Removing Blackheads – Types, Causes, Preventions & Treatment of Blackheads
Why get rid of Blackheads
Help clear your blackheads with specially targeted products
Blackheads form from a mix of dead skin cells and excess skin oils, blocking pores, and when coming in contact with air, discolouring to that classic blackhead, which is not dirt and therefore cannot simply be washed away. The Visibly Clear® Blackhead Eliminating Scrub contains salicylic acid, a specific blackhead-fighting ingredient. The scrub contains micro beads to help unclog the pores and remove excess oil to help keep the pores clear, and prevent new blackheads from forming.
Below are simple helpful tips that you can use on a daily basis to help eliminate black pores for good.
What are blackheads?
We all know them; those small, dark spots that appear on the skin. But how do they appear and why?
Blackheads are formed by the accumulation of skin debris, bacteria and oil in the opening of a pore. When exposed to air, the Melanin in the oily substance turns dark because of the oxidization process, giving blackheads their name. Blackheads are said to be the first stage of acne, and they might also develop into a pimple. Fortunately, reclaiming your healthy skin and eliminating and preventing blackheads is easy, when done the right way.
Types of blackheads
There are actually whiteheads and blackheads, depending on how they form on the skin.
The oil produced through your pores helps in naturally lubricating the hair and skin. In normal conditions, it drains out of the pores’ openings on the surface. When blocked for any reason, the sebum and bacteria begin to accumulate on the opening of the pore.
If the build-up of oil has no opening to the surface of the skin, it’s called a whitehead. If the pore opens to the surface allowing air to enter, it becomes a blackhead - getting its dark colour from exposure to oxygen
Causes of blackheads
Changing hormones are almost always the cause behind most blemishes like blackheads and acne. High levels of DHT hormone (dihydrotestosterone), especially in the phase of puberty and adolescence, usually cause the overproduction of oil glands, resulting in clogged pores.
Once clogged, the accumulation of oils, dead cells, and bacteria will show in the form of blackheads, especially around the nose, chin, and cheeks.
While puberty is a common cause for such hormonal changes, blackheads might appear at any age depending on the circumstances. Using oily makeups and skin care products for example can also clog your pores and make your skin more prone to blackheads.
Prevention of blackheads
Blackheads might be stubborn to remove, but they can’t beat a consistent skin care routine!
Steps to prevent blackheads:
- Exfoliate regularly with products containing alpha or beta hydroxy acids, loosening and sweeping away old skin cells and encouraging the growth of new, more evenly toned skin.
- Make smart cosmetic choices like oil-free makeup, moisturizer, and foundation products that don’t block your pores.
- Always remove your makeup from your face with proper cleansers before going to sleep.
- Use a facial cleanser that’s clinically proven to remove excess skin oils (sebum) without over-drying the skin.
- A healthy lifestyle complemented with an effective skin care routine is the key to keep your skin healthy and smooth. Take good care of your diet, drink plenty of water and protect your skin from the sun.
- Whatever you do, try not to squeeze out blackheads or other spots. It could simply make matters worse!
Blackhead myths
Our parents and grandparents almost always tell us to avoid eating chocolates and greasy foods, especially in hot climate countries like in the Middle East. They think that such fatty foods encourage the formation of blackheads and acne, but the research in this area has shown that food does not cause blackheads nor makes them worse. It’s great to know that your favourite chocolate is guilt-free!
Treating blackheads
Having a daily facial cleansing routine is the key to have a smooth and clear skin week after week. Cleanse and exfoliate your skin on a daily basis to sweep away old skin cells and give your skin an even glowing appearance.
Keep in mind, however, that simple skin cleansers might not be able to remove blackheads. Look for creams, lotions or gels that contain salicylic acid, like Visibly Clear® Blackhead Eliminating Daily Scrub. Salicylic acid is great for oily skin, and has the ability to help normalising the shedding of the skin, preventing clogging the pores and giving you a blackhead-free and smooth skin.