How to Remove Blackheads from Ears

Most of us are familiar with blackheads that are small black bumps on the skin. They are mainly found on the face, neck, chest, and back; but, other parts may also develop blackheads, which is a form of acne. In case of face, the T-zone, including the nose, is more prone to blackheads. Even your ears may develop this skin condition. You may find it difficult to remove blackheads from ears.

Blackheads develop when the ducts of overactive sebaceous glands get clogged with sebum, dead skin cells, and other debris. The sebum, which is the oily secretion from these glands, gets oxidized, when it comes into contact with air.

This is because, the pores that drain the secretions from the glands remain open. Such oxidation results in discoloration of the clogged material, thereby causing blackheads or comedones.

Even though, blackheads do not cause any serious problem; they can be unsightly, especially those located on and around the face. So, removal of blackheads is always advisable. While blackheads located on the face can be removed easily, removal of blackheads in ears can be really tricky.

The ear is a sensitive organ that has to be handled with utmost care. You should not try to remove blackheads that are located in the ear canal and inner ear. Faulty methods of blackhead removal may result in scarring, infection, and pain.

Exercise caution, while trying to remove blackheads in the ear. You must be careful enough to avoid use of blackhead removal tools inside the ear. Such use may sometimes result in damage to the eardrum. In case of blackheads in the ear canal, you must not try to remove them.

Consult an ENT doctor for this purpose. Given below are some tips for removing blackheads on the outer ear.

Wash your hands with an antibacterial soap, and cleanse the ear. Once done, apply warm compresses over the blackhead, for at least five minutes. This helps in opening the pore, and softening of the inner material; which in turn helps in easy removal of the blackhead. Wipe the area with alcohol. Squeeze out the blackhead, using your fingertips.

Make sure not to use your nails for squeezing. You may also use a blackhead extractor for this purpose. Avoid using excess force, as it may cause pain and scarring. If you find it difficult to remove such blackheads, it will be better to contact a dermatologist, for this purpose. If the blackhead pops out, remove it, and clean the site thoroughly.

It is always better to prevent formation of blackheads in ears, through regular cleansing. If you have the habit of using headphones, wipe them with alcohol at regular intervals. Skin exfoliation of the outer ear may also prove useful.