What Causes Blackheads? Prevention & Treatment

October 14, 2025 12:37 am

Blackheads are one of the most common skin concerns in the world. They can appear on the nose, chin, forehead, back, or even chest. While they are not dangerous, they can make the skin look uneven and can be frustrating to deal with.

If you have ever looked closely at your skin and noticed small dark spots that seem hard to get rid of, you are not alone. Millions of people experience blackheads at some point in their lives.

The good news is that blackheads can be understood and managed. In this detailed guide, we will explain what causes blackheads, why some people get them more than others, and what you can do to help prevent and treat them safely.

 

What Are Blackheads?

Blackheads are small dark or black-colored bumps that appear on the skin. They are a type of acne known as open comedones.

Inside every pore on your skin, there is a hair follicle and a sebaceous (oil) gland. The gland produces sebum, a natural oil that helps keep your skin soft and hydrated. Sometimes, these pores become clogged with a mixture of sebum, dead skin cells, and tiny impurities from the environment.

When this mixture is exposed to air, it oxidizes and turns dark in color, forming what we see as blackheads.

Unlike pimples, blackheads are not usually inflamed or painful. They are flat or slightly raised and may have a rough texture.

 

How Blackheads Form

To understand what causes blackheads, it helps to know how they actually form.

1. Excess oil production – Your skin produces too much sebum.
2. Clogged pores – Dead skin cells and oil build up inside the pore.
3. Open surface – Unlike whiteheads, the pore stays open.
4. Oxidation – When the oil and debris inside the pore are exposed to oxygen, they darken and form a blackhead.

This process happens slowly and often without discomfort, which is why blackheads can build up over time.

 

Common Causes of Blackheads

There is not just one cause of blackheads. Several factors can contribute to why someone develops them.

1. Excess Oil (Sebum) Production

One of the biggest causes of blackheads is excess oil production. People with naturally oily or combination skin tend to have more blackheads. This can be influenced by genetics, hormones, or even climate.

When oil mixes with dead skin cells, it creates the perfect plug to block the pores.

2. Hormonal Changes

Hormones play a big role in oil production. This is why blackheads are common during:

• Puberty
• Menstrual cycles
• Pregnancy
• Menopause
• Periods of stress

Increased hormone levels, especially androgens, stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil.

3. Poor Skin Cleansing

When the skin is not cleansed properly, oil, sweat, makeup, sunscreen, and environmental impurities build up on the surface. Over time, this can clog pores and lead to blackheads.

4. Heavy or Comedogenic Products

Using skincare or makeup products that are too heavy for your skin can contribute to clogged pores. Products that contain certain oils or waxes may block the pores and lead to blackhead formation.

Choosing non-comedogenic products (products that do not clog pores) can help reduce the risk.

5. Dead Skin Cell Build-Up

The skin naturally sheds dead cells every day. If these are not properly removed through cleansing or gentle exfoliation, they can mix with oil and trap inside the pores.

6. Genetics

Some people are more prone to blackheads simply because of their genetic makeup. If your parents or siblings have oily or acne-prone skin, you may be more likely to experience blackheads as well.

7. Humid Weather and Sweat

Hot, humid climates make your skin produce more sweat and oil. This increases the chance of clogged pores. That is why blackheads can become worse in summer months or after sweating a lot.

8. Hormonal Medications

Certain medications that affect hormones, like birth control or steroids, can increase oil production and make blackheads more common.

9. Incorrect Skincare Habits

Using harsh scrubs or washing your face too often can strip the skin of its natural oils. When that happens, the skin sometimes reacts by producing even more oil, which can lead to clogged pores.

 

Common Areas Where Blackheads Appear

Blackheads can develop anywhere there are hair follicles, but some areas are more common:

• Nose – This is the most common area because the T-zone tends to produce more oil.
• Chin – Often affected due to hormonal changes and oil build-up.
• Forehead – Especially in people with oily skin.
• Cheeks – Less common but can occur, especially near the nose.
• Back and chest – These areas have many sebaceous glands and can be prone to clogged pores.

 

The Difference Between Blackheads and Whiteheads

Blackheads and whiteheads are both types of comedones, but they form slightly differently.

• Blackheads (open comedones) happen when the pore is open and the contents are exposed to air, which causes oxidation and a dark color.

• Whiteheads (closed comedones) happen when the pore is closed and the contents are trapped inside, forming a small bump that looks white or flesh-colored.

Both are caused by clogged pores, but blackheads are easier to spot because of their dark surface.

 

Myths About Blackheads

There are many myths about blackheads that can lead people to choose the wrong treatments.

Myth 1: Blackheads Are Caused by Dirt

This is not true. Blackheads are not caused by poor hygiene or dirt stuck in the pores. The black color comes from oxidized oil and dead skin cells.

Myth 2: Only Teenagers Get Blackheads

Although they are common in teens due to hormones, blackheads can affect people of all ages.

Myth 3: Squeezing Blackheads Is the Best Way to Remove Them

Squeezing can damage the skin, lead to inflammation, or even push the plug deeper into the pore.

Myth 4: Washing Your Face More Often Prevents Blackheads

Over-cleansing can irritate the skin and increase oil production. Gentle, consistent care works better than aggressive washing.

Myth 5: Sun Exposure Clears Blackheads

The sun can temporarily dry the skin, but it does not remove blackheads. In fact, it can make the pores more visible over time.

 

How to Prevent Blackheads

Preventing blackheads starts with good skincare habits. Here are the most effective ways to keep your pores clear:

1. Gentle Daily Cleansing

Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser that removes oil, sweat, and impurities without drying out the skin.

2. Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells before they clog pores. Using a gentle chemical exfoliant with salicylic acid or glycolic acid a few times a week can help prevent build-up.

