Which cleanser should be used against blackheads?

Often mistaken for sebaceous filaments, blackheads, or open comedones, are retentional lesions of the epidermis that take the form of small dark bumps. They appear when a large amount of sebum and/or an excess of dead cells accumulate and block a pore, thus creating a plug within the hair follicle. Under the effect of this accumulation, the pore widens, exposing the sebum to the air which oxidises it and gives it its characteristic black colour. Blackheads are primarily found in the T-zone of the skin, that is, on the forehead, the nose and the chin, where the concentration of sebaceous glands is the highest. Several elements can cause hyperseborrhoea or a slowdown in cell renewal, and thus the appearance of blackheads, such as genetic factors, hormonal factors, diet, high exposure to pollution or sunlight...

To prevent and eliminate blackheads, it is crucial to provide the skin with a gentle yet effective cleansing.

Cleansing gels, often recommended for combination to oily skin types, are generally the most suitable cleansing products to combat blackheads. Thanks to their gel-like and fluid texture, they effectively lift impurities and excess sebum accumulated in the pores, resulting in clearer skin free from blackheads. Contrary to what one might think, it is important to choose a gentle cleanser, even when dealing with blackheads. Products that are too harsh, containing ingredients such as sulfates, can weaken the skin barrier and trigger a rebound effect in sebum production, ultimately leading to more blackheads in the long run.

If you're seeking a cleanser capable of combating blackheads, it's also crucial to consider the active ingredients it contains. Certain molecules, such as zinc or succinic acid, target excess sebum and aid in normalising the appearance of pores, thereby reducing blackheads. Others, like fruit acids, for instance, glycolic acid or lactic acid, speed up cell renewal, which helps to smooth the skin texture and prevent the build-up of dead cells. Lastly, it's of course essential to opt for a non-comedogenic cleanser, that is, one that does not form an occlusive film on the skin's surface.

We offer several cleansers at Typology, some of which are particularly suitable for individuals prone to blackheads.