Puss filled pimples are pretty darn gross, but blackheads might actually be worse.
The dark coloured dots, which are found on your face, back, chest and arms, are actually a mixture of oils, proteins, bacteria and hair trapped beneath your skin's surface. Once exposed to oxygen, the concoction turns its signature dark colour, dermatologist and founder of Compass Dermatology Julia Carroll tells The Huffington Post Canada.
As tempted as you may be, Carroll insists you refrain from popping and pressing on your blackheads as it could lead to scarring. Instead, look for cleansers that contain salicylic acid and retinoid creams which can prevent and eliminate the spots.
You can even try this all-natural face mask which contains pore tightening lemon juice and moisturizing honey.
For more tips on getting rid of blackheads check out the slideshow below. And let us know, how do you banish blackheads?
Everything You Need To Know About Blackheads
What Are Blackheads?(01 of08)
Open Image ModalHow Do We Get Them?(02 of08)
Open Image ModalBlackheads are caused by excess production of sebum (oil), says Carroll. "The usual cause of increased sebum production is hormone changes especially during puberty." There are also special blackheads known as solar comedones, which are caused by chronic sun damage, Carroll explains. (credit:ThamKC via Getty Images)
Why Are They Black In Colour?(03 of08)
Open Image Modal"The black colour is caused by a chemical reaction known as oxidization," says Carroll. "When the melanin contained in the sebum is exposed to oxygen in the air it turns black." (credit:ThamKC via Getty Images)
Can They Spread?(04 of08)
Open Image ModalWhile blackheads can get better or worse, they are not infectious and thus do not spread. (credit:ThamKC via Getty Images)
Do They Require Special Cleansers?(05 of08)
Open Image Modal"Cleansers with acids such as salicylic acid or glycloic acid can help dislodge the plug which will improve the blackheads," says Carroll. Cleansing brushes and pore cleansing strips can also help clear skin and reduce blackheads. (credit:B2M Productions via Getty Images)
What Is The Best Way To Get Rid Of Them?(06 of08)
Open Image ModalPrescription retinoid creams are best for eliminating existing blackheads. In extreme cases an oral medication may be prescribed. Carroll suggests using pore strips for temporary removal and microdermabrasion performed in a dermatologist's office. (credit:mheim3011 via Getty Images)
Can They Be Prevented?(07 of08)
Open Image ModalWith the regular use of cleansers containing salicylic acid as well as regular use of a retinoid cream, blackheads can be prevented, says Carroll. (credit:RunPhoto via Getty Images)
Can Past Blackhead Scars Be Healed?(08 of08)
Open Image ModalWhen it comes to healing scars, it really depends on the size, says Carroll. "For an isolated scar I will often do a small excision. For multiple scars I turn to my lasers."To prevent scarring all together, Carroll says you should avoid squeezing and frequently extracting them, as this can cause pores to become enlarged over time. (credit:michaeljung via Getty Images)