Blackheads and whiteheads are among the most common skin concerns, yet they often persist despite good skincare habits. Over time, they can leave the skin looking uneven and congested, affecting its clarity and smoothness. Many people find that topical products offer only short-term results, as clogged pores tend to return without proper management.
At Apax Medical, we take a medical approach to treating blackheads and whiteheads. Our treatments are designed to clear clogged pores, refine skin texture and maintain lasting clarity through gentle, professionally guided care.
Professional |
Established |
Trusted
Restore normal healthy skin
Various acne treatment options to suit your needs.
Helping
over 10,000
patients
Blackheads and whiteheads are two of the most common types of acne. They form when pores become clogged with oil, dead skin and impurities. This type of acne is known as comedonal acne and can appear anywhere on the face, particularly around the nose, forehead, and chin.
Tiny, invisible blockages known as microcomedones are often the earliest stage of comedonal acne [3]. With timely and appropriate treatment, these can be managed before they develop into visible blackheads or whiteheads.
As a clinician with more than 15 years of experience, Dr Ng. understands the impact of how acne can affect an individual. Acne knows no boundaries, afflicting a wide range of age groups and affecting both genders for varying lengths of time. Dr. Ng provides a patient-centric approach that is backed by the latest scientific evidence as well as his own wealth of experience to create a care plan for the best acne treatment that is unique to your skin type. Early intervention can help prevent acne scars, restore your skin and confidence.
With more than 15 years of clinical experience, Dr Moses Ng has helped many patients achieve clearer, healthier skin through personalised acne care. As a leading acne specialist in Singapore, he understands that blackheads and whiteheads are not only cosmetic concerns but can also affect one’s confidence and comfort.
At Apax Medical, Dr Ng takes a patient-centred and medically guided approach to treatment. Every plan begins with a detailed skin assessment to identify the severity, triggers and pore condition. Depending on your skin needs, treatment may include topical therapy, chemical peels or advanced acne procedures to clear existing comedones and prevent future blockage.
Early, professional care is key to maintaining clear, smooth skin and reducing the risk of acne scarring. With expert guidance and evidence-driven techniques, Dr Ng focuses on long-term results that restore both skin clarity and confidence.
Blackheads and whiteheads develop when excess oil and dead skin cells clog the pores, creating an ideal environment for bacterial growth [4]. This congestion may become more noticeable during periods of hormonal change, such as puberty or stress, and can be aggravated by Singapore’s humid climate.
Certain skincare habits and cosmetic products can also make pores more prone to blockage, while diet and lifestyle factors may influence how the skin responds. Understanding these triggers is an important first step in managing and preventing comedonal acne.
To support treatment and maintain clearer skin, adopting a consistent skincare routine can make a visible difference.
Yes. Acne can appear in several forms depending on how deeply the pores are affected and how much inflammation is present. Recognising the different types of acne is important for choosing the right treatment and preventing long-term scarring.
At Apax Medical, acne is managed according to its type and severity, ensuring each patient receives the most suitable treatment plan to achieve lasting skin clarity.
Topical retinoids, derived from vitamin A, are one of the most effective and widely used treatments for blackheads and whiteheads [7]. They help clear blocked pores, reduce inflammation and improve skin texture over time. Retinoids also aid in fading post-acne marks and maintaining long-term skin clarity.
Commonly used types include:
Mild dryness, redness or flaking may occur initially, but these side effects usually settle with gradual use and proper moisturisation.
Benzoyl peroxide is a topical antibacterial agent that helps reduce acne-causing bacteria and excess oil on the skin [8]. It also has a mild pore-clearing effect, making it useful for both prevention and maintenance. For first-time users or those with sensitive skin, a lower concentration (around 2.5%) is often recommended to minimise irritation. It’s best applied to clean, dry skin and may lighten fabrics on contact.
Azelaic acid offers gentle yet effective treatment for comedonal and mild inflammatory acne [9]. It works by clearing pores, reducing redness and improving uneven pigmentation. Suitable for sensitive and darker skin types, it also helps fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, leaving the complexion clearer and more even-toned.
For patients who continue to experience clogged pores or uneven texture despite topical therapy, professional in-clinic treatments can help achieve clearer and smoother skin more effectively. At Apax Medical, our procedures are designed to complement medical skincare, targeting pore congestion, oil regulation and early acne formation while supporting overall skin renewal.
