Blackheads are one of the most common skin conditions going around. While not harmful, they make your skin look dull and abrasive. In the world of perfect skin, blackheads can come across like a dark spell. So if you've ever struggled with blackheads and wondered why they appear and how to get rid of them, you’ve come to the right place.
What are blackheads?
Blackheads are a type of acne known medically as open comedones. They happen when hair follicles, which are tiny openings on the skin containing a hair and oil gland, get clogged. Normally, the sebaceous glands produce an oily substance called sebum that lubricates and protects the skin. Blackheads form when excess sebum mixes with dead skin cells, bacteria, and other debris, and this mixture blocks the opening of a hair follicle. Unlike whiteheads, where the clogged pore is closed, in blackheads the pore remains open to the air. This exposure to oxygen causes the trapped sebum to oxidize, giving blackheads their characteristic black or dark color.
These spots often show up in areas where the skin produces more oil, such as the nose, forehead, chin, and sometimes on the back or shoulders. Factors like hormonal changes (especially during puberty or menstruation), genetics, skincare habits, and environmental exposure to dirt and pollution can influence oil production and pore clogging, making some people more prone to blackheads.
Understanding this process helps explain why blackheads are persistent but treatable with routines that control oil, exfoliate dead skin, and keep pores clear.
Why do blackheads show up?
Blackheads form primarily due to the clogging of hair follicles or pores with excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and other debris. Several factors can invite these clogs:
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Excess oil production: When sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, it mixes with dead skin cells and dirt, creating the perfect plug to block pores. People with oily skin are especially prone to this.
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Dead skin build-up: Our skin naturally sheds dead cells, but if this process slows down or becomes irregular, these cells can accumulate, leading to clogged pores.
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Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or due to conditions like PCOS increase oil production, making blackheads more likely.
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Use of wrong skincare products: Heavy creams, thick makeup, and products containing pore-clogging ingredients (comedogenic) can worsen blackhead formation.
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Environmental factors: Pollution, dirt, humidity, and sweating all contribute to increased oil on skin and clogging of pores.
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Genetics: Some people naturally produce more sebum or have skin that clogs easily, making them genetically more prone to blackheads.
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Lifestyle and dietary factors: Stress, lack of sleep, and diets high in sugar or dairy may influence oil production and inflammation, indirectly increasing blackhead formation.
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Other causes: Certain medications like corticosteroids or lithium and underlying conditions affecting hormone levels can also contribute.
How to remove blackheads?
Darkheads are usually not stubborn and you can get rid of them easily. However, they can return if you do not care for your skin. Here’s how you can break the spell:
Cleanse twice a day
Use a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type to wash away excess oil and dirt. Avoid harsh soaps that can dry out your skin and trigger more oil production. You can try Oteria’s Aloe Hydrating Face Wash.
Exfoliate regularly
Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells that clog your pores. Try mild chemical exfoliants with ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid instead of rough scrubs that can irritate skin.
Use non-comedogenic products
Always pick skincare and makeup labeled non-comedogenic, it means they won’t block your pores.
Try clay masks
Clay masks are great for soaking up excess oils and pulling out impurities. Use them once or twice a week for a clear, fresh face.
Don’t pop or pick
Popping blackheads can push bacteria deeper into your skin, leading to infections or scars. Instead, try pore strips or visit a dermatologist.
Keep your hands off your face
Touching your face transfers dirt and oils from your hands to your skin, inviting more blackheads.
Stay hydrated & eat healthy
Drinking water and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and veggies helps your skin stay healthy and clear from the inside.
Oteria: Your skin’s shaman
Oteria acts as your skin’s shaman, guiding it through the natural rhythms of healing and renewal with the perfect blend of nature and science. Inspired by the skin’s circadian cycle, Oteria’s products work 24x7, supporting the skin’s needs at every phase, from the morning rise to the evening rest. Our products are made for all skin types and genders. Let’s take a look at some of our products:
Aloe Hydrating Facewash
Say goodbye to dryness and hello to balanced, radiant skin with the Aloe Hydrating Face Wash from our Afternoon Rhythm collection. This gentle yet effective cleanser combines Aloe Vera for soothing hydration & is recommended to be used for acne-prone skin, Salicylic Acid for gentle exfoliation, and Niacinamide to boost moisture and refine skin texture.
