Blackheads, Be Gone: The K-Beauty Secrets You Need to Know
Blackheads—those stubborn little dots that seem impossible to banish—are a universal skincare frustration. But before you start scrubbing your face raw or slapping on another pore strip, let’s get to the root of the issue.
Blackheads form when oil (sebum) and dead skin cells clog a pore. Unlike whiteheads, which are closed, blackheads are open to the air, causing oxidation that gives them their dark color. But what makes them worse? A mix of factors: hormonal fluctuations, diet, and improper skincare routines all play a role.
Hormonal changes (think puberty, pregnancy, or your cycle) send oil production into overdrive, while sugar, dairy, and high-glycemic foods may fuel the issue. Skincare sins—like over-exfoliating, skipping sunscreen, or using the wrong products—can also wreak havoc. And let’s not forget pollution and stress, which clog pores and send your oil glands into panic mode.
So how do we actually get rid of blackheads without causing more damage? Cult Beauty sat down with Elizabeth Japal, founder of The Derm Lab, to break down the common mistakes and the best blackhead-clearing solutions that reallywork.
Stop Making These 5 Skincare Mistakes
Over-Scrubbing
Abrasive exfoliators might feel satisfying, but they can actually irritate pores and make things worse. Instead, swap them for gentle yet effective BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), which penetrate deep into pores to dissolve excess oil. Try COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid (£26.00), a cult-favourite for refining skin texture.
Pore Strip Addiction
We know—watching those little dots disappear is addictive. But pore strips only remove the top layer of blackheads, leaving the root behind (and even stretching pores over time). Instead, opt for a K-beauty-approved pore-cleansing mask, like Herbivore Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clarity Mask (£44.00), which deeply detoxifies without drying.
Skipping Hydration
Stripping your skin of oil without replenishing moisture is a one-way ticket to more blackheads. Your skin will go into oil-production overdrive to compensate. Balance things out with a lightweight hydrator like Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturiser (£38.00), which delivers lightweight, oil-balancing hydration.
Forgetting Sunscreen
Sun exposure thickens oil in the pores, making them harder to clear. Look for non-comedogenic, lightweight sunscreens that won’t clog pores, like Mantle The SPF (£40.00), a hydrating yet non-greasy option.
Inconsistent Skincare Routine
Jumping from one ‘miracle’ product to the next is a recipe for irritation. Instead, commit to a steady routine that incorporates gentle cleansers, toners, and serums that work together over time. Try Kate Somerville EradiKate Daily Cleanser (£34.00), which purifies the skin without stripping its moisture barrier.
The K-Beauty Blackhead Routine That Actually Works
So, if pore strips and scrubs are a no-go, what’s the best way to really clear blackheads? Elizabeth Japal shares her expert-approved ingredients that get the job done without damaging the skin barrier:
Salicylic Acid
The gold standard for dissolving blackheads deep within the pores. Try REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic (£28.00), which combines BHAs and AHAs for a gentle yet powerful pore-refining effect.
Retinoids
Increase cell turnover to prevent blockages. A great option? Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil (£45.00), which delivers retinol in a calming, blue tansy-infused formula.
Niacinamide
Helps regulate oil production while reducing inflammation. Dr. Barbara Sturm’s The Better B Niacinamide Serum (£110.00), an advanced serum that refines pores while strengthening the skin barrier.
Clay Masks
Absorb excess oil and impurities, minimising pores over time. The Omorovicza Deep Cleansing Mask (£72.00), which uses Hungarian Moor Mud to detox and refine the skin.
Hydrating Toners & Serums
Keeping the skin balanced is key. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops (£31.00), which brightens and hydrates while minimizing pores.
