Dermatologists find that there are a few factors that combine to create blackheads. Excess oil production is a big one, especially when the seasons change. Dead skin buildup or heavy, pore-clogging skincare products can result in blockage. So can hormonal fluctuations due to stress or poor sleep.

When oil and dead skin accumulate faster than your skin sheds them naturally, pores become congested. If the clog stays beneath the surface, it becomes a whitehead. If it opens to the air, it becomes a blackhead.

Squeezing them. It’s tempting, we know, but digging at blackheads with your fingers can push bacteria deeper into the pore and irritate the surrounding skin. That inflammation can make the problem worse and even lead to scarring. Dermatologists remove blackheads using a sterile tool called a comedone extractor, which applies even pressure around the pore to release the blockage safely. If you’re going to attempt extraction at home, it’s best done after a hot shower when skin is softened—and ideally with a proper extractor tool instead of your fingernails. Even then, it’s easy to overdo it, so be careful.

Treating blackheads isn’t about aggressively attacking the pore. It’s about gradually clearing and preventing buildup. When used consistently, the right products will clear existing clogs and prevent new ones from forming.

If you’re dealing with stubborn clusters around the nose or chin, a dermatologist or licensed aesthetician can remove them safely. Professional extractions use sterile tools and controlled pressure to minimize irritation or damage to the skin. It’s the safest way to deal with deep or persistent blackheads.