Overview

Blackheads are a type of comedonal acne. They are also called open comedones. The other type of comedones is called closed comedones because it is covered by a thin skin layer on its surface.

Blackheads appear darker or black because of the oxidation of debris (oil, dirt, cosmetics, dead skin, and bacteria) inside the pores. The open pores allow the debris to come in contact with the air and react with the oxygen, thereby imparting a brownish or black color. 

Blackheads generally appear on the face, typically on and around the nose. Anyone can get blackheads, but people with oily skin or those who use a lot of makeup or cosmetics are more vulnerable. Blackheads are not a sign of poor hygiene or dirt on the skin.

What causes blackheads?

“Blackheads are caused by a buildup of sebum, oil, dead skin cells and possibly C. acnes (the bacteria that causes acne) that are stuck in the hair follicle,” says Nazanin Saedi, MD.

“Blackheads form when the opening of a pore on your skin becomes clogged with sebum,” says Deanne Mraz Robinson, M.D.

“Dead skin cells and oils collect in the pore. And if the pore isn’t covered by skin, exposure to air causes it to turn black as it oxidizes.” Hence the term blackhead.

How to get rid of blackheads?

Wash your face at least twice a day. This seems like basic advice, but cleansing can go a long way to help prevent dirt and oil from accumulating in your pores. Washing your face is one of the three most important steps in your skin-care routine for good reason: Regularly cleansing your skin will help remove any excess dirt, oil, dead skin cells, bacteria, or makeup that’s lingering on your face.

Do not pick at your blackheads. Many people think that it is accumulated dirt and tend to remove it by scrubbing or pinching. Avoid that because this will worsen the blackheads and may even cause an infection.

Use retinoid creams and lotions. Retinoids are a reliable method of ridding the skin of blackheads. They work by promoting skin renewal and decreasing skin cell adhesion to prevent blockage of follicular openings.

Try a salicylic acid scrub. If you have blackheads, your ingredient of choice should be salicylic acid. this beta-hydroxy acid helps remove excess oil and exfoliate cells from the skin's surface.

Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet. The diet should be rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Your skin is not just determined by what you externally apply to it, its health also depends on what you consume.

Remember that oily skin needs moisturization too. Cleansing often leaves the skin dry and causes a rebound oil secretion. Look for a water-based moisturizer containing jojoba oil or tea tree extract. These work wonders for oily skin and prevent your skin from getting too oily.

Takeaway

Blackheads are a common feature of acne. Many people, particularly adolescents, may find that blackheads go away in time and do not need much treatment. People with oily skin are more likely to develop blackheads. Blackheads occur when excess sebum (oil) and dead skin cells in outbreaks cause bacteria to collect and form plugs in the follicles.

Finding the right skin care regimen and lifestyle habits to reduce blackheads might take some trial and error. Taking time to research and experiment with different products is likely to give the best results.