Manhattan Dermatologist

Q: I hate blackheads! Any suggestions on how to get rid of them?

A: “Open comedones” or “blackheads” are one of the many different lesions present in acne. I see patients of all ages with acne, and often you just don’t “grow out of it” as patients used to be told.

There are many different ways to attack blackheads. First off, they can be treated with prescription medicines, such as the retinoids. These include Tazorac, Retin-A, Differin, Tretinoin. The best over-the-counter medicine for blackheads (and white heads) is topical salicylic acid. Usually available in 1-3% lotion, gel or wash.


If you can, considering seeing an esthetician. Usually the ones who work with dermatologists are best. Estheticians perform extractions and chemical peels which can be very helpful.


-Dr. Schweiger
Manhattan Dermatologist