What is the most effective way to get rid of blackheads?
Dec 23, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Han Xuefeng
Introduction
There is no single most effective method for removing blackheads. Under a doctor's guidance, you may use nose strips, fruit acid peels, photorejuvenation, microneedling, laser therapy, and other treatments to address blackheads. It is recommended to visit a reputable hospital and undergo the above procedures under a doctor's supervision to ensure effectiveness and safety. After the procedure, it is important to strictly avoid sun exposure, maintain skin cleanliness, and avoid scratching or irritating the skin.
Generally speaking, there is no definitive product or method that works best for removing blackheads. However, under the guidance of a physician, blackheads can be treated using methods such as nose strips, fruit acid peeling, intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, micro-needling, and laser treatments. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Nose Strips
Nose strips are common products used for removing blackheads, which work by adhering to the skin and pulling blackheads out of the pores. When using them, first wash and dry the nose area thoroughly. Then apply the strip tightly onto the nose and wait for 10–15 minutes until the strip is completely dry. Remove the strip slowly from both sides of the nostrils, rinse the nose with clean water afterward, and apply a toner to help shrink the pores and reduce the risk of pore enlargement.
2. Fruit Acid Peeling
Fruit acid peeling involves the application of high-concentration fruit acids to promote the shedding of the outer skin layer, accelerate the renewal of keratinocytes and part of the superficial epidermal cells, and stimulate collagen fiber regeneration in the dermis. This treatment is effective for improving blackheads and comedones. The general reference price is 300–1000 yuan per session. Noticeable improvement typically occurs 1–2 months after treatment, although possible side effects may include redness, swelling, and itching of the skin.
3. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy
IPL therapy uses high-energy light to treat the skin, stimulate collagen production, reduce pore size, improve skin texture, and decrease sebum production, thereby helping to remove blackheads. The general reference price is 1000–3000 yuan per session. Noticeable improvement typically occurs 2–3 months after treatment, although possible side effects may include mild redness and pain.
4. Micro-Needling
Micro-needling uses a roller embedded with numerous tiny needles to create multiple microscopic channels in the skin, enhancing the absorption of active ingredients, stimulating collagen production, improving skin texture, reducing pore size, and decreasing blackhead formation. The general reference price is 1000–3000 yuan per session. Noticeable improvement typically occurs 2–3 months after treatment, although possible side effects may include redness and pain.
5. Laser Treatment
Laser treatment uses high-energy laser beams precisely targeted at areas with blackheads. The laser energy breaks down the melanin in the blackheads and stimulates collagen regeneration, resulting in tighter skin and reduced pore blockage, thereby removing blackheads. The general reference price is 1000–3000 yuan per session. Noticeable improvement typically occurs 1–3 months after treatment, although possible side effects may include redness and pain.
It is recommended to visit a reputable hospital and perform the above procedures under a physician's guidance to ensure effectiveness and safety. After treatment, strict sun protection should be practiced, skin should be kept clean, scratching or irritation should be avoided, skincare products should be used as directed, and follow-up appointments should be attended as scheduled.
