Here's how to tackle blackheads with Korean skincare

What are blackheads and why do you get them?

What is a blackhead?

A blackhead is a clogged pore in the skin, caused by a mixture of sebum (oil), dead skin cells, and sometimes dirt. There are two main types:

• Open blackheads (black). Sebum and cells are exposed to air, causing them to oxidize and turn dark.
• Closed blackheads (white). The content is under the skin and is therefore lighter.

Blackheads are not dangerous but can be perceived as bothersome, especially in the T-zone where sebum production is higher.

Why do you get blackheads on the face – especially on the nose?

Blackheads often occur where the skin produces the most sebum – nose, forehead, and chin. The reason the nose is particularly affected is that the pores there are larger and more easily collect sebum and dirt.

Common causes of blackheads

• Overproduction of sebum (often hormonal or genetic)
• Insufficient cleansing
• Build-up of dead skin cells
• Use of pore-clogging products (comedogenic)
• Air pollution and environmental impact

With the right skincare, especially according to Korean methods focusing on cleansing and moisture balance, blackheads can be both prevented and treated.

How to get rid of blackheads

How to remove blackheads with Korean skincare?

Korean skincare focuses on treating the cause of blackheads rather than just removing them temporarily. The key is a balanced routine focusing on cleansing, gentle exfoliation, and moisture.

Here's how

1. Double cleansing. First, use an oil-based cleanser to dissolve sebum and makeup, followed by a water-based cleanser that removes sweat and dirt.
2. Exfoliate gently. Choose products with BHA (salicylic acid) that dissolve sebum in the pores without irritating the skin. Korean brands often offer mild acids in toner or pad form.
3. Use a deep-cleansing face mask. A clay or charcoal mask 1–2 times a week helps to draw out blackheads and reduce the visibility of pores.
4. Moisturize the skin. A good moisture balance signals the skin to reduce sebum production, preventing new blackheads. Choose non-comedogenic creams or gels.

Korean skincare is extra effective thanks to the layering method and mild yet active ingredients.

How to remove blackheads at home

Removing blackheads at home is fine if done gently and with the right products. Avoid squeezing with fingers as it can damage the skin and create inflammation.

Here's how to do it at home

• Always cleanse the skin thoroughly before you start.
• Apply a warm towel for a few minutes to soften the skin and open the pores.
• Use an exfoliating product with BHA to dissolve sebum. Korean exfoliating pads are perfect for this.
• If you want to use tools (e.g., comedone extractor), make sure they are cleaned and that you are careful.
• Calm the skin afterward with a moisturizing toner and hydrating gel or cream.

Avoid strong peels or drying products - they can do more harm than good.

How do you remove blackheads on the nose?

The nose is a common problem area, but also rewarding to treat with the right steps. Follow these steps for the best results.

• Perform a thorough double cleansing daily.
• Exfoliate the area 2-3 times a week with a BHA-based toner.
• Use a clay mask or pore-cleansing mask once a week, focusing on the nose.
• Always finish with a light moisturizer to restore the skin barrier.

Tip! Products with ingredients like tea tree, niacinamide, or green tea are particularly good for keeping the nose clear and balanced.

Korean skincare methods to get rid of blackheads

How does double cleansing work against blackheads?

Double cleansing is a fundamental method in Korean skincare that effectively removes dirt, oil, and residues that can cause blackheads. It consists of two steps.

• Oil-based cleansing. Dissolves sebum, SPF and makeup even from the pores.
• Water-based cleansing. Removes sweat, dirt, and remaining residues.

Together, they cleanse the skin gently but thoroughly without drying it out. The result is cleaner pores and a reduced risk of blockages.

Which ingredients in Korean skincare help against blackheads?

K-beauty is known for using effective yet gentle ingredients. Here are some that specifically help against blackheads.

• BHA (salicylic acid). Penetrates deep into the pores and dissolves sebum.
• AHA (e.g., glycolic acid). Removes dead skin cells on the surface and evens out skin tone.
• Niacinamide. Regulates sebum production and reduces the visibility of pores.
• Tea tree extract. Has antibacterial properties and soothes the skin.
• Green tea and centella asiatica. Counteracts irritation and strengthens the skin barrier.

Products with these ingredients can often be used daily, thanks to the gentle formulation in Korean skincare.

How are face masks and exfoliation used in a Korean routine?

Face masks and exfoliation are used as complementary steps 2-3 times a week to deeply cleanse the skin and counteract blackheads.

Here's how

• Exfoliate first with a chemical exfoliant, preferably in toner or pad form.
• Then apply a mask, such as a clay mask or charcoal mask, that draws out dirt and reduces clogged pores.
• After the mask, you can soothe the skin with a Essence or sheet mask to hydrate and balance.

The Korean philosophy is about combining cleansing, treatment, and hydration in multiple layers – without stressing the skin.

Common mistakes and what you should avoid

Should you squeeze blackheads – or leave them alone?

It can be tempting to squeeze blackheads, but it's rarely a good idea. Squeezing can:

• Damage the skin and cause inflammation
• Lead to scars or hyperpigmentation
• Push bacteria deeper into the pore

If you still want to remove a blackhead mechanically – do it with a clean tool, after the skin has been cleansed and softened with a warm towel. The best is to use products that gently dissolve the blackhead over time, such as salicylic acid or clay masks.

Why do some products not work or make the problem worse?

Many products that promise “quick results” can actually irritate the skin or dry it out, leading to:

• Increased sebum production
• Impaired skin barrier
• More blackheads and impurities

Common mistakes include using too strong exfoliating products too often, skipping moisture, or using comedogenic creams. Korean skincare emphasizes balance: cleanse, treat, and hydrate – every day.

Is it true that oily skin causes blackheads?

Not really. Oily skin is more prone to blackheads because excess sebum can clog pores. But the problem is not the oil itself but the imbalance.

Drying out the skin with strong products can lead to even more oiliness. Therefore, it's important to:

• Hydrate, even if you have oily skin
• Choose products with balancing ingredients like niacinamide
• Avoid alcohol-based products that disrupt the skin's natural barrier

How to prevent blackheads in the long term

How do you avoid blackheads in the future?

Getting rid of blackheads is one thing, but keeping the skin free from new ones requires consistency. Here are some fundamental habits that make a difference.

• Double cleansing every evening. Keeps pores free from sebum and dirt.
• Regular exfoliation (1–3 times/week). Prevents dead skin cells from clogging the pores.
• Hydration. Even oily skin needs moisture. A hydrated skin produces less excess oil.
• Sunscreen every day. The sun can thicken the skin and worsen blackheads – use SPF daily.
• Non-comedogenic products. Choose products that do not clog pores.

By maintaining a consistent and gentle skincare routine, you avoid having to “start over” all the time.

Tips for blackhead-free skin with a Korean skincare routine

A Korean skincare routine is based on multiple layers and a long-term approach. Here's an example of how such a routine can look:

• Oil-based cleansing (evening)
• Water-based cleansing
• Exfoliating toner or pads (2–3 times/week)
• Essence or serum with BHA, niacinamide, or green tea
• Sheet mask (1–2 times/week)
• Light moisturizer or gel
• Sunscreen (in the morning)

K-beauty is not about being extreme, but about understanding the skin and adapting the routine. Regularity is more important than the number of products.