No, you generally should not pop blackheads as it can damage skin, spread bacteria, cause infection, lead to inflammation, and result in scarring or dark spots (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation); instead, use salicylic acid, retinol, or chemical peels, and see a dermatologist for safe extraction.
“Avoid picking at blackheads! Attempting to extract will introduce additional bacteria and actually cause the opening to get bigger,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Diane Madfes. “Forcing the contents of the gland deeper and causing scarring.
If you let blackheads stay put and block your pores, they might cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, leaving you with some dark spots on your skin.
It can be very tempting to squeeze blackheads, but this isn't something you should try at home. Instead, visit a dermatology clinic for safe, professional extraction. If you try to get rid of blackheads at home by squeezing them, you'll end up redistributing the infected material to other areas on and under your skin.
“Blackheads are caused by the pores getting clogged up by oils, dirt, and dead skin cells, which then come into contact with oxygen (oxidize) and turn that dark color,” explains Dr. Fenton. Now that you know how they got there, let's talk about how to remove blackheads from your skin.
While Vaseline doesn't directly dissolve blackheads, it does soften keratin and sebum inside the pores, allowing them to be removed more easily — a gentler alternative to forceful squeezing.
When you use your fingers, you risk pushing the infection deeper, leading to more inflammation, scarring, and even rupturing beneath the skin. Dermatologists use specialized tools because they apply even pressure, making extractions safer and more effective. If you do use a tool, be gentle!
The longer you leave a blackhead, the more likely it is to get pushed down even deeper, making it even more challenging to remove. There is also a risk of infection and inflammation if left untreated, as it's possible for bacteria to enter the pore, particularly when it's enlarged with a deep blackhead.
A dilated pore of Winer is a common, giant blackhead pimple, found on your head, neck and torso. Dilated pores of Winer occur on adults and the elderly.
The body's immune system responds by sending white blood cells to the affected area, resulting in redness, swelling, and the formation of pus. Over time, the pimple may either burst, allowing the pus to drain out, or it may resolve on its own as the inflammatory response subsides.
Blackheads often go away in early adulthood, though some people will continue to experience them throughout their lives. Your healthcare provider, medical aesthetician or dermatologist can help you manage your blackheads.
No, they do not leave behind holes. Although, after an extraction, you might notice that pore looks more noticeable, resembling a hole, but it isn't one. The pore was merely dilated due to congestion. By regularly using a pore-minimising toner, it should go back to its original form.
Because the pore gets stretched out of shape, it will fill back up again even after it is emptied.
Incorporate a Toner to Fight Blackheads
Applied after cleanser, toners remove leftover impurities that can potentially clog pores and lead to blackheads.
Your body can gradually break down pus and reabsorb its components. That's why small accumulations of pus (like in a pimple) often don't need treatment.
According to Dr. Maiman, the "gold standard" of blackhead removal tools is a stainless steel comedone extractor. The best part? They are safe to use on sensitive skin and will only cost you a few bucks.
Previously Popped Pimple
If you squeezed a whitehead, but it wasn't fully removed, it can become inflamed again. It's also possible for another pimple to appear next to it because the area got irritated and exposed to bacteria.
Factors that can cause your pimples to smell
The smell associated with acne isn't just a byproduct of the blemishes themselves—it's caused by an interplay of factors. The presence of bacteria, the intensity of your acne breakout, and your personal hygiene practices all collectively contribute to this distinctive scent.
Using products that contain retinol or salicylic acid: Retinol and salicylic acid help clear out dirt, oil and other debris clogging your pores.
Your sympathetic nervous system reacts when you're under stress by releasing stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline into your body. Cortisol causes increased oil production in your skin glands, which can lead to clogged pores and acne breakouts.
Pore strips can remove blackheads from the skin's surface but are not a long-term solution. Not all dark spots on your nose are blackheads; some are just large pores that pore strips cannot help. To get rid of blackheads, you may need treatments like retinoids or salicylic acid.