We’ve all experienced blackheads before. While generally harmless, they can clog up and cause inflammation or infection.
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of blackhead removal facials available in Singapore, and what would work best for your skin type.
What are blackheads?
Blackheads, medically known as comedones, are a type of acne that manifests as small, dark bumps on the skin. They are usually formed when hair follicles in the skin become clogged with dead skin, sebum and dirt.
Contrary to popular belief, blackheads are not formed due to dirt, but get their dark colour when the open comedones oxidise from air exposure.
How skin type influences blackhead formation
As sebum production plays a part in how blackheads are formed, our skin type greatly influences blackhead formation.
Oily skin produces more sebum, which can easily clog pores and lead to more blackheads, especially around the T-zone (nose, forehead and chin).
Conversely, dry skin produces less sebum and is generally less prone to blackheads. That being said, blackheads can still form, especially in areas where dead skin cells accumulate.
Types of Blackhead Removal Facials
Blackheads are not permanent, but they can be recurring if not properly managed. Thankfully, they can be removed and kept under control with the right type of blackhead removal facial.
Facial Extractions
Facial extractions are the most common technique for removing impurities on the face, including blackheads. It involves the therapist manually unclogging pores and removing visible impurities from the skin for clearer, smoother skin.
It’s important that facial extractions are done properly to prevent damaging the skin or worsening your skin condition.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are treatments that involve chemicals of varying strengths and concentrations to exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin. This helps unclog pores that contribute to blackhead formation and improves overall skin texture. Chemical peels can be broadly classified into:
- Light peels – Light peels involve milder acids such as lactic acid, glycolic acid or salicylic acid. This allows it to treat mild imperfections and prevents blackheads.
- Medium peels – Medium peels are slightly stronger and penetrate deeper into the skin. This allows it to treat more severe skin issues and persistent blackheads.
When it comes to chemical peels, be mindful to take your skin sensitivity and skin type into consideration to prevent skin irritation or dryness. In general Asians should be more careful when choosing chemical peels as our skin is more sensitive; an option that’s too strong can cause hyperpigmentation.
We recommend choosing a peel with ingredients like AHAs and BHAs in controlled amounts, and of course, always make sure the procedure is performed by a professional.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure that involves a specialised device to exfoliate the skin. The handpiece usually sprays fine crystals or has a diamond-tipped attachment that gently sloughs off blackheads, dead skin and dirt. An in-built suction mechanism then vacuums the debris, revealing the renewed skin underneath.
Eliminating dead skin buildup helps improve the appearance of skin and reduce blackheads, refining and smoothing skin texture.
Choosing the Right Facial for Your Skin Type
Achieving clear, radiant and blackhead-free skin starts with finding the right facial for your specific skin concerns and skin type.
Facial for Oily Skin
Blackhead removal facials for oily skin typically include anti-acne properties that help reduce your likelihood of blackhead formation and ensuing breakouts.
The Signature Medical Peel is a treatment protocol developed by our in-house doctors for the acne and other skin conditions, including ageing skin and mild pigmentation. Medical-grade AHAs and BHAs are used for exfoliation, clearing blackheads and other acne marks. These are among the treatment’s benefits:
- Boosts skin cell renewal
- Sloughs away dead skin cells
- Controls oil production
- Kills acne-causing bacteria
- Boosts absorption of serums
- Lightens minor hyperpigmentation
- Refines fine lines
Facial for Dry Skin
Blackhead removal facials for dry skin generally include deep hydration for more luminous skin. The Intense Hydrating HA Facial uses exclusive hyaluronic acid products, researched and developed by our team of doctors, including our Intense Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum. These are some of the treatment’s benefits:
- Deep hydration for added suppleness
- Smoother, plumper skin
- Fine lines and wrinkles refined
- Anti-inflammatory
- Moderates skin sebum production
- Safe for all skin types
- Most beneficial for dry skin
Facial for Combination Skin
The Milk Peel & I2PL Treatment is a great option for all skin types, including combination skin. This synergistic procedure involves a mild lactic acid peel by steaming the skin with milk proteins to slough away dead skin cells and debris. This helps you achieve fairer and more supple skin.
The procedure is followed by I2PL application — an FDA-approved technology that emits pulsed lights at specific wavelengths to destroy acne-causing bacteria and, even out skin tone and lighten hyperpigmentation.
Overall, this treatment helps remove blackheads, smoothen skin texture and minimise pores. Other benefits include:
- Brightened skin tone
- Regulated sebum production
- Moisturised, supple skin
- Renewed skin
- Reduced skin redness
- Reduced vascular lesions
Blackhead removal facial in Singapore
In Singapore, we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to blackhead removal facials. However, you should remember that finding the best treatment hinges on understanding your unique skin type and specific needs — from chemical peels to advanced extraction techniques.
SkinLab is a medical spa with trained professionals and medical-grade solutions for every skin type and issue. Schedule a thorough skin analysis and personalised treatment plan today!