How to cure "strawberry nose"? A US dermatologist explains the causes of blackheads in pores and how to remove them

One of the most worrisome skin problems is blackheads. Blackened skin caused by keratin plugs filled with sebum stains and old keratin is difficult to hide with makeup, and it can be made worse if you take care of it incorrectly.

"Those that look like black spots on the surface of the skin are medically called blackheads (open comedones). Stubborn clogged pores can be caused by oil, sebum, dirt, It's dead skin," says Robin Gumilek, M.D., a dermatologist at Park View Laser Dermatology.

As the oily mixture oxidizes on exposure to air, it turns black or gray in color.

"Blackheads and whiteheads are classic early signs of acne," explains Eif Rodney, M.D., dermatologist and founding director of Eternal Dermatology.

"Blackheads are darker because they appear in open pores. Whiteheads, on the other hand, appear in closed pores, where the clogged follicles are covered by a thin layer of skin. It's lighter in color, and that's the main difference between the two."

So this time, in order to deepen our understanding of blackheads in pores, we asked American dermatologists to explain the causes and how to remove them.

What causes blackheads in pores?

According to Dr Gumilek, blackheads have many underlying causes.

"Generally, it is seen in puberty when excessive sebum and oil secreted by hormones tend to clog pores."

“Also, hormonal imbalances caused by menstruation, pregnancy, and polycystic ovary syndrome can affect your skin.”

Additionally, taking steroids, sweating in tight clothing and hats, and applying pore-sealing creams and oil-based products can also clog pores.

Clogged pores also play a role in genetics, according to David Bank, M.D., founder and director of The Center for Dermatology, Cosmetics & Laser Surgery.

"The size of the pores is genetically determined, and if the pores are large, it is easy to get dark."

How to deal with blackheads in pores?

There are many ways to deal with blackheads, but in general, "use a medicated cleanser or treatment product that helps break down the dirt in your pores," Dr. Rodney says.

In addition, the ingredients and prescriptions that deal with blackheads in pores are as follows.

1. Use a cleanser with salicylic acid

First, look for active ingredients such as salicylic acid and beta-hydroxy acids, which are ideal for removing blackheads from pores.

"It's oil-soluble, so it can penetrate deep into pores and oil follicles and break down dirt and sebum," says Dr. Rodney.

She recommends daily cleansers like La Roche-Posay's Effaclar Medicaid Gel Cleanser that contain these ingredients.

2. Use a face wash containing benzoyl peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is more effective and powerful. This ingredient is included in products such as Ceravi's Acne Cleansing Cream Cleanser. It is said to help break down dead skin cells on the surface of pimples and improve pore clogging.

Dr. Excessive use can dry out or irritate the skin.

3. Deep cleansing of pores with a powerful retinoid

If you have not been able to get any effect no matter what you try, retinoids and retinol, which are vitamin A derivatives, are effective for blackheads in pores. is.

"Retinoids are available over-the-counter or by prescription," Drs.

4. Use a steamer and carefully squeeze out

Bunk recommends starting with steaming your face to open up your pores.

"Then, use two cotton swabs to gently press the darkened area of ​​the pore. Avoid using your hands as it can pick up bacteria and cause an infection."

5. Remove blackheads from pores in 2 steps

To remove blackheads from pores by morning, first use a pore sheet (tape) and then apply salicylic acid before going to bed. , Dr. Bank recommends taking two steps.

If you have blackheads in your cheek pores, do it gently. 'Since the cheek skin is a little drier than the rest of the skin, it can be irritated by medications containing salicylic acid, retinoids, or benzoyl peroxide,' says Dr. Gumilek.

You can use these ingredients, but remember to use less than other areas to avoid drying out or irritating your skin.

6. Remove with pore tape to cure "strawberry nose"

If you want to improve strawberry nose with blackheads, try pore tape. "First, tape is applied to the skin of the nose. As it dries, oil, sebum, and dead skin cells stick to the adhesive, and when the tape is removed, the blackheads in the pores are removed," explains Dr. Gumilek.

However, people with sensitive skin or rosacea should be careful because it may cause a tingling sensation. If you're prone to blackheads on your nose, regular cleansers and serums with salicylic acid and professional facials are also good options, Dr. Bank says.

How to get rid of blackheads on your body

"For blackheads on your back, use a face or body wash with benzoyl peroxide in your daily shower.1 Let it sit for ~2 minutes and then wash it off,” explains Dr Gumilek.

If you try this method, start with the 5% benzoyl peroxide formula. If it doesn't irritate your skin, she says, switch to a higher percentage.

If benzoyl peroxide dries your skin too much, Dr. Gumilek suggests using a cleanser with salicylic acid instead.

Another option is to apply a thin layer of retinoid gel or cream to the blackhead area before bed. Make sure to apply every other night at first to prevent irritation.

If you have more stubborn blackheads, see a dermatologist. Dr. Bank recommends Jessner peels, which are a mix of alpha and beta hydroxy acids to exfoliate and combat acne.

Don'ts

If you're having trouble removing blackheads from your pores, don't try to force yourself to do so.

"If you have deep-seated blackheads, see a dermatologist or esthetician because they have special tools to safely extract dirt from your pores." Leave it to the professionals, as it can leave scratches and scars,” says Dr. Rodney.

How to prevent blackheads

Although you can't get rid of blackheads permanently, you can prevent them by following a consistent skincare routine that incorporates the advice above.

In addition, keep the following things in mind every day.

*This article is a translated version of what was posted on an overseas site. All data and research results are from original articles.

Translation: Mitsuko KannoFrom Good Housekeeping US