What are blackheads and why do they form? Blackheads are one of the most common skin problems that many people struggle with, regardless of age or skin type. Although they are often associated with acne, they can also occur in adults, especially those with combination, oily, or dehydrated skin.

There are two basic types of blackheads:

• open comedones (blackheads) – these are small lesions with a dark center that are formed as a result of the oxidation of sebum and dead skin cells accumulated in the opening of the sebaceous gland,
• closed comedones (white lumps) – visible as small protrusions under the skin, formed when the opening of a pore becomes blocked by excess sebum and calloused epidermis.

The main causes of blackheads include:

• overproduction of sebum (oil),
• disorders of epidermal keratinization (i.e. excessive accumulation of dead cells),
• improper care – too aggressive or too heavy,
• the influence of external factors such as smog and oxidative stress,
• as well as a diet rich in simple sugars and dairy products.

In the following part of the article, as a cosmetologist, I will advise you on how to effectively care for skin prone to blackheads and which products – especially from the Orientana Tremella series – can help reduce imperfections.

Effective blackhead treatment – ​​step by step

Blackheads—both open (whiteheads) and closed—are one of the most common problems for combination and oily skin. While not always related to acne, their presence may indicate impaired sebaceous gland function, insufficient cleansing, or overly aggressive skincare. How can you effectively care for your skin to reduce their formation? Learn 4 key steps!

Cleansing – the basis of the fight against blackheads

Effective cleansing is the first and most important step in daily skincare. It's about thoroughly removing sebum, impurities, and makeup residue without damaging the hydrolipid barrier. Overly harsh detergents can dry out the skin, which paradoxically increases sebum production and worsens the problem of blackheads.

Recommended product:

Orientana Natural Facial Cleansing Foam
– A light formula based on mild cleansing ingredients gently removes impurities and unclogs pores without irritation. Ideal for daily use, morning and evening.

Exfoliation – removal of dead skin cells

Dead skin cells clog the sebaceous glands, which promotes the formation of blackheads. Instead of using harsh mechanical exfoliants, which can micro-damage the epidermis and spread bacteria, it's better to use gentle PHA acids or enzymes.

Recommended product:
Orientana Kali Musli Enzymatic Peeling
– Based on natural enzymes, it smoothes, brightens, and cleanses pores without the risk of irritation. Safe even for sensitive skin.

Moisturizing – the key to skin balance

Dry skin can react by overproducing sebum, which in turn exacerbates the problem of blackheads. Therefore, even oily skin needs moisture – light, non-comedogenic, and easily absorbed.

Recommended products:

• Orientana Serum-ampoule Moisturizing
  – contains a plant-based alternative to hyaluronic acid (Tremella fuciformis), deeply moisturizes and restores balance without burdening the skin.

• Orientana Serum Elixir Tremella Exosomes
  – advanced formula with plant exosomes supports regeneration and strengthens the skin’s protective barrier.

• Orientana Tremella Sebum Regulating Cream
  – the perfect day cream that moisturizes and at the same time reduces oiliness of the skin thanks to adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory ingredients.

Regulation and protection – prevention of blackhead formation

To limit the development of new blemishes, it's worth introducing ingredients with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and pH-balancing properties. This not only supports problematic skin but also provides effective prevention.

Recommended product:
Orientana Tremella Mask for Imperfections

– has antibacterial, soothing, and regulating properties. It restores the skin's proper pH, minimizes blackheads, and reduces the risk of their formation. Ideal for use 2–3 times a week as a complementary skincare routine.

Effective anti-blackhead care is not about aggressive cleansing, but a smart, multi-step strategy:
✔ gentle cleansing,
✔ gentle exfoliation,
✔ proper hydration,
✔ skin regulation and protection.

With consistent care, you can notice a significant improvement in skin texture, less oiliness, and a reduction in blackheads – without any dryness or irritation.

Ingredients that Orientana uses to fight imperfections

Orientana cosmetics are designed to provide effective yet gentle care for problematic skin. The brand combines natural plant ingredients with modern active complexes that address the causes of imperfections: excessive sebum secretion, clogged pores, post-inflammatory discoloration, micro-inflammation, and blackheads. Here are the key ingredients used in Orientana's formulas:

Pore ​​Out Complex

An advanced plant complex that:

• regulates sebum secretion ,
• cleanses the sebaceous glands ,
• reduces the visibility of pores ,
• prevents the formation of new blackheads .

It works on multiple levels, supporting skin detoxification and restoring its healthy structure. Regular use of Pore Out™ products helps reduce imperfections and improve the overall condition of oily and combination skin.

Niacinamide (vitamin B3)

Multi-purpose active ingredient with proven effectiveness:

• normalizes sebum production ,
• narrows enlarged pores ,
• relieves inflammation ,
• lightens acne discolorations .

Niacinamide also has an anti-aging effect and strengthens the hydrolipid barrier, which is why it is also effective in the care of sensitive and mature skin.

