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As satisfying as that squeeze may be in the moment, the peskiness of blackheads can wear on anyone.
If it’s any consolation, you’re anything but alone when dealing with blackheads.
Additional reporting by Renee Jacques, Sarah Kinonen, and Rebecca Dancer.
What exactly are blackheads?
Blackheads look like itty-bitty dark bumps on the surface of the skin.
It’s the oil’s exposure to air that causes them to oxidize and turn black, she adds.
But if you frequently get them, it’s worth trying to pinpoint why.
Why do you get so many blackheads?
Where it gets complicated, per the pro, is that it’s “all the same pathogenesis.”
Other causes that might surprise you?
Is it OK to squeeze blackheads?
Will blackheads go away on their own?
On the other hand, deep blackheads don’t and often require professional extraction, she says.
What softens blackheads for removal?
However, Dr. Cheung dispels this common misconception and presents a compelling alternative: chemical keratolytics.
Among them are salicylic acid, retinol, glycolic acid, and more.
How do you treat blackheads?
A couple of our favorite salicylic acid scrubs include theSt.
Ives Blackhead Clearing ScrubandDermalogica Daily Microfoliant.
She emphasizes consistent preventive treatments to ward off their formation from the start.
This dual action makes salicylic acid great for treating existing blackheads and preventing future buildup.
If you have sensitive skin, consider anover-the-counter retinoid cream, such as theE.l.f.
Skin Youth Boosting Advanced Night Retinoid Serumor theSkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5% Refining Night Cream.
When all else fails, your dermatologist might prescribe oral medication.
They will get rid of blackheads and prevent new ones from showing up in the future.
