What causes blackheads? Popular knowledge about blackheads

Good evening everyone, ~ There are two reasons for closed comedones and blackheads: one is clogged pores, and the other is excessive oil secretion. So, why do pores get clogged and why does excessive oil secretion occur? Today’s sharing is a popular science article about blackheads. If you often get blackheads, save it quickly.

Blackhead Knowledge Popularization

▍What are blackheads?

Open comedones are what we often call blackheads.

Follicular papules have a black spot in the center of the papule top. The distribution range is very wide, and it may appear on the face, upper chest and back, shoulder blades, chest, back of the neck, buttocks, etc.

Because blackheads mostly appear on the face, especially the nose, they have always attracted much attention.

In fact, it is the dead skin cells that clog the pores. Sebum and dirt cannot be discharged smoothly and are blocked in the pores. They slowly accumulate and form a lipid plug, which is the thing you pull out when you pull out blackheads.

This thing may be partially exposed outside the skin, or it may be completely hidden deep in the pores. Those that are exposed will be oxidized into black when in contact with air, which are blackheads; those that are not exposed are whiteheads.

At this point, everyone should have some understanding of blackheads. Let’s continue to talk about why blackheads appear.

▍Why do blackheads appear?

The causes of blackheads and whiteheads are the same, but slightly different. First, excessive oil production, and second, clogged pores.

As for why there is excessive oil production and why pores are clogged, Xiao Si explained it very clearly in "Closed pores on the face are often caused by blockage", mainly the following points:

1. Excessive sebum secretion

2. Excessive cleaning

3. Improper skin care products

4. Bad living habits such as staying up late and not paying attention to diet

In short, if blackheads don’t grow, they will grow whiteheads. Moreover, blackheads are impossible to remove completely, as they always appear again during the spring breeze, especially when oil secretion is high.

▍How to remove blackheads

Blackheads are not a disease and generally do not require treatment, but they are difficult to completely remove in one go. There are many opinions on the market, let me briefly summarize:

1. Don’t squeeze

Don’t squeeze blackheads, don’t squeeze whiteheads, and don’t squeeze pimples. Even though you don't listen, I still want to nag you. Excessive squeezing and stimulation will cause damage to the dermis and lead to enlarged pores.

2. Needle cleaning

Everyone should know about needle cleaning. The doctor will use a small tool with a special structure to help you clean and remove blackheads by physical methods.

Although the operation is simple, it is best not to do the needle cleaning yourself, as it can easily leave scars if you don’t handle it properly.

3. Tear products

There are many products of this type, and their main promotional function is to remove blackheads. However, while pulling out blackheads, it also damages the stratum corneum, which can easily cause the skin to become sensitive, so it is not recommended.

4. Acid brushing

Use skin care products containing acids to promote skin metabolism, help clear blocked hair follicles, and allow the oil inside to be discharged.

However, when using acid, the skin's tolerance must be considered. It is recommended to use it locally from low to high concentration and from low to high frequency. Use with caution on sensitive skin~

5. Medical beauty

There are many medical beauty methods, and many types of lasers can be used to remove blackheads. If your blackheads are particularly severe or you are particularly concerned about them, you can consider medical beauty. But you need to find a formal and reliable institution~

6. Medication

Medication for blackheads, such as retinoic acid (all-trans A acid, isotretinoin), benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, fruit acid and other ointments, can dissolve lipid plugs and help clear blocked hair follicles. They are effective for blackheads and acne, but they need to be done under the guidance of a doctor. Do not apply medication privately.

Because of the high content of ingredients and its irritation, private use is prohibited, especially for pregnant women and people preparing for pregnancy.

7. Oil massage

The principle of using oil to dissolve oil is simple, but combined with actual operating conditions, it is only effective in some cases.

8. Wait

The last resort is to wait. As you age, oil secretion decreases, and with normal cleansing and skin care, blackheads will gradually decrease.

Key point: If the blackheads are serious, going to the hospital is the right solution. Even if skin care products are effective, they are limited.