How to Get a Blackhead out of An Ear
Summary on How to Get a Blackhead Out of an Ear (Postdawn’s Pick)
- Ear blackheads form due to clogged pores from oil, dead skin, and external irritants like earbuds and hair products.
- Safe removal starts with skin preparation using warm compresses and gentle, sanitized tools—never squeeze with fingers.
- Topical ingredients like salicylic acid, retinoids, and niacinamide help treat and prevent blackheads in the ear area.
- Avoid inserting cotton swabs or abrasive products inside the ear; proper hygiene and ear-safe cleansers are essential.
- Consult a dermatologist for recurring, painful, or deep blackheads to prevent damage and ensure safe extraction.
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Blackheads in the ear are not only frustrating but also surprisingly common. These stubborn clogged pores can develop on the outer ear, behind the ear, or even inside the ear canal due to a combination of oil, dead skin cells, and environmental buildup. Unlike blackheads on the face, those in the ear can be more difficult to reach and treat. In this article, we’ll explore safe, dermatologist-approved techniques for removing blackheads from the ear, along with long-term prevention strategies.
What Causes Blackheads in the Ear?
Blackheads are a type of comedone that form when hair follicles become clogged with sebum (oil), dead skin, and bacteria. The ear—particularly the outer folds and entrance to the ear canal—has sebaceous glands just like the face. When oil builds up and is exposed to air, it oxidizes and turns dark, forming a blackhead.
Factors that contribute to ear blackheads include poor ear hygiene, excessive earphone or earbud use, infrequent cleansing, oily skin, and the use of heavy hair products. According to Dermatology Times, even hair that constantly brushes against the ears can trap oils and cause breakouts in this sensitive area.
Is It Safe to Remove a Blackhead from the Ear?
While it is possible to safely remove blackheads from the ear, doing so requires extra care due to the sensitive nature of the ear’s skin and cartilage. The biggest concern is causing irritation or infection by using unsanitary tools or excessive pressure. Dermatologists warn against using fingernails or sharp objects that can damage the thin skin or puncture the ear canal.
Instead, experts recommend using gentle techniques and sterile tools. For deeper or painful blackheads, professional help is always the safest route. SELF Magazine emphasizes that attempting to pop or squeeze ear blackheads may do more harm than good and potentially push bacteria deeper into the skin.
Signs You Should Leave It Alone (or Seek Help)
Not all blackheads require immediate removal. If the blackhead is deep, painful, red, or located in a hard-to-see or reach area (like deep inside the ear canal), it’s best to avoid self-treatment. Signs that you should consult a dermatologist include:
- Persistent or recurrent blackheads in the ear
- Swelling or infection around the blackhead
- Pain, drainage, or pus from the area
- History of skin sensitivity or eczema in the ears
A skin specialist can use magnification and sterilized extraction tools to safely remove comedones without damaging nearby tissue. For repeated occurrences, they may suggest prescription creams with retinoids or benzoyl peroxide.
How to Prepare Your Skin Before Removing an Ear Blackhead
Before attempting to remove an ear blackhead, it's important to soften the skin and clean the area. Start by gently washing your ears with a mild cleanser formulated for sensitive or acne-prone skin. Avoid overly perfumed or alcohol-based products.
Next, apply a warm compress to the affected ear. This helps open the pores and makes extraction easier. Soak a clean washcloth in warm water, wring out the excess, and hold it against your ear for 5–10 minutes. This technique is often recommended by dermatologists as a safe way to loosen comedones and minimize trauma to the skin.
Warm Compress: A Gentle First Step
A warm compress is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prepare an ear blackhead for removal. It works by relaxing the skin and softening the debris inside the pore. You can use a standard washcloth or cotton pad soaked in warm (not hot) water. Some people choose to add chamomile tea or green tea for added antibacterial properties.
Apply gentle pressure without rubbing, and avoid forcing the blackhead out. According to Byrdie, this step can be repeated 2–3 times a day if you're not ready for manual extraction yet. Pair this with over-the-counter salicylic acid or glycolic acid cleansers to further support unclogging the pore over time.
Safe Extraction Methods for Ear Blackheads
When you're ready to extract a blackhead from the ear, always use clean tools and gentle pressure. Blackhead extractor tools with a small loop on the end can help press around the clogged pore without causing trauma. Make sure the tool is disinfected with alcohol beforehand.
Follow these steps for safe removal:
- Use a magnifying mirror or ask someone to assist you.
- Apply a warm compress for 5–10 minutes.
- Place the looped extractor around the blackhead and gently press down.