Lactic acid (AHA)

One of the mildest alpha hydroxy acids that:

• exfoliates dead skin cells ,
• lightens acne discolorations ,
• supports cell renewal ,
• moisturizes the skin .

Thanks to its high tolerance, it is recommended for skin prone to irritation and as an alternative to more irritating AHA and BHA acids.

Azelaic acid

A versatile ingredient with anti-acne and depigmenting properties.
Helps:

• reduce the formation of pimples ,
• lighten post-inflammatory discolorations ,
• has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties ,
• evens out skin tone .

Recommended especially for acne with accompanying redness and skin with symptoms of rosacea.

Tamanu oil

Natural oil with strong therapeutic properties:

• has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties ,
• supports the healing of skin lesions ,
• soothes irritations ,
• accelerates the regeneration of the epidermis .

It is non-comedogenic and well tolerated even by oily skin, making it suitable for the care of skin with imperfections.

The most common mistakes in skin care for blackheads

Blackheads, or clogged pores, are one of the most common aesthetic problems among both teenagers and adults. Although many people use specialized cosmetics, they often make mistakes that, instead of improving their skin's condition, actually worsen the problem. Below, we present the most common mistakes in caring for blackhead-prone skin.

Too aggressive cleansing

It seems that since blackheads are the result of clogged pores, the more vigorous the cleansing, the better the results. Unfortunately, this is a myth. Excessive use of harsh gels, mechanical exfoliators, or sonic brushes can damage the skin's hydrolipid barrier. The result? The skin becomes irritated, dehydrated, and in response to the aggression, it begins to produce even more sebum – which only exacerbates the blackhead problem.

Washing your face too often or using cosmetics with high alcohol concentrations can also lead to excessive skin dryness, which over time begins to flake and further clog pores. Instead of cleansing your skin to a squeaky clean, it's better to opt for gentle cleansers, such as those based on gluconolactone, low-concentration salicylic acid, or anti-inflammatory plant extracts.

Giving up moisturizing

Many people with oily, blackhead-prone skin are wary of moisturizing, mistakenly believing that creams can exacerbate oiliness and worsen the problem. This is a serious mistake! Moisturizing is a key element of healthy skincare—even for problematic skin.

Lack of adequate hydration leads to dehydration of the epidermis, which in turn triggers a compensatory mechanism: the sebaceous glands begin to produce more sebum to compensate for the lack of protective barrier. Paradoxically, this reaction increases skin shine and promotes the formation of further blackheads. Light moisturizing creams, such as those based on hyaluronic acid, trehalose, panthenol, or ceramides, are suitable, as they do not clog pores while supporting the regeneration of the skin barrier.

Using comedogenic cosmetics

Blackhead-prone skin requires special attention when choosing cosmetics—both skincare and makeup. Unfortunately, many people unknowingly use products containing comedogenic ingredients, meaning they can clog pores and promote blemishes.

The most comedogenic ingredients include coconut oil, lanolin, and some silicones and synthetic waxes. It's worth analyzing INCI ingredients using available apps and databases. Cosmetics with light emollients (e.g., squalane, jojoba oil) and sebum-regulating and anti-inflammatory substances, such as niacinamide or green tea extract, are a good choice.

Irregular use of care

Blackheads can only be defeated with consistency. Unfortunately, many people only use cosmetics when the problem worsens, neglecting their daily skincare routine. Skin requires constant support, and the effects of active ingredients such as acids, retinoids, and adaptogens are only visible after prolonged use.

Irregular cleansing, exfoliation, and moisturizing disrupt the skin's regeneration process, leading to reappearance of imperfections. Equally problematic is frequently changing cosmetics before they have a chance to work—skin needs time to respond to a specific treatment. Therefore, it's worth creating a simple but consistent skincare routine—ideally based on your skin's needs, not on current trends.

My advice as a cosmetologist: what should I use on blackheads to see results?

Blackheads are a common problem that requires conscious and consistent care. Here are three pillars of effective action:

1. Regular but gentle care

Over-cleansing and aggressive exfoliation can only worsen your skin's condition. Choose:

• mild cleansing gels or foams , e.g. with gluconolactone,
• tonics with niacinamide or mandelic acid , which regulate sebum and unclog pores,
• enzymatic peels once or twice a week.

2. Products selected for your skin type

Blackheads don't only appear in oily skin. This is why:

• For oily/combination skin, the Tremella series is perfect.
• for dry/sensitive skin – formulas with emollients, e.g. Kali Musli series
• H10 retinol serum - helps with exfoliation and regulation of keratosis without irritation

3. Patience and regularity

Results will appear after a few weeks of regular use. Don't change your cosmetics too often – your skin needs time to adapt. Also remember:

• sun protection SPF 30–50 – especially when using acids and retinoids,
• moisturizing , even with oily skin – dehydrated skin can produce more sebum.

In summary: The key is gentle cleansing, active ingredients that regulate sebum and keratinization, and persistence. Blackheads don't disappear overnight, but a well-maintained skincare routine can work wonders.