Does cleansing oil remove blackheads?

Why washing is not the whole treatment

A blackhead forms when excess oil and dead skin cells build up inside a pore. The opening widens, and the exposed buildup reacts with oxygen, turning dark. The black colour is not dirt, so scrubbing harder does not address what makes a blackhead form. Blackheads are a type of acne, also called open comedones, meaning open pores. Treating them means addressing that blockage rather than treating the dark colour as something to wash away.2

Does oil cleansing help with blackheads?

Gentle cleansing belongs in acne care, but an oil cleanser is not the treatment to choose for oily skin with blackheads. Choose products labelled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores, rather than assuming an oily texture will solve an oily pore. Cleansing and acne treatment have different jobs, even if skincare marketing prefers one bottle to hold several job titles. Do not replace an acne treatment with more frequent washing or a more forceful massage.13

How should you cleanse instead?

1. 1Choose a mild, gentle cleanser. For oily skin, use a gentle foaming face wash and look for oil free, noncomedogenic products.
2. 2Wash up to twice daily and after sweating. Remove makeup at the end of the day rather than sleeping in it.
3. 3Wash gently without scrubbing. Do not squeeze or pick blackheads; squeezing can cause infection or permanent scarring.
4. 4Apply moisturiser after cleansing to keep your skin hydrated, even if your skin is oily.

What should you use for blackheads?

A retinoid is a treatment recommended for blackheads. Retinoids are medicines applied to the skin, such as adapalene and tretinoin, that help prevent spots and reduce oiliness and inflammation. Salicylic acid is another acne treatment option, including in washes that help loosen the buildup of skin cells. A pharmacist can help you choose an acne treatment. Pick the cleanser for gentle washing and the treatment for acne, rather than giving the bathroom shelf a management problem.234

When should you stop or get help?

Salicylic acid can be too harsh for some skin. Stop using it, or use it less often, if irritation develops. A strong cleanser can also irritate skin and trigger increased oil production. See a doctor if acne is not improving with treatment, if you have many spots, or if spots are deep, painful or causing scars. Get medical advice for signs of infection, including hot, swollen or red skin, or if acne is affecting your mental health. Redness can be harder to see on brown and black skin.13