She Strengthens

The Annoying Truth About Blackheads on Cheeks

Blackheads on cheeks are a frustrating skin issue that can be difficult to get rid of. Unlike their trendy cousin, faux freckles, blackheads are not celebrated as a cute makeup trend. Instead, they’re an annoying member of the acne family that can be painful and affect anyone, regardless of skin type.

What Are Blackheads?

Blackheads are a type of non-inflammatory acne that occurs when dirt gets into your pores. They form when pores become clogged with dead skin cells and sebum, a naturally occurring oil in your skin. Unlike whiteheads, which occur when the pore is closed, blackheads take root when the pore is stretched open. When the sebum in the open pore is exposed to air, it turns a dark color, resulting in a blackhead.

Why Do Blackheads Appear on Cheeks?

The T-zone of your face, including your forehead, nose, and chin area, is prone to blackheads due to overactive sebaceous glands. However, the cheeks are also an area that can overproduce oil, leading to blackheads. People with oily skin may be more prone to acne, including blackheads, because their sebaceous glands produce excess oil.

Causes of Blackheads on Cheeks

There are several reasons why you may get blackheads on your cheeks. While some causes are genetic, behavioral factors also play a role. Here are the main causes of blackheads on your cheeks:

• Genetics: If one of your parents has oily skin that produces excess sebum, you may be genetically prone to blackheads.
• Picking: Squeezing or picking at your skin to remove a stubborn blackhead can result in long-term damage and enlarge the pore.
• Face masks: Wearing a face mask for extended periods can cause friction on your cheeks, leading to blackheads.
• Sleeping with makeup on: Not washing your face before bed can cause blackheads on your cheeks.
• Pore-clogging products: Using products that aren’t oil-free can cause blackheads, depending on your skin type.
• Harsh products: Products that dry out your skin can lead to more sebum production and blackheads.

Home Remedies for Blackheads on Cheeks

Before seeking professional help, there are several natural remedies you can try to get rid of blackheads on your cheeks. Here are some effective home remedies:

• Salicylic acid: Products containing salicylic acid target blackheads and whiteheads by breaking down excess oil and dead skin cells.
• Face masks: Moisturizing and mattifying face masks can clean out your pores and even shrink them over time.
• Exfoliation: Exfoliating once a week can help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
• Oil cleansing: Using non-comedogenic oils can help dissolve the oils that clog your pores.
• Blackhead vacuum tool: A blackhead vacuum tool can be an effective at-home tool if used in conjunction with other treatment methods.
• Retinoids: Retinoids can help clean out pores and even out skin texture.

Professional Treatments for Blackheads on Cheeks

If you’re still noticing persistent blackheads, you may want to seek a skin expert like a dermatologist or aesthetician. Here are some professional treatments that can help:

• Clinical chemical peel: A clinical-strength chemical peel can exfoliate off the top layer of skin, helping to clear out pores and reduce the appearance of large pores.
• Professional extraction: A dermatologist or aesthetician can safely extract deep blackheads on your cheeks.
• Hydrafacial: A hydrafacial uses a medical-grade device to cleanse and exfoliate your skin with serums, sucking out dirt and debris from your pores.
• Dermabrasion: Dermabrasion can remove outer layers of the skin to prevent blackheads on the cheeks.

Preventing the Return of Blackheads

To prevent blackheads from coming back, it’s essential to maintain a consistent skincare routine. Here are some tips:

• Exfoliate and use a mask regularly.
• Consult your dermatologist if you’re unsure about the best treatment for your skin.
• Avoid picking at your face, as this can cause long-term damage and enlarge pores.

By understanding the causes of blackheads on cheeks and trying out these home remedies and professional treatments, you can achieve clearer skin and prevent the return of those pesky blackheads.