How to remove comedones
Tired of blackheads and other forms of comedones? Let’s talk about why they appear on the skin and what you can do about them.
Identify Comedones
Comedones are visually very different from other blemishes, such as pimples or pustules. They are also not caused by inflammation. Rather, they can be described as visible clogged pores. There are two types of comedones: Blackheads look like black dots on your skin. Whiteheads appear as yellowish-white bumps.
What causes comedones
Our skin produces sebum, which rises through the hair follicles to the surface of the skin to keep it moisturized and prevent it from drying out. If the opening of a follicle (pore) becomes blocked by loose dead skin cells, the sebum begins to build up and clog the sebaceous glands – which leads to comedones. Skin types that are prone to excessive sebum production are especially likely to struggle with these unwelcome visitors. Blemishes are very common in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin), because it produces more sebum than the rest of your face.
What causes comedones
Our skin produces sebum, which rises through the hair follicles to the surface of the skin to keep it moisturized and prevent it from drying out. If the opening of a follicle (pore) becomes blocked by loose dead skin cells, the sebum begins to build up and clog the sebaceous glands – which leads to comedones. Skin types that are prone to excessive sebum production are especially likely to struggle with these unwelcome visitors. Blemishes are very common in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin), because it produces more sebum than the rest of your face.
Open comedones
If the hair follicle is "just" clogged, the comedone is called a blackhead. The follicle opening narrows and the sebum cannot drain away. If the build-up comes into contact with oxygen, it begins to oxidize, which results in the characteristic black color.
Closed comedones
Other than open comedones, closed comedones are also covered by a thin layer of skin. The built-up excess sebum is "held back" and causes a small bump on the surface of the skin. These are called whiteheads.
Prevent Comedones with a Consistent Skincare Routine
Establishing a good, targeted skincare routine is a very effective way to prevent annoying blemishes in the future.
Daily cleansing
Thorough cleansing in the morning and evening is an important step towards clear skin. It is crucial to remove dirt, excess sebum, make-up and environmental pollutants to make it easier for the skin to absorb the ingredients in your skincare products. We recommend using lukewarm water for cleansing. Tip: Achtet auf milde Reinigungsprodukte. many people with oily skin make the mistake of using products that strip the skin of moisture. This can create a vicious circle, as it causes the sebaceous glands to overcompensate and produce even more oil.
Regular exfoliation
As we now know, comedones are caused by dead skin cells clogging the pores. Regular exfoliation removes dead skin cells and excess sebum and leaves a smooth and refined complexion. BHA products are especially suitable for blemish-prone skin. They unclog pores and help treat keratinization disorders.
Sun protection
Admittedly, sunscreen does not prevent pimples. But it does play an important role in preventing and reducing skin discoloration, because pimple marks can be the results of major inflammation or improper removal of blemishes. In addition to using suitable skincare products, sun protection is an important means of preventing pimple marks from darkening and maybe even removing them in the long term.
Daily cleansing
Thorough cleansing in the morning and evening is an important step towards clear skin. It is crucial to remove dirt, excess sebum, make-up and environmental pollutants to make it easier for the skin to absorb the ingredients in your skincare products. We recommend using lukewarm water for cleansing. Tip: Achtet auf milde Reinigungsprodukte. many people with oily skin make the mistake of using products that strip the skin of moisture. This can create a vicious circle, as it causes the sebaceous glands to overcompensate and produce even more oil.
Regular exfoliation
As we now know, comedones are caused by dead skin cells clogging the pores. Regular exfoliation removes dead skin cells and excess sebum and leaves a smooth and refined complexion. BHA products are especially suitable for blemish-prone skin. They unclog pores and help treat keratinization disorders.
Sun protection
Admittedly, sunscreen does not prevent pimples. But it does play an important role in preventing and reducing skin discoloration, because pimple marks can be the results of major inflammation or improper removal of blemishes. In addition to using suitable skincare products, sun protection is an important means of preventing pimple marks from darkening and maybe even removing them in the long term.
How to Remove Comedones
We do not recommend removing comedones yourself. Leave this to the professionals at your local beauty salon or esthetician’s office. If you still want to try, we have summarized the most important steps for you below.
Of course, a good skincare routine is also crucial. The following ingredients are particularly beneficial:
1. Salicylic acid has keratolytic properties (dissolving the horny outer layer of the skin), reduces sebum and regenerates the skin barrier. You will find the highest concentration of salicylic acid in our 2% BHA Exfoliant. In our DERMA CONTROL Anti-Blemish Moisturizing Cream and the Mattifying Gel we use a natural alternative to salicylic acid with similar properties.
2. Azelaic acid has keratolytic properties, too, which provides a natural exfoliating effect. It promotes the removal of dead skin cells to unclog pores and prevent comedone formation. You can apply the 10% Azelaic Acid Serum on its own or mix it with your face cream.
