What is a Blackhead Eraser&Trade?

A Blackhead Eraser™ is a hand-held deep-cleansing device used to treat open comedones, more commonly known as blackheads. Textured pads are vibrated against the user's face to exfoliate the skin and apply a salicylic acid serum to the open pores. The serum works by unclogging pores, therefore reducing the appearance of blackheads by dissolving the built-up oils in the pores. This combination of exfoliation and topical medication is said to both remove blackheads from the skin and prevent new ones from forming.

This product is made by Clean and Clear® as part of their acne treatment line. It is typically found in the skin care section of drugstores and grocery stores. A single replaceable AA battery powers the device, which is water resistant and safe for shower use. The shape of the applicator is intended to provide a slip-free grip for ease of use. Generally, the Blackhead Eraser™ must be used with its own brand of single-use medicated pads, which usually can be purchased wherever the device is sold.

The reason this system is purportedly superior to other manual treatments is that the Blackhead Eraser™ is effective without risking damage to the skin. Squeezing a blackhead can actually push the blockage deeper into the pore, and metallic extractors can cause scarring if used inappropriately. Pore strips may remove the pore blockage, but they do not prevent future blackheads and can cause irritation if used too often. Sensitive skin may be irritated by overuse of the Blackhead Eraser™, but the product does not actively cause damage by its mechanism. Also, the salicylic acid serum in the textured pads discourages additional blackheads from forming, which in turn discourages overuse.

In contrast, the main problem with the Blackhead Eraser™ is that it can cause dryness and irritation of the skin. This is often the case when more than one acne treatment is being applied to the skin in short succession. It is also possible that using the product more than the recommended three to four times per week could cause this reaction. Dryness and irritation can increase the skin's oil production, thus leading to further blackheads. In this case, use of the product must be modified to conform to the manufacturer's specifications, or it typically must be halted altogether.

Satisfied customers typically report a decrease in blackheads and a noticeable improvement in skin texture and clarity. Dissatisfied customers generally report that the product did not meet their expectations concerning blackhead removal. It is likely that improvements in skin texture are a side product of the exfoliating properties of the Blackhead Eraser™.