Skin care mistakes that cause blackheads

Blackheads are clogged pores filled with sebum, dead skin cells and dirt. They most often appear on the nose, chin or forehead – the so-called T-zone, where the skin is oilier. Although many people think blackheads are caused by poor hygiene, they are in fact often linked to unsuitable skin care habits. In this article we discuss the main skin care mistakes that promote blackheads and give tips on how to avoid them.

WASHING YOUR FACE TOO OFTEN OR TOO HARSHLY

When the skin is washed too often – especially with harsh, oil-stripping products – its natural protective film is damaged. The body sees this as a threat and starts producing even more sebum to make up for the loss of moisture. This programmed skin response, known as reactive seborrhoea, often leads to blackheads and inflamed pimples.

What to do:
Choose a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type and wash your face no more than twice a day. If your skin is dry, even washing once a day in the evening may be enough.

USING PEELS AND SCRUBS TOO OFTEN

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores. However, using scrubs (especially mechanical ones) too often or too vigorously can damage the skin's barrier function, which increases the risk of inflammation and blackheads.

What to do:
Exfoliate 1–2 times a week. It is better to choose chemical exfoliants (e.g. with salicylic or glycolic acid), which penetrate deep into the pores without damaging them mechanically.

USING THE WRONG COSMETICS

Using heavy, comedogenic (pore-clogging) products, such as some oils or creams, can hinder the natural cleansing of the pores. Cosmetics that do not let the skin breathe and are too rich can create ideal conditions for blackheads to form.

What to do:
Choose cosmetics labelled "non-comedogenic". Avoid products with ingredients such as coconut oil, lanolin and isopropyl myristate.

NOT REMOVING MAKE-UP PROPERLY

Even the most expensive make-up can harm the skin if it is not properly removed in the evening. Residue clogs pores and mixes with sebum and dust, creating an ideal environment for blackheads.

What to do:
Use double cleansing: first an oil-based cleanser to dissolve make-up, then a gentle water-based cleanser. Never go to bed with make-up on.

TOUCHING YOUR FACE WITH YOUR HANDS

Our hands always carry bacteria, dust and oil. When we touch our face unconsciously – resting a hand under the chin, rubbing the forehead or squeezing pimples – it not only transfers bacteria into the pores but also causes mechanical irritation.

What to do:
Consciously avoid touching your face. If you have to, wash your hands first.

NOT CHANGING TOWELS AND PILLOWCASES

Towels and pillowcases are often in contact with the skin, so if they are not changed often, they can become a source of bacteria, oil and dust. This is especially important for people prone to blackheads and acne.

What to do:
Change pillowcases every 2–3 days and use a separate clean towel for your face.

USING SUN PROTECTION INCORRECTLY OR AVOIDING IT

Some people avoid SPF products, thinking they clog pores. However, skin that is not protected from UV rays dries out more, ages faster and starts producing more sebum – again increasing the risk of blackheads.

What to do:
Choose lightweight, non-comedogenic SPF creams – today there are many options specially designed for oily or acne-prone skin.

NOT DEEP-CLEANSING OFTEN ENOUGH

Although daily care is important, deep pore cleansing (e.g. at a beautician or with special clay or activated charcoal masks) helps remove accumulated dirt effectively. When deep cleansing is done too rarely, blackheads build up and become deeper.

What to do:
Use deep-cleansing masks once a week. Visit a beautician at least every 1–2 months, depending on the condition of your skin.

Blackheads are often caused not only by genetics or hormones but also by unsuitable skin care habits. Avoid the mistakes listed above, watch how your skin reacts to products and keep adapting your routine to the season and your lifestyle.

Our recommendation. For local care of blemish-prone skin, choose BIG PACK zinc ointment. Zinc oxide helps dry and soothe irritated areas of the skin.

SOURCES

1. American Academy of Dermatology
2. Mayo Clinic
3. National Institutes of Health (NIH)
4. Cleveland Clinic
5. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology

# blackheads