Those suffering from blackheads know how a blackhead extractor is a useful tool in their skin care regimen. Though many who know and understand blackheads immediately take action to remove them, a lot of people simply do not know or recognize a blackhead on their skin to begin with. You do not have to be a dermatologist or even a skincare professional to remove blackheads, but you do have to understand what they look like, what causes them and how to use a blackhead extraction tool to make sure these blemishes don’t wreck further havoc on your skin.
What is a Blackhead?
Blackheads are pin-size blemishes characterized by their yellow or black-centered appearance. Referred to as an open comedone, blackheads are the start of acne breakouts. These blemishes form inside the pore and allow bacteria to enter, which leads to the red, irritated bumps associated with pimples.
Causes of Blackheads
The most common cause of blackheads is excessive oil buildup on the skin. Typically this condition is seen in pubescent teens as hormonal changes lead to a rise in excess oil production on the skin, known as sebum. Puberty, however, is not the only cause of blackheads; therefore before using a blackhead extractor to remove the problem, the source of the blackhead should first be determined. Common causes are:
- Poor cleansing skincare regimen
- Clogged pores due to oil production
- Use of topical oils on the skin
- Oil-based makeup
- Excessive use of moisturizers, sun screens and oil-based foundations
Black Head Treatment
A person should regularly cleanse their face, whether or not they have acne or oil-prone skin. For skin prone to blackheads, use a blackhead cleanser. These are created with medicated ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to remove oil and dirt that builds up in the pores as well as wash away bacteria. Cleanse the face one or two times per day to keep skin fresh and clean and prevent not only blackheads, but acne breakouts in general.
Face masks for blackheads have been proven effective in removing dead skin cells and soaking up excess oil on the skin. Look for a face mask formulated to fight blackheads or oil buildup and use as directed once per week.
Cleansers and face masks are not the only blackhead treatments available. Often poor skin cleansing is the cause of blackheads to begin with; therefore people looking to eliminate blackheads can take on a few healthy skincare practices such as:
- Washing the skin day and night to remove oil
- Removing makeup before bed
- Using oil-free makeup, sun screen and moisturizers
- Avoid the use of topical oils on the skin, especially in areas prone to blackheads
Using a Blackhead Extractor
A blackhead extractor will remove blackheads already present on the skin’s surface, since cleansers and face masks only prevent them from occurring. A Tweezerman comedone extractor is available over-the-counter at most drug stores and is used to extract the blackhead from the skin’s surface with little to no pain. Though the tool is effective at extracting, the skin needs to be prepared properly to make the process successful.
- Step One – Inspect the blackhead to make sure there is no sign of infection on or around the blemish.
- Step Two – Wash your face with an antibacterial face wash and prepare the extraction tool by disinfecting it with rubbing alcohol.
- Step Three – Steam your skin by placing your face above a bowl of hot water and covering your entire head with a towel. Leave your face in the steam bath for five to seven minutes. This loosens dirt and oil present in the pores so that the blackhead extractor will work easily, without pain.
- Step Four – Press the extraction tool over the blemish until is releases from the skin. Use a gentle, downward pressure, but do not force out the blackhead if it will not release.
- Step Five – Cleanse the face with an antibacterial face wash and clean the extractor.
It is important to note that a blackhead extractor is not a painful process. Therefore if you experience pain or stubborn blackheads, it is 
best to seek out treatment from a professional, since this can be a sign of infection. Never use an extraction tool on blackheads that are red or irritated or on acne blemishes. This can not only make the blemish worse, but leave extensive scaring.
Considerations
Always sanitize a blackhead extractor before and after use. Hands should be thoroughly washed to prevent bacteria or germs from entering the extraction area — which can lead not only to acne, but serious infection. Frequent or stubborn blackheads might require a professional. Remember that a blackhead extractor is a surface solution to the problem, but without fighting the source, blackheads will not be eliminated.