3. Choose Non-Comedogenic Products

Always check skincare and makeup labels for the words “non-comedogenic.” These products are designed not to clog pores.

4. Avoid Over-Scrubbing

Using harsh scrubs can damage the skin barrier. Gentle exfoliation is more effective and safer.

5. Keep Hair Clean

Oils from the scalp can transfer to the forehead and face, especially if you have bangs. Keeping your hair clean and away from your face can help.

6. Remove Makeup Before Sleeping

Sleeping with makeup on can lead to clogged pores and more blackheads. Always remove makeup before bed.

7. Manage Sweat and Oil

After workouts or being in hot weather, gently cleanse your face to remove sweat and oil build-up.

 

How to Treat Blackheads

If blackheads have already formed, there are safe and effective ways to treat them.

1. Salicylic Acid

This is one of the best ingredients for blackheads. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates the pores, dissolves oil, and helps unclog them. Cleansers or serums with salicylic acid can be used regularly.

2. Retinoids

Topical retinoids help increase cell turnover, prevent clogged pores, and reduce blackheads over time. They are available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms.

3. Clay Masks

Clay masks help absorb excess oil from the skin and draw out impurities from the pores. Using them once or twice a week can help control blackheads.

4. Professional Extractions

A licensed esthetician or dermatologist can safely remove blackheads using sterile tools. This prevents damage to the skin that can occur with home squeezing.

5. Chemical Peels

For more stubborn blackheads, dermatologists may recommend chemical peels with salicylic acid or other exfoliating agents to clear clogged pores.

6. Pore Strips (Temporary Solution)

Pore strips can remove the surface part of blackheads temporarily, but they do not prevent them from returning. Use them carefully and not too often.

 

When to See a Dermatologist

Most blackheads can be managed with good skincare, but in some cases, professional help is best.

You should consider seeing a dermatologist if:

• Blackheads are severe and do not respond to over-the-counter products.
• You also have other types of acne such as whiteheads, cysts, or pustules.
• Your skin is becoming irritated from trying multiple treatments.
• You have scarring or texture changes from picking at blackheads.

Dermatologists can recommend stronger prescription treatments or in-office procedures.

 

Lifestyle Tips to Support Clear Skin

Blackheads are not only about skincare products. Your daily habits can also play a big role in keeping your pores clear.

• Eat a balanced diet with less processed sugar and oily foods.
• Stay hydrated to support healthy skin.
• Change pillowcases regularly to avoid buildup of oil and bacteria.
• Avoid touching your face often.
• Manage stress since stress can affect hormone levels.

Small, consistent changes often give better results than aggressive treatments.

 

Can Blackheads Be Completely Prevented?

Blackheads can be reduced and controlled, but they may not be completely prevented, especially for people with oily or combination skin. The key is regular care. Keeping pores clean, using the right products, and avoiding habits that clog the skin will help keep blackheads under control.

Safe Practices vs. Unsafe Practices

Safe:

• Gentle cleansing
• Chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid
• Professional extractions
• Lightweight, non-comedogenic skincare

Unsafe:

• Over-scrubbing or harsh physical exfoliants
• Picking or squeezing blackheads with fingers
• Using alcohol-based products that dry out the skin
• Applying too many strong products at once

 

FAQs About Blackheads

1. Do blackheads go away on their own?

Blackheads can sometimes fade over time as the skin naturally sheds and renews itself, but most do not disappear completely without some kind of skincare routine or treatment. Regular cleansing and gentle exfoliation help clear them faster.

2. How long does it take to get rid of blackheads?

This depends on the severity of the blackheads and the method used. With consistent skincare, mild blackheads can improve in a few weeks. Stubborn ones may take longer or require professional help.

3. Can diet affect blackheads?

Yes, diet can play a role. Foods high in sugar or unhealthy fats can increase oil production in some people. Eating more whole foods like vegetables, fruits, lean protein, and healthy fats can support clearer skin.

4. Is it safe to use toothpaste on blackheads?

No. Toothpaste can irritate the skin and cause redness or dryness. It is not designed for skincare and can make the problem worse.

5. Can stress make blackheads worse?

Yes. Stress can increase hormone levels that stimulate oil production, which may lead to more clogged pores and blackheads.

6. Is steaming your face good for blackheads?

Steam can help loosen blackheads by softening the skin and opening the pores. However, steaming alone does not remove them. It works best as a preparation step before gentle exfoliation or professional extraction.

7. Can blackheads turn into pimples?

Yes. If bacteria get trapped inside a clogged pore, a blackhead can develop into an inflamed pimple. Proper skincare can help prevent this.

8. Do blackheads mean my skin is dirty?

No. Blackheads are not caused by dirt. They form when oil and dead skin cells oxidize in an open pore, turning dark. Clean skin can still have blackheads.

9. Are blackheads more common in oily skin types?

Yes. People with oily or combination skin often experience more blackheads because their sebaceous glands produce more oil, which can clog pores more easily.

10. Can over-the-counter treatments completely remove blackheads?

They can greatly reduce blackheads and help prevent new ones, but some deep or stubborn blackheads may need professional extraction or prescription treatments from a dermatologist.

 

Conclusion

Blackheads are incredibly common and nothing to be embarrassed about. They happen when oil, dead skin, and impurities clog open pores and oxidize. Factors like hormones, genetics, skincare habits, and climate can all play a role in their development.

With the right skincare routine, good habits, and targeted treatments, you can reduce the number of blackheads and keep your skin clearer and smoother.

If blackheads become stubborn or lead to other skin issues, professional care from a dermatologist or licensed skincare specialist can provide long-term solutions.

Clear skin is not about perfection. It is about understanding your skin, treating it kindly, and making small, consistent choices that support its health.