How to Remove Blackheads (for Men) Without Damaging Your Skin

Blackheads are small, dark bumps that form when your pores get clogged with oil and dead skin. Though harmless, they can be stubborn—especially for men with facial hair.

They're most common on the face but can also appear on the chest, back, shoulders, and neck.

Removing blackheads in men is relatively simple. With some good habits, targeted products, and a little dose of our Blemish Serum, you won’t just beat blackheads, you’ll prevent them.

How to Remove Blackheads in 5 Minutes

What Causes Blackheads?

Removing blackheads starts by understanding them.

Blackheads form when a hair follicle becomes clogged or plugged. Each follicle contains one hair and a sebaceous gland, which produces oil. This oil (sebum) helps keep your skin soft.

Dead skin cells and oil collect in the opening (your pores), creating a bump. If these stay closed, it remains a whitehead. However, when it opens up, the air exposure causes it to become black.

Blackheads are related to:

• Excess oil production
• Buildup of Propionibacterium acnes on the skin
• Clogged hair follicles from dead skin cells
• Hormonal changes (teens, menstruation, birth control)
• Certain medications (corticosteroids, lithium, androgens)

Blackhead Treatment Options

Salicylic Acid

A go-to in many cleansers, salicylic acid clears out dead skin and oil before they clog your pores. Most products contain 0.5%–5%, but it can be drying—start every other day to see how your skin reacts.

Retinoids

Derived from vitamin A, retinoids boost cell turnover and keep pores clear. Some are available over the counter, but stronger ones require a prescription. Use at night, as they increase sun sensitivity.

Extraction

Professional blackhead extraction uses precise tools to safely remove buildup. DIY kits exist, but most dermatologists advise against at-home attempts to avoid scarring.

Chemical Peels

Often used for sun damage and mild scarring, peels can also clear pores and encourage new skin growth. Done in-office, they use acids like salicylic, glycolic, or retinoic—and can cause irritation, so consult a pro.

Skin Brushes

Used correctly, skin brushes exfoliate and help reduce buildup. But improper use can worsen acne. Always follow expert advice and moisturise afterwards.

Noncomedogenic Products

Look for the "noncomedogenic" label on cleansers, moisturisers, and makeup—they're formulated not to clog pores, helping prevent blackheads.

Want a natural way to fight beard-area blackheads? Our Healing Monk Blemish Serum is made for skin under facial hair—targeting clogged pores without the harshness.

Blackhead Prevention

Prevention is always better than the cure. Blackheads might feel like they come out of nowhere. But there are some very common things we do that massively increase the risk.

Try these blackhead prevention tips:

• Wash your face morning and evening (and your beard every few days).
• Always use alcohol-free skin products.
• Change your pillowcase every few days.
• Stop touching your face.
• Only use non-abrasive skin cleaners, rubbing in with your fingertips.

Certain foods can also increase the risk of acne. Common culprits include skimmed milk, chocolate, and carbohydrate-rich foods.

Clearer Skin, One Drop at a Time

Beneath your beard, your skin works hard to stay balanced—but oil buildup, clogged pores, and irritation can lead to stubborn blemishes.

The Healing Monk Blemish Serum is designed to support your skin’s natural healing with a potent blend of botanicals and antioxidants.

Ingredients like rosehip oil and black currant seed oil help calm inflammation and improve skin texture, while safflower oil unclogs pores and restores moisture. Lightweight and fast-absorbing, this serum gets to work without leaving residue—ideal for bearded skin that needs clarity without compromise.

Whether you're battling beard bumps or simply aiming for smoother skin, this serum rolls on easily and begins to soothe within hours. With consistent use, redness fades, texture improves, and blemishes heal faster. It’s gentle, effective, and crafted for beards that don’t want to sacrifice skin health.

Your Blackhead Removal Questions

What exactly are blackheads?

Blackheads form when pores get clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and debris. When the clog is exposed to air, it oxidises and turns dark—hence the name.

Why do I get blackheads under my beard?

Facial hair can trap oil and dead skin, making it harder for pores to stay clear. Without regular exfoliation or cleansing, blackheads can easily form beneath your beard.

Can I squeeze blackheads out?

It’s tempting—but not recommended. Squeezing can damage the skin, cause scarring, or push bacteria deeper. A targeted serum is a safer way to treat them.

Do blackheads mean my skin is dirty?

Not at all. Blackheads are more about oil and skin turnover than hygiene. Even people with clean skin can get them due to hormones, genetics, or grooming habits.

How long does it take to see results?

With consistent use of a good serum, many people see reduced blackheads and smoother skin in just a few days to a week.