Why has my skin changed - blackheads

[ThreeWheelsGood]

Very random thread, hoping someone has ideas. My skin has always been on the oily/normal but clear side. I have the mirena coil and it's great - it means I get very few spots. I'm late 30s.

But in the last few weeks, my face feels really rough everywhere - especially my chin and nose - and when I take a close look (and squeeze!) every single pore is a blackhead!

Any ideas why this might be? A recent change is I'm being treated for low B12 and low iron. But I can't think of much else.

What can I do to clear it up?

I like the Clean and Clear blackhead cleanser.

Salicylic acid will get rid of them. You can get a 2% salicylic cleansing lotion eg Superdrug (Deep Action Cleansing Lotion, v cheap £3.99) or Nip and Fab (about £10). The Superdrug one got rid of blackheads on my nose that I thought I'd take to my grave!!

To smooth, retinol or glycolic acid.

Thank you both! I will try those.

You can also get a salicylic peel with a higher concentration if you see an aesthetician. You won't get peeling skin, it will just chemically remove the top dead layer and help clear your pores. I would quite honestly see a professional if your skin is flaring up so much. Good skincare is 20% facials 80% homecare. Please don't squeeze and pick as this can cause the bacteria to spread into adjacent pores and create scarring and hyperpigmentation.