The Ordinary Regimen for Blackheads

Blackheads, whiteheads and closed comedones can be a huge struggle for those with oilier and acne-prone skin types. Blackheads form when our pores become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. Once these react with the oxygen in the air, it leads to a chemical reaction leading to the characteristic colour.

There are various causes for blackheads, if you want to further your knowledge surrounding them and how to reduce them, make sure you read our article here on how to get rid of blackheads.

The Ordinary Regimen For Blackheads

Two routines have been compiled, one for daytime and another for night-time. Both of these routines include the most effective products by The Ordinary which are proven to eliminate those pesky blackheads and leave your skin radiant and glowing.

Daytime Routine:

1. Squalane Cleanser: Cleansing is absolutely critical when it comes to reducing blackheads. Cleansing regularly will not only help to clear out the gunk in your pores, but it will also help with blackheads, and keep your skin vibrant and glowing. We recommend this Squalane cleanser, it is extremely gentle on the skin and helps to effectively cleanse.

2. Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution (Use 2-3 times a week): Glycolic acid is an AHA, or Alpha Hydroxy Acid. This toning solution gets to work immediately by chemically exfoliating your skin. This boosts skin cell turnover, reduces sebum production and aids in removing blackheads.

3. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: A form of Vitamin B-3 which can work to tackle skin congestion and blemishes. Suitable for anti-acne and anti-blemish routines also. Niacinamide is excellent at regulating sebum production, and can therefore help those suffering from oily skin. By reducing skin oiliness, blackhead production is minimised.

4. Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%: A gentle exfoliating formula suitable for daily use, ensure you follow up with SPF-30. This will combat acne, blackheads, redness and uneven skin tones.

5. Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: Moisturising is critical step of any skincare regime. NMF’s work to provide a protective barrier on the outer layer of the skin. Not only will these protect the skin from pollutants and free radical damage, but it also means the skin’s moisture is locked in. It is often overlooked that dry skin can also be a cause of blackheads as our skin overcompensates by producing more oils.

6. High-Adherence Silicone Primer: This is an excellent skin primer which works to blur and matte the skin, reducing the appearance of pores and imperfections.

Night-time Routine:

1. Squalane Cleanser: Cleansing twice a day is crucial, this squalane cleanser is effective for both night-time and daytime use. We've outlined the importance of cleansing above and you'll see this in all of our articles.

2. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides): One of our favourite products by The Ordinary. This serum is excellent at boosting skin moisture to counter the effects of any active acids you're using (AHA, BHA) whilst plumping the skin and leaving it with a radiant glow. By keeping your skin well hydrated, you're not only attacking skin oiliness but also anti-aging. The addition of Ceramides in the latest formulation will help protect and restore the natural skin barrier, often a side effect of active acids.

3. Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%: A gentle exfoliating formula suitable for daily use. This will combat acne, blackheads, redness and uneven skin tones.

4. Salicylic Acid 2% Solution: Their newest formulation is perhaps the most potent blemish fighting serum on the market. This serum contains Salicylic acid, also known as a BHA. It sinks deep in the pores to chemically exfoliate where other serums may not be able to reach, in turn reducing blackheads as well as minimising pore appearance. Apply 2–3 evenings per week; do not use with Azelaic Acid.

5. Retinol 1% in Squalane: Retinol is one of the most potent anti-aging and pore refining ingredients available on the skincare market. Retinol will increase skin cell turnover, effectively sloughing off those pesky blackheads from your skin with continued use. Do not use on the same nights as salicylic acid.

6. Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: Follow up all of your routines with a light, effective moisturiser.

FAQs

Can I use glycolic acid and salicylic acid on the same day?

You can, but avoid layering them in the same routine if you are sensitive. A simple cadence is AHA (glycolic) on one evening and BHA (salicylic) on another, with rest nights in between.

How often should I use salicylic acid for blackheads?

Two to three evenings per week is enough for most. Increase only if your skin tolerates it without flaking or stinging.

Do I need retinol as well as acids?

Retinoids help reduce comedones over time. If you add retinol, do not use it on the same nights as strong acids. Build up slowly (2–3 nights/week).

Any other The Ordinary options for blackheads?

• Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution: a gentler, squalane‑based BHA option for those who find water‑based BHA too intense.
• Salicylic Acid 2% Masque: once weekly for oily/congested areas only (avoid if sensitive).

Sources

• Ingredient evidence (NCBI/ PubMed):
  • Salicylic acid (BHA) and comedolytic action in acne: peer‑reviewed reviews available via PubMed.
  • Niacinamide and sebum regulation/pores: peer‑reviewed clinical studies available via PubMed.
  • Glycolic acid (AHA) and exfoliation/texture: peer‑reviewed reviews on AHAs available via PubMed.