The Best Blackhead Treatments
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As a long-term sufferer of blackheads, the subject of this column is one close to my heart - as well as being the most-frequently raised concern by my coaching clients. I spend a lot of time discussing those pesky little dots we all know and hate, so I thought it only right to dedicate a feature to them.
Firstly, it’s important to understand what blackheads are and why we get them… We all have pores (there’s literally no way to get rid of them, they’re essential to the way our skin functions), but when pores become blocked with oil and dead skin cells, they can cause issues (excess oiliness and increased chances of breakouts). If they become really full, the pore stretches (hence the term ‘enlarged pores’), but it’s actually the oxidation that occurs when the buildup reaches the surface (since the pores are open and exposed to air) which turns the oil black and gives the pore its dark ‘blackhead’ appearance (as opposed to a whitehead which is closed over).
There’s no single solution to getting rid of blackheads - in fact, a two-pronged approach is really the only way to properly get rid of them and prevent them from occurring. The focus of this column is on specific blackhead treatments - the fast-acting, short-term solutions designed to give immediate results. But ultimately, these types of treatments require backup in the form of a long-term treatment plan that incorporates efficient cleansing, regular masking, exfoliation, retinol, and antioxidants.
Anyway, that’s another day, another column - let’s talk blackhead treatments now, because when it comes to getting gunk out of pores, I’ve tried ‘em all, and these are the ones that actually work.
MyClarins Clear-Out Blackhead Expert 2-in-1 Stick & Mask - £17
I can’t tell you how excited I am to finally be able to talk about these new products from MyClarins which launch today. They’ve been sat on my shelf for weeks under embargo but have become staples in my routine - so expect to see them featured in an Instagram story near you very soon… I’ve been especially impressed by this dual-action mask and scrub. I expected a scrub formula that can be left on as a mask, but the cleverly designed packaging actually incorporates two completely separate products - the scrub is a stick on the end of the tube which contains the mask. I start with the scrub to loosen things up on the surface (so satisfying) and then apply the mask - which contains ingredients like green clay and moringa extract to draw congestion out of pores and absorb excess oils.
MyClarins Re-Move Radiance Exfoliating Powder - £22
So this is super smart. It’s basically a loose powder which can be mixed in with a cleanser of your choice (I find it works best with gel formulas) - a great way to incorporate physical exfoliation into your routine if you’re a little bit wary of overdoing it with scrubs. You’ve got complete control over how much you use so you can really tailor the exfoliation to be as gentle (or as strong) as you like it. The powder itself is made from finely milled rice, cranberries, and almonds so it’s super soft and won’t scratch on or tear at your skin like other exfoliants can. Basically, a scrub for people who don’t like scrubs - but still want to see the benefits.
Origins Original Skin Retexturising Mask with Rose Clay - £22
You’ve probably seen those satisfying peel-off mask videos go viral all over your social media and been tempted to try them. Don’t be - peels and strips will only make things worse. If you’re after a quick fix then try this mask instead - it’s my go-to on days where I want my skin to look its absolute best because (as much as I hate this phrase) it ‘makes pores look invisible’ (in less than twenty minutes). There are other clay masks I’d recommend over this one for treating blemishes, breakouts, and scarring etc, but for blackheads and exposed pores, this is the best I’ve used - the results are instant. Sadly, the effect doesn’t last forever - but on no-makeup days especially, it’s worth it for approximately 24 hours of bright, clear skin.
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% - £5
Proving that treating blackheads isn’t just about exfoliation, here’s a product that will help to get right to the root of the problem and act as a preventative measure if you stick with it and use it consistently (everyday, in the morning - just don’t combine with vitamin C). There are many many benefits to using niacinamide in your skincare routine, but perhaps the most significant to this column is its ability to regulate sebum production and ‘tighten up’ enlarged pores. This is one I always recommend to clients who flag issues with pores and blackheads, and always receive good feedback on. I’m surprised that there aren’t more niacinamide-focused serums out there, since this has rave reviews and sells out for almost every retailer who carries it. But then again, it’s not like it needs to be duped or could be bettered - it contains a whopping 10% concentration and costs £5.
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant - £26
Oil-soluble salicylic acid (a BHA) has the ability to break down excess oil and dead skin cells, so it’s a go-to ingredient for blackhead treatment (much more effective than AHAs which can’t go as deep). This toner basically dissolves the buildup before your eyes - I can’t stop kicking myself for not giving into the hype and trying it sooner because it works. I use it once a week to stay on top of my blackheads and have also found it’s really helped to reduce congestion along my jawline. On top of that it gives skin the most incredible glow. The formula is thin (like a toner) so I apply it by soaking a cotton pad which I press over my skin, then leave the solution to sit for 30 mins-ish and work its tingly magic before I apply the hydrating serums and moisturisers of my evening routine.
CosRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid - £26
Very similar to the above (you don’t need both, pick one or the other) but this has a slightly thicker, serum-like texture which you can spread over skin with your fingers. It’s strong, so again this is a 1-2 times a week kind of product, and (from experience) it also needs to sit for half an hour to properly work. This actually contains a slightly different form of salicylic acid to the Paula’s Choice one, which sensitive skin types will find equally as effective but less drying. I love this for targeted treatment and often just apply it around my nose where my blackheads are most visible.
