Blackheads and Whiteheads: Managing Comedones in Layers

Both are comedones: follicular openings blocked by keratin + sebum + corneocytes. Open comedones (blackheads) oxidize and darken; closed ones (whiteheads) stay sealed. They sit at the mildest end of the acne spectrum, but mishandling — squeezing, harsh stripping — escalates them into inflammatory acne.

1. Daily: gentle cleansing plus regular low-strength salicylic/AHA or retinoid care — dissolving plugs is the foundation of every layer.
2. Professional extraction: instrument clearance (comedone extractors, ultrasonic spatula, vacuum cleansing) under proper disinfection — within salon scope; bare-hand squeezing is out.
3. Peels: graded in-clinic AHA/salicylic peels are efficient for closed comedones.
4. Medical: persistent or widespread comedonal acne moves to prescription retinoid pathways.
5. Devices: post-inflammatory redness and marks finish with IPL/DPL (LEIJEX OPT platform).

“Blackhead removal” is a high-frequency salon entry service: soften first (steam/enzymes), always soothe and repair after (cooling + needle-free infusion), restrained frequency (2-4 weeks on the nose), and include homecare education — that is what builds retention, not “one-session eradication”.

Can blackheads be cured?

No. Sebum keeps flowing and plugs keep forming; the goal is slower formation, fewer blockages, less visibility. “Permanent removal” claims are unreliable.

Are pore strips good?

Visually satisfying short-term, but they tear the barrier and follicular openings and speed the next cycle — not recommended as routine.

• Acne by Grade
• Oily Skin
• Enlarged Pores