Blackheads are a common skin condition that many people want to get rid of quickly. While there are many remedies claimed to dissolve blackheads fast, not all are supported by evidence. This article reviews proven methods that can help dissolve blackheads quickly, as well as tips for prevention.
What are blackheads?
Blackheads, also known as open comedones, are small bumps that appear on the skin due to clogged hair follicles. They are a mild type of acne that occur when dead skin cells, oil (sebum), and bacteria become trapped within the pore, oxidize, and turn black when exposed to air.
Blackheads most often appear on the face, especially in the T-zone which includes the forehead, nose, and chin. They can range in size from barely noticeable to large, dark dots. While not painful, they can be unsightly and difficult to remove.
What causes blackheads?
There are several underlying factors that can lead to blackhead formation:
- Excess oil production – The sebaceous glands produce an oily substance called sebum to moisturize the skin. Overactive sebaceous glands can cause excess oil, which mixes with dead skin cells to clog pores.
- Hormones – Blackheads tend to be worse during puberty because hormonal changes stimulate sebum production. Hormone fluctuations during the menstrual cycle or pregnancy can also trigger breakouts in women.
- Bacteria – The pore-clogging mixture of oil and dead skin cells provides the perfect environment for bacteria, specifically Cutibacterium acnes, to multiply and cause inflammation.
- Skin cell buildup – Abnormal shedding of dead skin cells can lead them to stick together and clog pores.
- Enlarged pores – Wider pores allow more oil, bacteria, and debris to become trapped inside.
- Skin irritation – Harsh skin care products, scrubbing, squeezing, or picking can irritate pores and make them appear larger.
How to get rid of blackheads fast?
While blackheads cannot be removed instantly, there are several effective remedies and products that can help minimize and dissolve them more quickly when used properly:
1. BHA or salicylic acid
Salicylic acid, also called beta hydroxy acid (BHA), is a top choice for dissolving blackheads. It has the ability to:
- Penetrate pores and loosen clogs
- Exfoliate dead skin cells
- Regulate sebum production
You can find BHA in many over-the-counter acne treatments, cleansers, toners, peels, and spot treatments. Start with a 2% concentration and slowly increase to 5% if tolerated. Using BHA 1-2 times daily helps keep pores clear.
2. Retinol creams or gels
Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is highly effective for blackheads when applied topically. It works by:
- Unplugging blocked pores
- Increasing skin cell turnover
- Normalizing sebum production
Apply a pea-sized amount of 0.025-0.1% retinol cream or gel at night 2-3 times a week, gradually increasing frequency based on tolerance. Use daily sunscreen too, as retinol makes skin sensitive.
3. AHA or glycolic acid
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid are chemical exfoliants that:
- Dissolve the “glue” holding dead skin cells together
- Clear built-up layers from pore openings
Glycolic acid cleansers, toners, and peels containing 5-10% AHA used 2-3 times a week can help remove blackhead plugs with continued use.
4. Clay masks
Clay masks provide deep cleansing benefits that help shrink pores and draw out blackheads over time. Look for masks containing:
- Bentonite clay – absorbs excess oil
- Kaolin clay – gently exfoliates
- Sulfur – kills acne bacteria
Apply a thin layer to clean skin, leave on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse. Use clay masks 1-2 times per week for best results.
5. Oil cleansing method
This method uses natural oils to dissolve blackheads. Oils like grapeseed, sunflower seed, hemp seed, and argan are great choices. The steps are:
- Apply oil to dry skin and massage in for 2-3 minutes
- Dampen hands and continue massaging for another minute
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water
Oil cleansing effectively breaks down oil and dirt from pores while maintaining moisture. Do this daily or several times per week.
6. Charcoal masks or scrubs
Activated charcoal has absorbing properties that make it great for clearing pores. It pulls out blackheads, oil, and other gunk trapped in pores when used in:
- Clay masks – combine with bentonite clay
- Scrubs – mix with gentle exfoliants like jojoba beads
Use a charcoal mask 1-2 times per week and scrub 2-3 times per week to remove blackheads.
7. Pore strips
Pore strips provide quick removal by adhering to sebum and dead skin. Press the strip onto clean dry skin, let harden, then peel off. Focus on blackhead-prone areas like the nose, chin, and forehead.
While pore strips won’t prevent new blackheads, they can quickly remove surface plugs. Use them occasionally when needing immediate results.
