What causes blackheads and whiteheads?

The comedones, commonly known as blackheads and whiteheads, are types of skin blemishes that result from clogged pores. Understanding what causes a closed comedo (whitehead) and an open comedo (blackhead) is essential for adopting effective prevention and treatment strategies.

What are comedones?

Comedones form when skin pores become clogged with a combination of sebum, dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. Comedones can be classified into two main categories: closed comedones and open comedones.

What is a closed comedo, also known as a whitehead?

A closed comedone, also known as a whitehead, forms when a clogged pore remains closed at the skin's surface. This creates a small white or flesh-colored bump.

Here are the main causes of closed comedones:

1. Excess Sebum: The sebaceous glands produce an excessive amount of sebum, an oily substance meant to lubricate and protect the skin. This excess sebum can clog pores.
2. Accumulation of Dead Skin Cells: When dead skin cells are not shed effectively, they can mix with sebum and clog pores.
3. Bacterial Growth: Bacteria can multiply inside clogged pores, leading to inflammation.
4. Comedogenic Cosmetic Products: Certain skincare and makeup products can clog pores, promoting the formation of closed comedones.

What is an open comedone, also known as a blackhead?

An open comedone, or blackhead, forms when a clogged pore remains open at the skin's surface. The air oxidizes the sebaceous material, giving it a black color. The causes of an open comedone are similar to those of a closed comedone:

1. Excess Sebum: Similar to closed comedones, excessive sebum production by the sebaceous glands can clog pores.
2. Accumulation of Dead Skin Cells: Dead skin cells mix with sebum and clog pores.
3. Oxidation: When the clogged pore remains open, the sebaceous material inside the pore oxidizes upon contact with air, turning black.
4. Pollution and Impurities: Environmental impurities can accumulate in open pores, contributing to the formation of blackheads.

How to prevent comedones

The essential step to prevent comedones is cleansing morning and evening with a suitable product containing ingredients like salicylic acid and probiotics. The key rule for preventing comedones is to maintain good skin hygiene. Effective skin cleansing removes excess sebum, dead skin cells, and impurities that can clog pores. However, it's crucial to adopt a gentle and skin-friendly routine to avoid negative effects. Overly aggressive products can irritate the epidermis, leading to excess sebum production and increasing the risk of comedones.

Here are some recommendations for an optimal skincare routine:

• Cleanse your skin morning and evening with a gentle product.
• In the evening, remove your makeup before cleansing your skin.
• Always moisturize your skin after each cleanse, regardless of your skin type. Contrary to popular belief, oily skin also needs hydration (read: 'Which moisturizer for oily skin?').

To limit excess sebum production, follow these tips:

• Minimize UV exposure as much as possible. Whether from the sun or tanning beds, UV rays promote skin thickening, which hinders sebum flow.
• Use high-protection sunscreen when you are outdoors.
• Opt for non-comedogenic products suited to your skin type, whether they are skincare products, sunscreens, or cosmetics.
• Avoid overloading your skin with too much makeup.
• Adopt a balanced diet, rich in vegetables. Reduce your consumption of fatty, sugary, ultra-processed foods, and stimulants like coffee.
• If you notice excess sebum production after taking certain medications, consult your doctor to discuss potential side effects.
• For acne, whether it's cystic or not, medication may be necessary to reduce blackheads and whiteheads. Consult a dermatologist for suitable treatment.

By following these tips, you can effectively reduce the appearance of blackheads and whiteheads and maintain healthy, balanced skin.

How to get rid of blackheads and whiteheads?

To effectively get rid of blackheads and whiteheads, it's crucial to adopt a comprehensive and targeted approach. Blackheads and whiteheads, whether open or closed, are often the result of dead skin cells, excess oil (sebum), and sometimes even bacteria building up in the pores. To combat these factors, it's recommended to use skincare products specifically formulated to target their root cause.

Salicylic acid is one of the most effective ingredients for treating blackheads and whiteheads. By exfoliating deep within the pores, it removes dead skin cells and regulates oil (sebum) production, helping to prevent clogged pores. Retinoids are also valuable allies in the fight against blackheads and whiteheads. By promoting cell turnover, they help keep pores clear and prevent them from becoming clogged.

In some cases, using a comedone extractor can be considered for manually removing blackheads and whiteheads. However, it's crucial to do so with caution to avoid scars and infections. It's recommended to properly disinfect the skin and use gentle techniques to prevent irritation.

Finally, for persistent or severe blackheads and whiteheads, it is highly recommended to consult a dermatologist. These healthcare professionals have the knowledge and resources to assess your skin and recommend suitable treatments. They can prescribe stronger topical medications, such as more potent retinoids or products with higher concentrations of salicylic acid. In some cases, in-office procedures like chemical peels or professional extractions may also be recommended to effectively remove blackheads and whiteheads.

In summary, by combining good skin hygiene with the use of specific skincare products and, if needed, the help of a healthcare professional, it is entirely possible to get rid of blackheads and whiteheads and achieve healthier, more radiant skin.

Conclusion

Closed comedones (whiteheads) and open comedones (blackheads) are the result of clogged pores caused by excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. By adopting a suitable skincare routine and using the right products, it's possible to effectively prevent and treat these skin imperfections. The key is to keep skin clean and well-hydrated while avoiding products that can clog pores.