How to Get Rid of Blackheads When Your Skin is Sensitive

Last Updated: August 25, 2021 References

Blackheads happen when your pores get clogged with excess oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. When the pores are clogged but stay open, the buildups look like tiny black dots on your skin. They usually appear on your face, but it’s also pretty common to get them on your back. If you have sensitive skin, treating any type of acne is more complicated than usual. Luckily, blackheads are a pretty mild form of acne, so you can definitely still get rid of those pesky little dots! Try some of the tips and tricks on this list to treat and prevent blackheads.

1

Unclog pores with a comedone extractor.

Comedone extractors can safely remove blackhead buildups. Purchase a comedone extractor and soak it in rubbing alcohol for 1 minute to sanitize it. Position the extractor’s loop around the end of the blackhead you want to remove, then gently press down at different angles to push the buildup out of your skin.^{[1]
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- Comedone is just a scientific term for blackheads and other types of acne.
- Sanitize the extractor between each use to avoid transferring oils and bacteria to your skin.
- Never try to squeeze blackheads out with your fingers. You can transfer lots of dirt and oils to your pores this way and just make the problem worse.

2

Wash your skin 1-2 times a day.

Use a mild, non-drying soap to avoid irritating your sensitive skin. Wash the area with blackheads gently, rubbing the soap onto your skin in circular motions, and pat your skin dry with a clean towel. Don’t scrub too hard or wash your skin more than twice a day to avoid hurting it.^{[2]
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MedlinePlus
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- Make sure to wash your skin whenever you finish any type of exercise as well.
- Note that most treatments for blackheads don’t get rid of them right away. The key is to stick to a routine to keep your skin clean and they should eventually go away over time.

3

Exfoliate your skin 1-2 times a week.

Too much exfoliating can actually cause more blackheads. Look for an organic exfoliating scrub formulated for sensitive skin. Gently wash the affected area with it up to twice a week. Any more than that, and you risk drying out your skin, which leads to more oil production and blackheads.^{[3]
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Cleveland Clinic
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- Exfoliating scrubs that contain lactic acid, honey, and antioxidants are typically better for sensitive skin.

4

Shampoo oily hair daily.

If you have oily hair, it can transfer the oil to your skin and clog pores. Use a shampoo formulated for oily hair. Gently scrub it into your hair to get a good lather going, then rinse it out thoroughly.^{[4]
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MedlinePlus
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- Make sure to use a gentle shampoo if the skin of your scalp is also really sensitive. Shampoos that contain natural ingredients like amino acids and coconut oil are a good option.

5

Keep long hair out of your face.

This prevents the transfer of dirt and grease to your skin. Tie back really long hair in a ponytail or bun to keep it off your face. Comb back medium-length hair to tame it and keep it off your forehead.^{[5]
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6

Use non-comedogenic makeup and skin products.

These are specifically designed to not clog your pores. Stop using regular makeup, moisturizers, and sunscreens — they all have the potential to clog your pores. Replace any products you use daily or often with a non-comedogenic variety.^{[6]
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Cleveland Clinic
Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals
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- Comedogenic just means it tends to cause blackheads and other acne, so non-comedogenic is the opposite.
- Instead of sunscreen, use a non-comedogenic moisturizer with an SPF of at least 30.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before you apply any skin products to avoid transferring oils and bacteria to your skin.

7

Remove any makeup before you go to sleep.

Even non-comedogenic makeup can clog pores if you leave it on too long. Make sure to use a gentle makeup remover to take it off or wash it off each night before you go to sleep. In general, avoid wearing makeup unless you really want to or have to.^{[7]
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- Washing your face before bed is a good time to do it, even if you aren’t wearing makeup.

8

Clean glasses and sunglasses.

Dirty, oily eyewear can contribute to clogged pores. If you wear glasses or sunglasses daily or often, clean off the frames with glasses cleaner or warm water and dish soap before you put them on. Pay special attention to the areas that sit on your face, like the nose bridge.^{[8]
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9

Wear loose-fitting clothes.

Tight clothes suffocate your pores and can contain dirt and oils. Especially if you get blackheads on your back, avoid tight clothes that can make the condition worse. If you get blackheads on your face, don’t wear headbands and hats.^{[9]
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- Make sure any clothes you wear are clean, as well.

10

See a dermatologist for stubborn blackheads.

If home treatments don’t work after 6-8 weeks, see a professional. A dermatologist can either extract your blackheads or prescribe you a treatment that’s gentle on your sensitive skin. They can also give you more personalized tips for blackhead prevention.^{[10]
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American Academy of Dermatology
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- Dermatologists have special tools and lots of experience extracting blackheads, so they can usually clear up your condition with no problems.

Warnings

For people with normal skin, dermatologists often recommend cleansers that contain alpha or beta hydroxy acid, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide. However, since you have sensitive skin, it’s better to avoid these types of products, as they can cause a lot of dryness and irritation.^{[11]
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Mayo Clinic
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