Blackheads on Lip: Causes and Treatments

Blackheads can appear along the lip line, and more rarely, directly on the lips themselves. They are tiny pore blockages made up of sebum, dead skin cells, and sometimes cosmetic residues. When exposed to the air, these blockages oxidise and darken. If a blackhead is squeezed, the surrounding skin may become irritated or infected. Fortunately, they don’t always inflame, and a combination of professional extraction and consistent skincare is often enough to keep them under control. Without prevention, however, blackheads around the lips and nose can remain persistent well into adulthood.

Blackheads form when pores become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells, and the material inside the pore darkens after being exposed to oxygen. The dark appearance is not dirt but the result of this natural oxidation process. By contrast, whiteheads remain covered by a thin layer of skin and therefore don’t change colour. Blackheads are also known as “open comedones,” while whiteheads are “closed comedones.”

Not all lip bumps are due to pore blockages. Small cysts may form under the skin, while yellowish-white bumps are often enlarged oil glands. Cold sores are another possibility, appearing as red, fluid-filled blisters. Understanding the difference helps to identify the right care.

Your sebaceous glands are essential in protecting the skin, but when they produce too much sebum, pores become prone to clogging. This may be triggered by harsh cleansing, a diet high in sugar, or medications that dehydrate the skin.

Sebum combined with dead cells creates blockages. At first, these may only appear as blackheads, but if the pore becomes inflamed, swelling or even scarring may occur.

Certain moisturising or occlusive care can contribute to pore congestion, while overly stripping cleansers disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, encouraging excess sebum production. Choosing non-comedogenic care helps hydrate without blocking pores.

During adolescence, pregnancy, or menopause, hormonal changes—particularly in androgen levels—can increase sebum production and encourage blackheads.

Lack of sleep, stress, or a nutrient-poor diet can raise cortisol levels, stimulating sebum production. Environmental elements such as pollution, humidity, or hot climates also play a role in flare-ups.

Blackheads on the lip line appear as small, darkened dots that are usually flat or slightly raised. Unlike cold sores, they don’t cause itching or burning. Unlike cysts, they are not fluid-filled. And unlike whiteheads, they are open to the air, which explains their darker shade. If you notice that these tiny dots remain persistent despite cleansing, it is a sign they may be blackheads rather than temporary irritation. Recognising them early helps you adopt the right preventive care.

Cleansing is a key step in keeping the lip contour and the rest of the face clear. The ideal routine combines effectiveness with gentleness: a cleanser that eliminates excess sebum and impurities while respecting the skin’s natural balance. Adding a mild exfoliation once or twice a week helps the skin shed dead cells, promoting smoother texture and preventing clogged pores. Favouring formulas with naturally derived and soothing ingredients can purify without aggressing, making daily care both effective and respectful of delicate areas like the lip line.

Dermatologists and skincare experts recommend active ingredients such as salicylic acid, retinoids, and benzoyl peroxide for blackheads. Incorporating them into a consistent daily routine helps prevent pore congestion. Salicylic acid and retinoids are generally well tolerated, even around the delicate lip area, while benzoyl peroxide is stronger and best used occasionally.

A professional extraction removes pore blockages safely, helping to prevent scarring or infection. This approach is particularly helpful for acne-prone skin.

If over-the-counter care is not enough, dermatologists may prescribe stronger topical retinoids, antibiotics, or in some cases recommend hormonal regulation and chemical peels.

Consistency is key in prevention. A complete routine that combines cleansing, toning, treating, and moisturising helps maintain balance. The Caudalie Acne-Prone Skin Vinopure Collection offers:

• Vinopure Purifying Gel Cleanser with Salicylic Acid: A gentle yet effective cleansing care that soothes irritation and hydrates while removing excess sebum.

• Vinopure Purifying Toner with Salicylic Acid: Vegan and made with 99% natural-origin ingredients, this toner reduces shine and prepares the skin for further care.

• Vinopure Blemish Control Salicylic Serum: A lightweight serum enriched with essential oils that refines the skin and reduces imperfections. It effectively targets all types of imperfections: excess sebum, enlarged pores, blackheads, papules and pustules. Its effectiveness has been clinically proven: 86% of users see a reduction in their spots in just 7 days*.

• Vinopure Mattifying Moisturising Fluid: Provides long-lasting hydration while mattifying with silica powder and antioxidant-rich grape polyphenols.

• Vinopure Salicylic Stop Solution: A targeted care that combines salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and niacinamide to visibly reduce existing imperfections. This treatment reduces localised spots in just 4 hours**.