Overview

Blackheads are a common form of acne that occur when dead skin cells and oil get trapped in a pore. The blackness of the blemish is caused by an accumulation of pigment cells, not dirt as some believe. Sometimes, blackheads can be in your ears, which can be extremely painful.

Step 1

Wash your ears with a gentle face wash. A mild acne wash will be best to remove dirt and dead skin cells. Rinse well, then dry your ears with a clean cloth.

Step 2

Soak a wash cloth in warm water and then press the cloth onto the blackhead. Continue to press until the cloth gets cold, then wet the cloth again with warm water. The heat will soften the material in the blackhead.

Step 3

Put on gloves and swipe an alcohol-soaked cotton ball over the area. This will kill bacteria and sterilize the area for the next step.

Step 4

Press your index fingers against the sides of the blackhead. Use gentle pressure downward then squeeze upward. This should force the material of the blackhead out. Once it does, wipe it away with an alcohol-soaked cotton ball. If not, repeat steps two through four.

Step 5

Wash the ear again with a gentle face wash and pat dry. Apply an acne cream that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to the area. Make sure to use just a dab because the ear is a small area.