Why Blackheads Increase on the Nose — And How You Can Get Rid of Them

 Blackheads on the nose are something almost everyone deals with, and when they start increasing, it can feel frustrating and even embarrassing. The nose has more oil glands than most other parts of the face, which is why it becomes a hotspot for blackheads. Even if you wash your face regularly, they can still appear because blackheads are not just about dirt — they’re caused by what’s happening inside your pores. Understanding why they happen and how to manage them can make a big difference in keeping your skin clear and smooth.

Blackheads form when the pores get clogged with excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells and sometimes bacteria. When this mixture sits at the surface of the skin and gets exposed to air, it oxidises and turns black. This is why blackheads look like tiny dark dots on the nose. One of the biggest reasons they increase is overactive oil glands. Many people naturally have oily or combination skin, which makes the nose greasier than the rest of the face. During winters, heaters, hot showers and dry air can also make the skin produce more oil to compensate for dryness, leading to more congestion and blackheads.

Another common cause is not exfoliating enough. Washing your face removes dirt and sweat, but it doesn’t get rid of dead skin cells. When these dead cells build up, they mix with oil and block the pores. This is why people who don’t exfoliate regularly often notice more blackheads on the nose.

Using makeup or skincare products that are too heavy or comedogenic (pore-clogging) is another reason blackheads increase. Many moisturisers, sunscreens or foundations sit inside the pores like a plug, especially on the nose. If they aren’t removed properly at night, they can lead to a buildup. Hormonal changes, especially during teenage years, periods, stress or even certain medications, can also trigger more oil production, making blackheads worse.

The good news is there are simple, effective ways to reduce blackheads and prevent them from coming back. The most important step is cleansing twice a day with a gentle cleanser. This helps remove surface oil without stripping the skin. Exfoliating two to three times a week is also crucial. Products with salicylic acid work very well because this ingredient goes deep into the pores, dissolves oil, and cleans out buildup. For stubborn blackheads, a clay mask once or twice a week can help absorb extra oil from the pores and tighten them.

Using non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) products is another must. Choosing lightweight gels over thick creams can reduce congestion on the nose. Always remove makeup thoroughly at the end of the day. Retinol or retinoid creams can also help because they speed up cell turnover and prevent dead skin from blocking pores.  For people who want quicker results, blackhead extraction by a professional is a safe option. Chemical peels and microdermabrasion can also help improve the texture of the nose and reduce clogged pores.

It also helps to pay attention to everyday habits that may be unknowingly making blackheads worse. Touching your nose frequently transfers oil, sweat and bacteria from your hands to your pores, increasing congestion. Even things like not changing pillowcases regularly, wearing masks for long hours, or letting sweat sit on your skin after a workout can contribute to blocked pores on the nose. Small changes—like washing your pillowcases weekly, wiping your face gently after exercising, and keeping your hands away from your face—can make a noticeable difference.

Ultimately, the best way to control blackheads is consistency. With a simple routine that includes proper cleansing, gentle exfoliation, the right products and a little patience, blackheads on the nose can be reduced significantly. Keeping the pores clean and avoiding heavy skincare will help your nose stay clearer, smoother and visibly brighter over time.

Dr Sunil Kumar Prabhu, Consultant dermatologist and Aesthetic physician, Aster RV Hospital, Bangalore