Cuenco: Keeping blackheads at bay

THIS topic might be disgusting or intriguing to you (or both), but the truth is that most or all of us will get blackheads at some point in our lives. Even those who are not prone to pimples might get blackheads once in a while.

Perhaps because I’m borderline compulsive with my skincare, I have not gotten a blackhead in a while, but I have certainly gotten them before, and I still get clogged pores that I need to clear out. Here’s the lowdown on those pesky little offenders.

• What causes blackheads?

Blackheads are pores that become clogged with dirt and sebum (excess oil). Sweat, pollution, makeup, humidity and hormones can all cause them.

Blackheads can be extremely frustrating because they can be quite visible. Because they are extremely frustrating, we then become very tempted to pick at them.

• Should I remove blackheads myself?

This may be a point of debate—there are some who say there are safe ways to remove blackheads at home, while others say to never try it at home. If you search “blackhead removal” on YouTube, beware of some of the videos that will “pop” up. They can be intensely disgusting or intriguing (or both).

I think it depends on the severity. I have removed small blackheads at home by using a removal tool, the metal kind with a tiny round head, and it works fine. I would do this after my entire skincare routine at night, when skin has been cleansed and softened. Even if my hands are still clean, I spritz on alcohol to sanitize. Center the blackhead inside the metal circle, then push down firmly but slowly. You can also push out the blackhead from the outer edge of the metal circle.

If after a few prods with both methods, the blackhead won’t come out, don’t force it. You may end up with scars or a gaping pore if a blackhead isn’t removed properly.

If the blackhead’s ominous presence is causing you anxiety, have it extracted by a professional. Chances are this is more for your peace of mind than any real threat to your skin.

I use pore strips, but only a few times a year. Don’t use pore strips too often as these can irritate your skin. When there’s not much to pull out, you may end up inviting more dirt to clog the pores or enlarge their appearance.

• How do I prevent blackheads?

Hormonal causes aside, that’s why it is extremely important to cleanse the skin very well in the morning and at night. Who among us isn’t exposed to sweat, pollution and humidity? Cleanse, tone and moisturize daily, and use an exfoliator or soft face brush twice a week to slough off dirt and dead skin cells.