Removing Blackheads – To Squeeze, or Not to Squeeze?
Have you ever looked in the mirror, found a blackhead staring right back at you, and had the immediate impulse to immediately squeeze the little bugger into oblivion? If so, you’re not the only one. Removing blackheads are so frustrating especially when no topical treatment or cleanser seems to be working. Naturally, we are immediately tempted to pick them out as soon as we notice it. However, experts say that squeezing or picking a blackhead is a huge no-no, and they’re better left alone. But what if you can’t resist? Is there ever a time that squeezing is OK?
If done incorrectly, applying pressure to blackheads can be very damaging to the skin. There is always a risk of inflammation, swelling, infection and rupturing blood vessels. This is why you should never remove a blackhead with your fingernails, as squeezing a blackhead with your fingernails can push the gunk clogging the pores even deeper, where it can develop into inflamed lesions. You also put yourself at risk for permanent scarring and enlarged pores.
On the other hand, if done correctly, gentle blackhead extraction can be beneficial to improving the appearance of your skin. Though, it’s important to use the proper tools such as comedone extractors, pore strips, or sterilized tweezers.
If you feel that it is absolutely necessary to squeeze a blackhead, steam your face for at least 5-10 minutes before doing so. The steam will open your pores and help dislodge the blackheads. A facial steamer is a great investment for any acne sufferer, but if you’re on a budget, you can always fill a large bowl with steaming hot water, place a towel over your head to form a tent, and comfortably place your face over the bowl. Alternatively, you can also place a warm washcloth over your face. After extracting the blackheads, gently cleanse the skin and apply toner to close the pores.
For best results, you should leave the squeezing to a dermatologist or professional aesthetician who is trained to extract blackheads without damage.
So, the next time you look in the mirror and feel the urge to attack those blackheads with your fingernails, reconsider. Proper tools and technique would be a much better choice for removing blackheads than your fingers.
