Causes:
- Excess oil production
- Poor hygiene or infrequent cleaning of the ears
- Use of earphones/earbuds trapping oil and bacteria
- Heavy use of oily hair or skin products
- Hormonal changes (especially in teens and adults with acne-prone skin)
Signs:
- A dark bump in or around the ear canal
- Sometimes pressure or mild pain if it’s large
- Can be mistaken for a mole or embedded dirt
✅ Safe Methods:
- Warm Compress – Softens the blackhead for easier release.
- Salicylic Acid or Benzoyl Peroxide – Helps clear and prevent clogged pores.
- Comedone Extractor Tool – Should only be used carefully or by a dermatologist.
- Professional Extraction – A dermatologist or esthetician can safely remove it, especially if it’s deep or painful.
❌ Avoid:
- Using tweezers or sharp objects
- Squeezing aggressively (can cause infection or rupture nearby tissue)
- Inserting anything deep into the ear canal
If the blackhead is especially large, recurrent, or painful, or if there’s swelling, redness, or drainage, it’s best to consult a dermatologist. Sometimes, what appears to be a blackhead might be a sebaceous cyst, ear polyp, or even an in-grown hair that needs different treatment.