear.” Having had this treatment myself, I can attest that it sounds worse than it is – and your skin will look and feel amazing afterwards.
While large pores can make blackheads look more prominent, the only way to reduce them is to plump up the collagen underneath to make them appear less pronounced. For this, Thomas also recommends Fotona Laser’s light resurfacing peel because it instantly triggers all-important collagen production.
The best blackhead products
Here, some of the best anti-blackhead and pore-reducing formulas to try now – just make sure you don’t use them all at once in order to keep your skin barrier robust.