3. Niacinamide is a miracle beauty ingredient. It has anti-inflammatory properties, refines the skin’s texture, balances sebum production and promotes skin regeneration. Our 10% Niacinamide Serum unleashes the full power of this active ingredient. Our OYSTER Pore-Refining Concentrate for combination skin contains niacinamide as well.
4. Hamamelis has anti-inflammatory, astringent (pore-refining) and de-puffing properties, which makes it an ideal ingredient for inflamed, reddened skin. Hamamelis is contained in our Clarifying Beauty Mask, the OYSTER Pore-Refining Concentrate and both of our DERMA CONTROL moisturizers.
Important! Also make sure that your skin is well hydrated to prevent it from drying out. Products with hyaluronic acid or glycerin are particularly beneficial for the skin.
Other Hero Products with Anti-Blemish Action
The OYSTER Mask is a perfect addition to your skincare routine. It has an anti-inflammatory effect, mattifies oily skin and helps to prevent new blemishes. In other words, a great all-in-one product to reduce and prevent comedones.
Our DERMA CONTROL SOS Anti-Blemish Concentrate is a quick remedy for blemishes. Apply it directly to the affected spot or area. Tip: Use before applying make-up. Panthenol soothes the skin at the same time.
BHA products are excellent exfoliants, especially for blemish-prone skin. They refine the skin’s appearance by removing dead skin cells, unclog pores, reduce blackheads and have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Not sure which products suit your skin?
No problem! Simply take 5 minutes to complete our Product Finder Questionnaire. One of our qualified DALTON skin experts will then review your answers and provide a skincare recommendation completely tailored to your needs. Don’t worry, this service is of course free of charge. If you wish, you can also have a set of product samples sent to you to try the products our experts have selected for you.
Professional help
Seek advice from a professional to avoid more severe breakouts, deep clean pores and remove your blackheads and whiteheads. Make regular appointments at your local beauty salon or esthetician’s office. Depending on your skin’s individual needs, you can choose between several different treatments. These include: Facial extractions or Aqua Facial treatments.
Should you squeeze open or closed comedones?
We generally advise against removing open or closed comedones yourself. This can lead to infection or skin injuries. If you still can’t keep your hands off your face, you should proceed as follows: Clean your skin thoroughly beforehand and disinfect the area to eliminate any bacteria. Tip: Place a lukewarm compress onto the comedo beforehand. Wash and disinfect your hands, too. It is best to use a tissue wrapped around your fingers when removing the blemish. Under no circumstances should you forcefully press, squeeze or use your fingernails. Only press lightly on the edge of the comedo and do not repeat several times. Then disinfect the area. You can also use our SOS Anti-Blemish Concentrate for this. The panthenol it contains soothes the now reddened, sensitive skin.
Can you treat comedones at home with a blackhead extractor?
No! There are many tools and supposed home remedies for removing comedones. Special comedone extractors claim to make it child’s play. Here's the problem: They can severely damage the skin and cause inflammation and scarring.
Are open comedones an early form of acne?
In contrast to blemish-prone skin, acne refers to a skin disease that must be diagnosed by a dermatologist. However, if the skin is very prone to comedones, it may be a mild form of acne - "acne comedonica". Comedones and small blemishes accumulate in the T-zone in particular. This form of acne is widespread during puberty and usually improves in young adulthood. By the way, did you know that a balanced, healthy diet can promote clear skin? You can read more on that topic in our article on acne and diet.
Should you squeeze open or closed comedones?
We generally advise against removing open or closed comedones yourself. This can lead to infection or skin injuries. If you still can’t keep your hands off your face, you should proceed as follows: Clean your skin thoroughly beforehand and disinfect the area to eliminate any bacteria. Tip: Place a lukewarm compress onto the comedo beforehand. Wash and disinfect your hands, too. It is best to use a tissue wrapped around your fingers when removing the blemish. Under no circumstances should you forcefully press, squeeze or use your fingernails. Only press lightly on the edge of the comedo and do not repeat several times. Then disinfect the area. You can also use our SOS Anti-Blemish Concentrate for this. The panthenol it contains soothes the now reddened, sensitive skin.
Can you treat comedones at home with a blackhead extractor?
No! There are many tools and supposed home remedies for removing comedones. Special comedone extractors claim to make it child’s play. Here's the problem: They can severely damage the skin and cause inflammation and scarring.
Are open comedones an early form of acne?
In contrast to blemish-prone skin, acne refers to a skin disease that must be diagnosed by a dermatologist. However, if the skin is very prone to comedones, it may be a mild form of acne - "acne comedonica". Comedones and small blemishes accumulate in the T-zone in particular. This form of acne is widespread during puberty and usually improves in young adulthood. By the way, did you know that a balanced, healthy diet can promote clear skin? You can read more on that topic in our article on acne and diet.
Beauty editor
