Blackheads on the nose are something most people recognize, and they occur when pores become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. When the contents come into contact with air, it oxidizes and becomes dark, which appears as black dots. In this guide, you will learn exactly why blackheads form, how to get rid of them in a gentle way, and how to prevent new ones from appearing.
What are blackheads on the nose?
Blackheads, or comedones as they are called in skincare, form when pores are clogged by a mixture of sebum (fat that the skin produces naturally) and dead skin cells. When this mixture lies open in the pore and comes into contact with oxygen, it oxidizes and becomes dark. That is why you see the black dots on the nose, for example.
It is therefore not dirt, which many believe, but the body's own substances reacting with the air. Blackheads often appear in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) where the skin tends to be a bit oilier.
Different types of blackheads
There are two common types of blackheads, open and closed comedones. Both are caused by clogged pores, but they differ in appearance and how best to treat them.
- Blackheads – Open comedones: Appear as black dots, often on the nose, forehead, and chin. They are open at the skin's surface, which causes the sebum in the pore to oxidize and become dark.
- Whiteheads – Closed comedones: These are small, light bumps under the skin. They have a thin layer of skin covering the pore opening, which prevents oxygen from reaching in. Therefore, the contents remain light. Closed comedones can sometimes develop into pimples if they become inflamed.
Why do you get blackheads on the nose?
The nose is one of the areas where the skin has the most and largest sebaceous glands, making it extra vulnerable. When sebum production increases – due to hormones, heat, stress, or the wrong products – the pores have a harder time staying clean. Some common causes of blackheads are:
- Oily or combination skin with naturally high sebum production
- Hormonal changes, for example during puberty or the menstrual cycle
- Too heavy or comedogenic products that clog the pores
- Inadequate cleansing, especially in the evening when the day's makeup and sebum need to be dissolved
- Dead skin cells that are not exfoliated away regularly
Understanding the cause behind your enlarged pores makes it easier to choose the right routine – instead of chasing quick fixes that often do more harm than good.
How to get rid of blackheads on the nose
Getting rid of blackheads is not about quick fixes, but requires a combination of daily care and targeted treatments. Here is a suggestion for a routine that helps you both reduce and prevent blackheads.
Daily skincare routine
A consistent and balanced skincare routine is the foundation for keeping pores clean.
- Cleanse your face morning and evening
- Use products with salicylic acid (BHA)
- Exfoliate regularly but gently
- Moisturize to balance sebum production
Weekly routine
Complement your daily routine with more deep-cleansing efforts a couple of times a week.
- Use a clay mask for deep cleansing
- Try facial steaming to soften the pores
- Do a gentle pore cleansing
Prevent new blackheads
Once you have gotten your blackheads under control, the next step is to keep them away. Preventive care is about balance – keeping the pores clean without disrupting the skin's own protective barrier.
- Be consistent: a simple routine you actually follow beats an advanced routine you skip.
- Switch to light, non-comedogenic products that do not clog the pores.
- Exfoliate with peeling and exfoliation a couple of times a week to keep the pores free from dead skin cells.
- Always cleanse the skin in the evening, even on days you haven't worn makeup.
Recommended products for blackheads
Neutriherbs BHA Serum
Our effective serum with salicylic acid that gently dissolves blackheads and prevents new ones. Perfect for daily use on the nose and other problem areas.
Read more about salicylic acid (BHA) here.
Skinroller – Pink Clay Mask
Our Pink Clay Mask acts like a vacuum cleaner for the pores – it absorbs excess sebum, draws out impurities, and helps to reduce visible blackheads. At the same time, it moisturizes and calms the skin, making it perfect for both sensitive and combination skin.
Read more about the benefits of Pink Clay here.
Skinroller – Exfoliating facial cleanser
Our Brilliant Exfoliating Cleanser combines cleansing and peeling in one step. It removes dead skin cells, softens the skin, and provides a clearer skin tone. Enriched with vitamin E and calming cucumber extract for a fresh and moisturized feeling every day.
Find the right facial cleanser here.
Frequently asked questions about blackheads on the nose
Can blackheads disappear on their own?
In some cases, blackheads can loosen and disappear on their own, especially if the skin exfoliates naturally. But usually, they come back if you do not take care of the skin properly. To reduce blackheads over time, a regular skincare routine is needed with ingredients like salicylic acid (BHA), which dissolves clogged pores and prevents new ones from forming.
How do you get rid of pores on the nose?
It is not possible to remove pores completely; they are a natural part of the skin. However, you can reduce their visibility by keeping them clean from sebum and dirt. Ingredients like BHA acid, clay masks, and mild exfoliation help to clear the pores and make them less prominent. A moisturized skin with good balance also tends to give a smoother and less porous impression.
Do pore strips help against blackheads on the nose?
Pore strips can draw out superficial sebum and give a temporary feeling of cleaner skin, but they do not reach deeper into the pore and do not dissolve the cause of the blackheads. They can also irritate sensitive skin if used too often. A more gentle and long-term way is to use salicylic acid and regular exfoliation that actually works inside the pore.
Is it dangerous to squeeze blackheads?
Squeezing blackheads yourself can do more harm than good. You risk pressing bacteria deeper into the skin, creating inflammation, and in the worst case, scars. Rather let targeted products with BHA and clay masks do the job, and leave extractions to a skin therapist if you want professional help.
How quickly do you see results when treating blackheads?
It varies depending on skin type and how consistent you are with your routine. Many start to see improvements after 2–4 weeks, especially if they use products like salicylic acid and deep-cleansing masks. For long-lasting results, patience and regular skincare are required. It is better to work continuously than to look for quick fixes.
The skin therapist's best tips
- Do not squeeze the blackheads – it can damage the skin and worsen the problem through the spread of bacteria
- Use oil-based products that effectively reach down into the pores
- Be consistent with your skincare routine
- Protect the skin against sun and pollution
