Blackheads are one of the most common skin complaints we see in clinic.
And also one of the most misunderstood, because so many people assume they are dirt trapped in the skin. Trying to exfoliate them away or even squeeze them out at home (don’t do it!) in the hope of “deep cleaning” your pores is, unfortunately, an excellent way to makes things worse.
If you want to know how to get rid of blackheads properly, the answer is not aggression! It is understanding what they are, that there are different types of pore congestion, why they form, and how to treat them safely.
So, What Are Blackheads?
Blackheads are clogged pores.
They form when oil (sebum) and dead skin cells build up inside the pore opening. When that blockage is exposed to air, it oxidises and turns dark, creating the ‘black’ appearance.
Other Types of Congestion You May Be Confusing With Blackheads
Not all bumps or clogged pores are blackheads. We use extractions to successfuly treat and remove several forms of congestion in clinic:
WHITEHEADS
Closed clogged pores where the blockage remains trapped beneath the skin’s surface. No exposure to air = no dark colour.
MILIA
Small, hard keratin-filled cysts just under the skin, these do not clear on their own.
SEBACEOUS FILAMENTS
Natural collections of oil within the pore that can resemble blackheads, particularly around the nose.
GENERAL CONGESTION
A build-up of oil, dead skin and debris that creates rough texture, bumps and unevenness.
Each requires a slightly different approach, which is why professional extraction is the best way forward.
Why Blackheads Keep Coming Back
Blackheads tend to recur when the skin is producing excess oil, not shedding dead skin so well, or when congestion is not being removed properly in the first place.
- Common triggers include:
- Excess sebum production (oily skin types)
- Poor skin cell turnover (try retinol)
- Heavy or pore-clogging skincare/makeup (look for non-comedogenic ingredients)
- Hormonal fluctuations (not much we can do about those)
- Picking and squeezing causing inflammation (don’t!)
Why Professional Extractions Work
Once congestion is established, products can help manage it, but they cannot remove it completely, neither can a machine You need the correct technique and professional, hands on treatment.
At Teresa Tarmey, extractions are built into every Super Facial because they remain one of the most effective ways to properly clear congested skin.
Can You Remove Blackheads at Home?
OK, technically you can sometimes. But should you? We’re going to say usually not.
Home squeezing often has a traumatic effect on your skin, which means you’re at risk of broken capillaries, further spreading of bacteria and inflammation, post-inflammatory pigmentation and sometimes even scarring.
In reality most people apply too much pressure in the wrong direction, which can damage the surrounding skin before any blockage is removed, or push the debris further down into the pore.
The Best Products to Prevent Blackheads
While products will not replace extraction, they are so useful for preventing your congestion from returning.
Lactic Acid
Gently exfoliates surface dead skin and helps keep pores clear without stripping the skin.
Retinol
Encourages healthy cell turnover, reduces build-up and helps regulate congestion over time.
Hydration
A healthy barrier just functions better, it forms a stronger force against letting bacteria in. Also Dehydrated skin can overproduce oil and become more congestion-prone.
The Best Treatments for Congested Skin
Super Facials
Our signature deep-cleansing treatment combining expert extractions with tailored skin treatment to improve clarity, texture and overall skin health.
Advanced Facial
Ideal for congestion with sensitivity or inflammation. Combines deep cleansing with gentle resurfacing and calming actives.
Signature Facial
Designed for breakout-prone skin to reduce congestion, calm redness and support healing.
Advanced Skin Resurfacing
Targets persistent texture, post-acne pigmentation and enlarged pores.
Book Your Consultation
If blackheads, congestion, whiteheads or milia are an ongoing concern, the best place to start is with an expert assessment.
Book a consultation and we can create the right treatment plan for your skin.