Blackhead Tips

What Are Blackheads?

Blackheads are little bumps embedded into the pores of our skin. They are usually yellowish or blackish in color.

Blackheads are a type of acne called an open comedone. Blackheads are the first stage of acne, forming before bacteria invade the pores of our skin, which in turn results in infection and inflammation (otherwise known as the pimple).

How do Blackheads Develop?

Blackheads are caused when sebum (the skin's natural oil) collects and hardens in the pores. When exposed and oxidized, they turn black and hence the name – BLACKHEADS. Oily and combination skins are most susceptible to blackheads. The skin's most dense oil glands are located in the T-zone area of your face. That is why the T-zone area is most prone to develop blackheads. It is important to take actions to keep those blackheads away before they turn into painful and nasty pimples!

What Causes Blackheads?

Blackheads usually develop when the skin produces too much oil. A major factor contributing to excess oil production is the onset of puberty. This hormone results in the over activity of the oil gland which then results in clogged pores.

Another common cause of the appearance of blackheads is that the skin is has not been cleaned thoroughly. When skin is not cleaned properly, dead skin cells accumulate within the pores. These dead cells then clog the pore openings which then results in oil build up, which we already know causes blackheads to form. Yet another cause of clogged pores is the use of too much makeup. Excessive use of moisturisers, foundations or sun screens can also have the same effect as the overuse of makeup.

Who Gets BLackheads?

These lesions typically develop after puberty, when hormones begin surging into the body and skin. The excess hormones in the skin result in stimulation of the oil gland (called the sebaceous glands). This stimulation leads to excess oil production in the pores. The excess oil gets occluded in the pores resulting in a ball of accumulated oil which, when exposed to air, turns black in color. There are many conditions that may cause or even worsen blackheads. Some of these causes are the use of topical oils and the use of makeup. While blackheads are present in almost any skin type, they are most likely to develop on people with very oily skin.