8. Hydrocolloid bandages/patches
These thin medicated stickers can be applied directly onto blackheads overnight to painlessly lift out sebum plugs. The best are made of hydrocolloid dressing that forms a seal and draws out impurities.
Place on clean bare skin and leave on for 6-8 hours, then gently remove. Use several nights in a row on stubborn spots for significant improvement.
9. Extractions
Extractions involve using a tool to gently press out clogged material from pores, providing instant blackhead removal. Proper methods include:
- Using a sterile comedone extractor tool
- Softening skin first with a warm compress
- Applying even pressure on sides of blackhead only
- Disinfecting skin and tools before and after
Extractions should only be done occasionally. Improper techniques can cause infection, scarring, and enlarged pores.
Home remedies to try
Along with proven blackhead treatments, you can try these homemade solutions using common household ingredients:
Baking soda
The gritty texture of baking soda helps dislodge blackheads when used in DIY scrubs. Mix with water or honey to form a paste, apply to nose, allow to dry, then rinse.
Raw honey
Honey acts as a natural astringent to tighten pores and pull out impurities. Apply a thin layer to blackhead-prone areas for 10 minutes before rinsing.
Lemon juice
The vitamin C and citric acid in lemon juice makes it a great natural exfoliant for blackheads. Dip a cotton ball in juice and dab onto spots, wait 5 minutes, then rinse.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains mild acids that break down blackheads with repeated use. Mix equal parts ACV and water and apply with a cotton ball daily.
Green tea
Green tea is rich in antioxidants that reduce excess oil and acne-causing bacteria. Brew strong green tea, allow to cool, then apply with a cotton pad or spray bottle.
Turmeric
Turmeric’s antimicrobial properties help eliminate acne-causing bacteria. Make a paste with water or yogurt and apply to blackhead areas for 20 minutes before rinsing off.
Aspirin
Crush up an aspirin tablet and add a few drops of water to form a grainy paste. Apply to blackheads and allow to dry completely before rinsing. Repeat 1-2 times per week.
Other helpful tips
The following habits can help prevent new blackheads from forming:
- Wash face twice daily with mild cleanser
- Use oil-free, non-comedogenic skin care products
- Exfoliate 2-3 times per week
- Use toner after cleansing to reduce oil and tighten pores
- Avoid touching or picking at face
- Wear oil-absorbing face powder if needed
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
When to see a dermatologist
Consult a dermatologist if you have severe or persistent blackheads that don’t respond to over-the-counter treatments. A dermatologist can provide professional-grade products or procedures like:
- Prescription retinoids
- Chemical peels
- Laser resurfacing
- Steroid injections
- Manual extractions
They can determine if an underlying condition like hormonal imbalance or PCOS is causing breakouts and recommend appropriate therapies.
Conclusion
Getting rid of blackheads quickly is possible with consistent use of proven OTC ingredients like salicylic acid, retinol, glycolic acid, and clay. While home remedies can provide mild benefits, stronger prescription treatments may be needed for moderate to severe cases.
Implementing a regular skin care routine with acne-fighting and pore-cleansing products, along with not picking or touching the face, helps prevent new blackheads from forming. See a dermatologist if at-home methods are ineffective at dissolving stubborn blackheads.
| Method | How it Works | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Salicylic acid | Exfoliates and clears pores | 1-2 times daily |
| Retinol | Increases cell turnover | 2-3 times weekly |
| Glycolic acid | Chemically exfoliates | 2-3 times weekly |
| Clay masks | Absorbs oil and draws out impurities | 1-2 times weekly |
| Oil cleansing | Breaks down oil and dirt | Daily or several times per week |
| Charcoal | Pulls out blackheads | 1-2 times weekly for masks, 2-3 times weekly for scrubs |
| Pore strips | Remove surface blackheads | As needed for quick results |
| Hydrocolloid patches | Draw out sebum plugs | Overnight as needed on stubborn blackheads |
| Extractions | Removes plugs from pores | Occasionally; avoid over-extracting |
This summarizes the key methods for quickly dissolving blackheads, how they work, and recommended frequency of use.
In addition to proven blackhead treatments, natural ingredients like baking soda, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and turmeric can provide mild exfoliating and antimicrobial benefits when used in homemade scrubs and masks. Supporting your skin care with healthy lifestyle habits optimizes your results.
Seeing a dermatologist for stubborn, chronic blackheads may be necessary to receive prescription-strength retinoids, chemical peels, or other medical grade procedures. With consistent use of the right solutions for your skin, you can achieve clear, blackhead-free skin.