Ever find yourself in front of the mirror with an overwhelming urge to squeeze that stubborn blackhead?

You’re not alone. Almost everyone will suffer with blackheads at some point in their lives. But here’s the real kicker – popping them might be doing more harm than good, cautions our in house Beauty Therapist, Steph.

What exactly are blackheads?

“A blackhead (known as an open comedone) is a pore or hair follicle that has become clogged with oil (sebum) and dead skin,” explains Steph. They tend to appear on the areas of the face most prone to oil – your nose, chin and T-zone.

When the trapped oil and skin cells are exposed to air, they oxidise and turn that familiar dark colour. It’s not dirt, so scrubbing harder won’t help – in fact, it might make things worse.

Should you pop them?

Spoiler: Probably not!

While there’s something so satisfying about squeezing blackheads yourself, it can lead to inflammation, scarring and even push the blackhead deeper into your skin, explains Steph.

Book in for a professional extraction and we’ll ensure your skin stays happy and healthy.

Preventing blackheads

The best way to deal with blackheads? Don’t let them form in the first place, says Steph

Prevention is all about keeping your pores clean and unclogged, so a good skincare routine is your first line of defence:

Keep your skin clean

Washing your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser is a must. If you’re prone to blackheads, try something with salicylic acid, like Dermalogica Clearing Skin Wash. It’s brilliant for keeping those pores clear, without drying out your skin.

Exfoliate regularly

Exfoliating is another crucial step. Chemical exfoliants are gentler on your skin than scrubs, advises Steph. I recommend exfoliating twice a week to stop dead skin cells from building up and clogging your pores.

Treating blackheads

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, blackheads can still pop up. When that happens, it’s time to bring out the big guns.

Salicylic acid is your BFF

For treating existing blackheads, salicylic acid is my star player, says Steph. It gets deep into your pores and helps break down the oil that causes blockages.

Add retinoids to your routine

Retinoids are another excellent option, especially if you’re dealing with stubborn or frequent blackheads. They help regulate oil production and keep your pores from clogging in the first place.

Clear, glowing skin

Remember, prevention is easier than cure. With the right skincare routine, you can minimise blackheads and keep your skin looking fresh and clear.

And if you ever need a little extra help, we’re always here for you. Whether it’s a deep-cleansing facial, professional extractions or just some skincare advice, we love to help.