What Are Blackheads? A Deep Dive into the Causes

Blackheads, or "open comedones," are commonly found in oil-prone areas like the nose wings, forehead, and chin. When pores get blocked by oil and dead skin cells and are exposed to air, they oxidize, forming dark spots.

Causes include:

• ✅ Excessive oil production: Sebum mixes with dead skin, clogging pores.

• ✅ Abnormal keratin turnover: Buildup of dead skin cells obstructs pores.

• ✅ Environmental factors: Pollution, humid or dry climates disrupt oil balance.

• ✅ Hormonal fluctuations: Stress, puberty, or irregular routines stimulate sebum production.

• ✅ Wrong skincare products: Ingredients that clog pores or overly greasy products worsen the issue.

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Debunking Blackhead Skincare Myths—How Many Have You Fallen For?

❌ Myth 1: Squeezing blackheads is the fastest fix?

Wrong! Hand-squeezing can cause redness, enlarged pores, and even scars or hyperpigmentation.

❌ Myth 2: The more you wash your face, the better?

Over-cleansing damages the skin barrier, triggering a "rebound" sebum production that makes blackheads worse.

❌ Myth 3: Only oily skin gets blackheads?

Dry, sensitive, or combination skin can also develop blackheads due to improper cleansing or product misuse.

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How to Clear Blackheads? 5 Scientific Skincare Tips

✅ 1. Gentle Cleansing, Protect Your Skin Barrier

Opt for pH-balanced, soap-free, non-comedogenic cleansers to gently remove oil and dirt while preserving your skin’s natural barrier.

✅ 2. Salicylic Acid vs. Glycolic Acid—Which Is Right for You?

Exfoliation is a key weapon against blackheads, but how do salicylic acid (BHA) and glycolic acid (AHA) differ?

• Salicylic Acid

o Properties: Oil-soluble, penetrates pores to dissolve sebum.

o Suitable for: Oily skin, severe acne, or blackhead issues.

o Caution: May be slightly irritating; sensitive skin needs to build tolerance.

• Glycolic Acid

o Properties: Water-soluble, gently exfoliates surface dead skin, improving dullness and enlarged pores.

o Suitable for: All skin types, especially dry, sensitive skin, or first-time acid users.

o Benefits: Lower irritation, long-term use enhances skin radiance.

💡 Our Recommendation: Ankel Maria Exfoliating Renewal Essence

Ankel Maria Exfoliating Renewal Essence uses a low-concentration glycolic acid formula, designed for daily use to minimize irritation risk.

Usage Frequency:

Recommend 1–2 times per week for new users, adjusting based on skin tolerance. Overuse may weaken the skin barrier, causing dryness or sensitivity.

Precautions:

Glycolic acid increases sun sensitivity; without proper sun protection, it may raise the risk of sunburn or hyperpigmentation. Always pair with a non-comedogenic sunscreen afterward.

When used correctly, glycolic acid not only avoids harming the skin but also effectively improves blackheads, clogged pores, and overall skin texture.

✅ 3. Oil Control + Moisturizing, Balance Your Pore Ecosystem

Avoid skipping moisturizer out of fear of oil! Dryness triggers sebum overproduction, worsening blackheads. Choose lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers (e.g., with hyaluronic acid or panthenol) to stabilize skin.

✅ 4. Sun Protection, Prevent Pore Damage

UV rays break down collagen, accelerating pore enlargement and oxidation. Use physical or hybrid non-comedogenic sunscreens to shield your skin.

✅ 5. Regular Mud Masks, Deep Pore Cleansing

Use a mud mask with kaolin or activated charcoal once a week to absorb excess oil and impurities, keeping pores clear.

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Conclusion

Clearing blackheads and clogged pores takes time and consistency, relying on gentle cleansing, scientific exfoliation, moisturizing, sun protection, and regular deep care. Ankel Maria Exfoliating Renewal Essence, with glycolic acid at its core, offers a gentle yet effective solution to bid farewell to strawberry nose and welcome smooth, flawless skin!

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