Perfect for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin, this paraben-free face wash restores moisture, strengthens the skin’s natural barrier, and keeps pores clear, making it an everyday essential for fresh, healthy skin.
Key ingredients
Aloe Vera: Deeply hydrates, soothes irritation and supports skin cell repair.
Niacinamide (1%): Improves texture, reinforces the skin barrier and reduces excess oil.
Salicylic Acid: Gently exfoliates, unclogs pores and helps prevent breakouts.
How to use
Pour an appropriate quantity into wet hands
Gently massage onto your face and neck, forming a lather
Rinse thoroughly with water and pat dry
Use twice daily, morning and evening, for best results
Caution
FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY. Keep protected from light and moisture at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Keep out of reach of children.
Disclaimer: Results based on subjective evaluation. Since our products are made with natural ingredients/extracts they may change the colour and fragrance, but the performance of the product is unaffected.
All Rounder Skin Cream
Enriched with Elecampane Root Extract, Oteria’s All Rounder Skin Cream is packed with powerful antioxidants like chlorogenic acid. It helps reduce inflammation, strengthens the skin barrier, and provides effective protection for healthier, more resilient skin. This anti-pollution face cream is essential for guarding against morning screen time damage and is a perfect addition to your daily skincare routine. Incorporate this skin repair cream into your face care regimen to enhance radiance in 14 days for youthful skin!
Key ingredients
Elecampane Root - Enhances elasticity and combats pollution damage.
How to use
Apply a small quantity of the product on skin using upward strokes until completely absorbed.
Caution
FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY. Keep protected from light and moisture at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Keep out of reach of children.
Disclaimer: Results based on subjective evaluation. Since our products are made with natural ingredients/extracts they may change the colour and fragrance, but the performance of the product is unaffected.
Check out our entire range of products here.
Takeaway
Blackheads may feel like tiny dark spells cast upon your skin, but with the right care and habits, you can outsmart them. By understanding why they form and committing to a routine that balances cleansing, exfoliation, and nourishment, you can restore your skin’s natural glow and resilience. Remember, it isn’t about quick fixes, it’s about consistency and choosing products that work with your skin, not against it.
With Oteria by your side, your skincare routine transforms into a ritual of balance, protection, and renewal.
FAQ’s
1. What exactly are blackheads?
Blackheads are a mild type of acne called open comedones. They occur when pores get clogged with excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and impurities. Unlike whiteheads, the pore stays open, allowing the trapped material to oxidize and turn dark—giving them their "black" appearance.
2. Why do blackheads keep showing up on my skin?
They usually appear when oil production is high or skin cell turnover slows down. Common triggers include hormonal changes, heavy skincare/makeup products, pollution exposure, or simply genetics. If your skin is naturally oily or breakout-prone, you’re more likely to encounter them.
3. Are blackheads harmful?
No. Blackheads are harmless and do not cause serious health problems. However, they can make the skin look uneven or dull, which is why many people prefer to treat or prevent them.
4. Can I safely pop or squeeze blackheads at home?
It’s strongly discouraged. Squeezing can push bacteria deeper into the skin, cause inflammation, and sometimes lead to permanent scarring. Instead, use safe removal methods like chemical exfoliants, clay masks, or consult a dermatologist if they persist.
5. How can I prevent blackheads from forming?
Prevention is all about keeping pores clear and balanced. Some golden rules:
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Cleanse twice a day with a gentle, non-drying face wash.
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Regularly exfoliate using salicylic acid or glycolic acid (skip harsh scrubs).
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Opt for non-comedogenic skincare and makeup.
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Avoid touching your face frequently.
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Keep yourself hydrated and eat skin-friendly foods.
6. Do blackheads only happen on the nose?
Not at all! While the nose is a hotspot due to higher oil gland activity, blackheads can also appear on the cheeks, chin, forehead, back, and even shoulders.
7. Which skincare products actually help fight blackheads?
Products with:
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Salicylic Acid – dissolves oil and unclogs pores.
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Niacinamide – balances oil production and improves texture.
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Clay – absorbs impurities and removes excess sebum.
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Light hydrating cleansers – maintain balance without stripping skin.
8. How long does it take to see results after starting a blackhead-care routine?
Consistency is key. Most people notice visible improvement within 2–4 weeks of following a proper cleansing and exfoliating routine, though long-lasting results come from maintaining these habits daily.