- Clean the area immediately with a gentle toner or witch hazel.
Avoid picking with your nails or using tweezers inside the ear canal. If the blackhead doesn’t come out easily, don’t force it. According to Insider, repeated pressure can rupture the follicle wall, leading to inflammation or infection.
You're probably reading this because you already have blackhead in your ear, but here's what extracting blackhead out of ear would really look like. Wait, why is this so satisfying?
The Best Tools for Removing Blackheads from Ears
Choosing the right tools is crucial for ear-safe blackhead removal. Comedone extractors with looped ends are preferred by professionals for their ability to apply even pressure without damaging the skin. Avoid tools like metal tweezers or fingernails that can break the skin and introduce bacteria. For those prone to recurring ear blackheads, a high-quality extractor set can be a good investment.
According to SELF, blackhead vacuums and pore-clearing devices may also be used cautiously, provided they’re low-suction and used with clean skin. However, pore strips and cotton swabs are not recommended for ear use due to their inaccuracy and risk of pushing debris deeper.
Top Ingredients to Treat Ear Blackheads
If manual removal isn’t ideal, consider using active skincare ingredients known for unclogging pores. Salicylic acid is the gold standard for blackheads—it’s oil-soluble and penetrates deep into the pore lining. Use salicylic acid cleansers or gels designed for acne-prone skin. Retinoids, available both OTC and by prescription, increase cell turnover and reduce congestion.
Products containing glycolic acid or lactic acid can also help by exfoliating the skin’s surface. Niacinamide is a soothing option that helps regulate oil production, and witch hazel offers natural astringent properties. According to Health.com, a combination of these actives works well when used consistently and gently.
What to Avoid When Treating a Blackhead in Your Ear
Avoid using harsh scrubs, astringent alcohols, or thick balms inside or around your ears. These can disrupt your skin’s natural barrier and lead to increased irritation or breakouts. Never insert pointed tools or cotton swabs into the ear canal, as these can push the blackhead further or injure the ear drum.
Do not pop or squeeze the blackhead with your fingers. As emphasized by dermatologists at CNET, improper forceful extraction increases the risk of scarring and infection. If a blackhead doesn’t come out easily, try a chemical exfoliant for a few days instead of applying repeated pressure.
How to Clean Ears Without Damaging Skin
Ear hygiene doesn’t mean aggressive scrubbing. Clean around the outer ear and behind it using a damp washcloth and gentle cleanser. Use lukewarm water, and avoid inserting anything deeper than your pinky. If oil buildup is a concern, look for a non-comedogenic ear-safe cleanser, and wash your ears a few times per week—not daily unless needed.
If you wear earbuds regularly, sanitize them with alcohol wipes to avoid reintroducing bacteria. Similarly, hair products like mousse, gel, or oils can clog pores if they come into contact with the ears. As Prevention explains, treating your ear skin like the rest of your face—with care and moderation—is the best long-term strategy.
How to Prevent Future Blackheads in Your Ears
Prevention is the best remedy. Establish a consistent skincare routine that includes gentle exfoliation (1–2x/week), oil-balancing products, and protection against irritants. Avoid letting hair oils, heavy conditioners, or sprays touch your ears if you’re acne-prone. Clean earbuds and pillowcases regularly to limit oil and dirt transfer.
For people with oily skin or large pores, ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, and retinoids are useful preventatives. Avoid over-washing, which can trigger more sebum production. In some cases, switching to oil-free, fragrance-free hair and skincare products helps reduce buildup around the ear area.
When to See a Dermatologist
If your ear blackheads are chronic, painful, or become inflamed, a visit to a dermatologist is warranted. A specialist can assess whether you’re dealing with blackheads, cystic acne, or another type of bump such as sebaceous cysts or ear eczema.
Dermatologists have access to stronger topical treatments and tools that aren’t available over the counter. According to AAD (American Academy of Dermatology), procedures like chemical peels, extractions under magnification, or prescription retinoids can effectively manage recurring blackheads without damaging the skin.
Common Mistakes People Make
The most common mistake is using cotton swabs or sharp objects to try and dig out a blackhead. This is not only ineffective but dangerous. Another mistake is confusing blackheads with earwax or other skin conditions and treating them incorrectly. Overuse of exfoliants, benzoyl peroxide, or scrubs can also worsen the issue by drying out the ear skin and triggering more oil production.
Lastly, ignoring hygiene habits—like not cleaning your earbuds or letting hair products accumulate—can undo all your treatment efforts. Stick to a simple, dermatologist-recommended care plan and avoid trends that promise instant removal but carry long-term risks.
