Blackheads are a frequent problem for people who have oily, acne-prone skin. One of the most common methods for treating blackheads is a deep cleansing facial.

What is a Blackhead?

Blackheads form when skin follicles become filled with a substance called sebum – an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. When sebum is exposed to air, an oxidation reaction occurs which causes the sebum to darken in color – giving the characteristic appearance of blackheads - which resemble tiny black dots clustered in oily areas of the face. Understandably, most people dislike the appearance of these “bumps” and often over cleanse in a misguided attempt to get rid of them. Unfortunately, this usually leads to more oil production which makes the problem worse.

Facials help to exfoliate the dead cells on the surface of the skin which contributes to clogged pores. Steaming before exfoliating enhances the effect of a facial by opening the pores and making them more receptive to exfoliation.

Some estheticians manually extract the sebum from blackheads during a facial. This improves the appearance of problem skin immediately, but should only be done by someone who has experience since there’s a risk of scarring and infection.

Facials and exfoliation have definite benefits when it comes to treating blackheads and blemish prone skin, but they aren’t the complete answer for most people. Most people need a little extra help to get blackhead free skin – such as the use of comedolytics. 

Comedolytics are skin care products that help to open up clogged pores and reduce the number of blackheads. Common ingredients in comedolytic products are Salicylic Acid or Glycolic Acid – weak acids which loosens old skin cells that block pores, and Benzoyl Peroxide. 

Facials for Blackheads: The Bottom Line…

Facials for blackheads can be helpful for treating blackheads, and a good home regime will enhance the long term results.  The Skin Spa is now offering a “Clear Me Up” kit, which includes a Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser, Salicylic and Glycolic Acid treatment pads, and a Benzoyl Peroxide spot treatment.