Blackheads can also develop in the ears, in the same way that they form on the forehead or nose. The main cause is excess sebum, but other factors can cause their appearance. The treatment of this area is quite delicate because it is difficult to access. But then how to remove ear blackheads? What are the solutions to correct excess sebum and impurities in the ears? Here are some answers.
The Causes of Blackheads in the Ear.
Published on June 22, 2021, updated on December 12, 2023, by Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences — 4 min of reading
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What Causes Blackheads in the Ear?
The T-zone of the face is not the only place where blackheads can develop. We also have sebaceous glands in the ears, which are necessary for skin hydration. However, they become problematic when they are too active and produce too much sebum. The people most affected by this phenomenon are often those with combination to oily skin.
This excess of sebum will clog the pores of the skin and promote the appearance of spots. Of course, even if this problem is more common in people with combination to oily skin, all skin types can be affected. When the skin's pores are clogged with dead cells or other impurities, sebum can no longer reach the surface and becomes trapped in the pores, leading to an internal over-accumulation of sebum and the subsequent appearance of blackheads. This unsightly pore-clogging mixture oxidizes on contact with the air, giving them the dark appearance for which they are named.
Certain factors can, however, increase the number of clogged pores, which leads to an increase in blackheads:
Hormonal fluctuations: During puberty, pregnancy, menopause or andropause, sebum production increases all over the body, including in the ears;
Poor hygiene: If blackheads appear frequently in the ears, it may be a sign of insufficient or improper cleaning of the ear, as well as lack of exfoliation. Impurities and dead skin will then accumulate on the skin, causing the pores to become blocked;
The use of headphones: They are not necessarily clean and can therefore bring impurities and bacteria into the ears. In addition, excessive use of headphones can also promote the appearance of blackheads. The pores of the skin become clogged, but also lead to sweating and oily skin;
Medication: Taking certain medications, such as the contraceptive pill, androgens or lithium, promotes the production of sebum.
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How to Prevent and Get Rid of Blackheads in the Ear?
If you regularly have them, it would be a good idea to put in place a small routine to prevent their appearance and get rid of the blackheads in your ears :
Wash your ears: The best way to prevent blackheads in the ear is to wash them every day, morning and night. This step allows you to get rid of excess sebum and dirt (perspiration, pollutants, etc.) that have accumulated.
To do so, you can use a cleansing product adapted to your skin type. For combination to oily skin, we recommend our purifying cleanser with nettle, which will regulate excess sebum on your ears. If you've applied foundation to your ears, remember to remove it using our 7-ingredient micellar water. Thanks to its minimalist, fragrance-free formula, it's suitable for all skin types, even sensitive ones.
Exfoliate the area: Exfoliation is an important step in any beauty routine, no matter the area: body, face and even ears. It removes the dead skin that causes clogged pores. We recommend that you gently exfoliate your skin at least once a week with our rosehip oil facial scrub. It will help unclog pores, promote cell renewal and help you with the ear blackhead removal.
Clean the objects which can be in contact with the ears: Mobile phones, helmets, earphones, pillowcases, etc… are real nests of bacteria and other dirt. It is thus advisable to clean them regularly.
