
A simulation has revealed that the usual way people remove blackheads might actually make them worse.
Skincare has become much more popular in recent years, with many people following strict morning and night routines. This is a good thing—taking care of your skin can help prevent wrinkles, stop breakouts, and even reduce scars.
While more people now understand the importance of sunscreen to protect against sun damage, many still don’t know the right way to handle blackheads.
So, what exactly are blackheads? They happen when oil and dead skin cells clog hair follicles. When this mix is exposed to air, it turns dark, creating a blackhead.
Unlike pimples, blackheads aren’t as obvious or painful, so many people ignore them. But those who do try to remove them often just squeeze them out—which might work, but it’s not the best idea.
A viral TikTok video from MindMyst (with over 73 million views) shows why squeezing isn’t the safest method. It explains that pressing too hard can damage the pore, leaving a hole in the skin and making it harder to heal. Worse, it can push the blackhead deeper, making the problem more serious.
So, what’s the right way to remove blackheads? The video suggests holding your face six to eight inches above a pot of steaming water. Then, drape a towel over your head to trap the steam. The heat opens pores and softens blackheads, making them easier to remove. After steaming, using a clay mask or gentle exfoliation can help.
Other good methods include washing your face with a mild cleanser, using products with salicylic acid, or even a blackhead extractor tool.
People were surprised by how simple the steam method was. One person commented, “Wow, never heard of this before!” while another called it “really helpful.” But not everyone had success—one user said, “I tried it, and the blackhead is still there.” Another suggested, “Regular gentle exfoliation works better.”
Still, the steam-and-towel trick might be worth trying—it could be a gentler way to keep your skin clear.