Blackheads

Removing and Preventing Blackheads with the Right Routine

Want to remove those annoying blackheads? Make sure you follow the correct daily routine. Blackheads are caused by an overproduction of sebum that accumulates in your pores. Dead skin cells that clog the opening of the pore also contribute to this. The pore then gets clogged, which may result in a blackhead.

Blackhead products to implement in your routine

When excess sebum in the pore combines with built-up layers of dead skin cells on the surface of skin and inside the pore, it clogs the pore's opening. This means sebum can no longer naturally sit on top of your skin. The combination of excess sebum and dead skin cells is exposed to oxygen. The result? The mixture oxidises and turns black, forming a blackhead.

Removing blackheads: step 1

Always choose a facial cleanser against blackheads, preferably a cleanser from the Paula's Choice collection. By cleansing your face every day, you reduce blackheads and prevent the emergence of new ones. A cleanser allows you to remove excess sebum. This ensures that an exfoliant (which you use afterwards) can reach and unclog the pores better.

Removing blackheads: step 2

Use a BHA exfoliant that penetrates deeply into your pores and removes excess sebum and dead skin cells. This helps prevent clogged pores and blackheads.

Removing blackheads: step 3

Apply an SPF moisturizer formulated to address blackheads. Sun damage sometimes distorts your pores or makes them bigger. Sebum then accumulates in your pore and grows into a blackhead. Using a moisturizer with cell-communicating ingredients helps restore your pores.

Paula's Choice moisturizers, salicylic acid products & face cleansers for blackheads

Paula's Choice moisturizers, salicylic acid products & face cleansers for blackheads Do you regularly experience blackheads? Target blackheads with the right Paula's Choice products for your skin. BHA is a powerful ingredient that helps get rid of blackheads. Use BHA for blackheads by looking for cleansers, exfoliants and treatments that include BHA or salicylic acid and use them consistently on the areas of your face that you experience blackheads. Our bestselling liquid exfoliant for blackheads and other concerns has a liquid formula to penetrate skin quickly and 2% BHA to unclog and refine pores.

FAQ's

1. What causes blackheads and how can Paula's Choice help?

Blackheads form when oil and dead skin cells clog pores and oxidize. Our science-backed solutions:
• Gently dissolve pore blockages with 2% BHA (salicylic acid)
• Regulate oil production with niacinamide
• Prevent future clogging with non-comedogenic formulas
• Minimize pore appearance without harsh stripping

2. Which product works best for stubborn blackheads?

Our top-rated solutions:
🔥 BEST SELLER: 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant - #1 dermatologist-recommended chemical exfoliant
• For sensitive skin: 1% BHA Lotion Exfoliant (gentler formula)
• For oily/acne-prone skin: Pore-Reducing Toner (BHA + niacinamide)
• Weekly treatment: 4% BHA Foaming Mask (intensive pore purification)

3. How often should I use blackhead treatments?

Recommended frequency:
• Daily treatments: 2% BHA Liquid (can use 1-2x daily for oily skin)
• Foaming mask: 1-2x weekly max
• Always start slowly (every other day) if new to chemical exfoliants
• Follow with oil-free moisturizer to maintain balance

4. Can I use these with other acne treatments?

Safe combinations:
✓ With niacinamide (reduces irritation)
✓ With hyaluronic acid (prevents dryness)
✓ With retinol (alternate nights)
Avoid combining with:
✖ Physical scrubs (can irritate)
✖ Other strong acids (AHA/BHA together may be too harsh)

5. How long until I see results?

Expected timeline:
• Immediate smoother texture
• Visible reduction in 2-4 weeks
• Optimal results after 8-12 weeks continuous use
• For maintenance: continue use 3-5x weekly

PRO TIP: Apply BHA treatments to dry skin after cleansing and wait 5 minutes before next steps to maximize effectiveness!