THE BLACKHEAD-BUSTING CHECKLIST

1 Buff it out

“Exfoliation removes that upper layer of dead skin cells,” says Dr Mahto. “You’re effectively preventing everything from old cells to dirt and make-up getting blocked inside the top layer of pores. There are two ways you can do this – mechanical exfoliation, such as a face scrub, and chemical exfoliation, using skincare acids to dissolve the dead skin cells.” TRY: La Roche-Posay UltraFine Scrub, £10

2 Ace your acids

Not a fan of scrubs? Then it’s time to work with the acids in your arsenal instead. “AHAs, or alpha-hydroxy acids, are really good for treating blackheads – they’re your glycolic acids and your lactic acids,” explains Dr Mahto. “Then you have BHAs, or beta-hydroxy acids, such as salicylic acid. They cause a chemical disintegration of the top layer of the skin cells, so they dissolve everything and that unblocks the pores.”

TRY: The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA, £5.80

3 Mask up

“If you have acne or blemishprone skin, using a clay mask once a week can be really beneficial. They’re super-effective when it comes to drawing impurities out of the skin and reducing oil production,” says Dr Mahto. “Exfoliate before applying the mask, as this will allow it to really penetrate the skin.” TRY: Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask To Clear Pores, £24

4 Rely on retinoids

“Retinoids are great if you have blackhead-type acne, or a predisposition to blackheads,” explains Dr Mahto. “They are vitamin A-based formulas and cause an accelerated exfoliation, helping to de-clog stubborn pores. You have to be patient, though, as they take about 12 weeks to kick in.” TRY: Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum, £70