The Hydra Plus Facial is a non-invasive, multi-step hydrodermabrasion treatment that deeply cleanses, exfoliates and hydrates the skin. It removes impurities such as dead skin cells, blackheads and whiteheads while infusing essential nutrients to restore a fresh, healthy glow.
The ADVATx Laser is clinically proven to target inflammation and reduce the visible effects of acne. Using dual wavelengths, it addresses both redness and oil production, helping to calm active breakouts and improve the appearance of acne scars. The treatment also promotes smoother skin and a more even tone.
The Carbon Peel Laser uses gentle laser energy to purify the pores, reduce excess sebum, and refine overall skin texture. It is a 100% drug-free treatment that helps minimise enlarged pores, control oiliness and stimulate collagen production for a clearer, more balanced complexion.
The cost of treating blackheads and whiteheads in Singapore varies depending on the severity of acne, type of treatment and individual skin response. At Apax Medical, we provide a clear and transparent fee structure so patients can make informed decisions about their care. Each treatment plan is tailored to your skin’s condition, combining medical therapies and in-clinic procedures when needed.
| TREATMENT | PRICE |
|---|---|
| Oral Antibiotics | from $30 |
| Topical Creams (Retinoid/Benzoyl Peroxide) | from $40 |
| Oral Isotretinoin | from $80 |
| Injection Steroids (for cyst) | from $120 |
| Drainage of cyst | from $150 |
| Laser Acne Treatment | from $399 |
Blackheads and whiteheads are common but persistent skin concerns that can affect both the appearance and health of the skin. At Apax Medical, our goal is to help every patient achieve clear, healthy and balanced skin. Blackheads and whiteheads may seem minor, but when left untreated, they can lead to inflammation, uneven texture and lasting marks. By addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes, Dr Moses Ng combines medical precision with advanced dermatological treatments to restore the skin’s clarity and confidence.
Schedule a consultation at our clinics in Woodlands or Kovan to learn more about personalised treatment options for blackheads, whiteheads and other types of acne. With a carefully planned approach tailored to your skin needs, Apax Medical provides trusted care to help you achieve long-term improvement in both the health and appearance of your skin.
Blackheads and whiteheads are usually not painful, as they are non-inflamed forms of acne. However, if bacteria enter clogged pores, they can become red, swollen and tender.
Maintain a consistent skincare routine using gentle cleansers and non-comedogenic products. Regular exfoliation and professional treatments can also help keep pores clear and prevent buildup.
It’s best not to squeeze or extract them at home, as this can push debris deeper into the skin and lead to inflammation or scarring. Professional extraction ensures the pores are cleared safely.
While home remedies may offer mild improvement, they rarely address the root cause. Medically proven treatments prescribed by a doctor are safer and more effective for long-term results.
Certain foods with a high glycaemic index or dairy content may aggravate acne in some people. A balanced diet with plenty of water, fruits and vegetables supports overall skin health.
If over-the-counter products aren’t improving your skin or breakouts are frequent, it’s best to see a doctor. Early medical care helps prevent inflammation, scarring and future flare-ups.
Our goal is to achieve and maintain clear, healthy skin for our patients. By addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes of blackheads and whiteheads, we strive to enhance our patients’ skin health and overall well-being. Our holistic approach combines medical expertise, advanced treatments, and personalized care plans to deliver optimal results.
Dr. Moses Ng
We treat a range of acne and acne scars at both our clinics in Woodlands and Kovan. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, so that Dr. Ng can develop a personalized treatment approach for resolving your skin concerns and helping you to achieve long-term improvements in the health and appearance of your skin.
Dr. Moses Ng is a distinguished professional in the field of aesthetic medicine, renowned for his expertise in advanced cosmetic procedures. With over 15 years of experience, extensive training and a keen eye for detail, Dr. Ng specializes in a wide range of treatments, including injectables, laser therapies, and acne scar management.
Dr. Moses Ng’s commitment to excellence and patient-centric approach have earned him a reputation as a trusted clinician in aesthetic medicine. His continuous pursuit of the latest advancements in the field ensures that his patients receive the highest standard of care and the most effective treatments available.
