Learn about the causes of blackheads and how to treat them safely

Blackheads are among the most common skin problems, especially for people with oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. Although they are not dangerous, they cause great annoyance to many because they affect facial clarity and create an unwanted appearance that reduces self-confidence.

In this article, we will learn about the causes of blackheads, the most effective ways to get rid of them, plus practical tips to prevent them and keep the skin healthy and clear.

What are blackheads?

Blackheads, medically known as Open comedones, are a type of non-inflammatory acne. They appear on the skin as small black dots from partial pore blockage while pores stay open.

How do blackheads form?

Blackheads form from dead skin cells and excess fats inside skin pores (sebum). When exposed to air due to partially open pores, the melanin in the sebum oxidizes and turns black.

Besides blackheads, there are also whiteheads, another type of pore blockage that differs in color, appearance, and effect.

Learn how to protect your skin in winter: Winter Skincare Routine

What are whiteheads?

Whiteheads, medically known as closed comedones. Whiteheads result from complete pore blockage by fats (sebum) and dead skin cells. Pores are fully closed, so fats do not contact air and oxidize like blackheads, but they may turn into inflamed acne if untreated.

Whiteheads appear as small bumps on the skin, white or skin-colored, usually without pain or redness.

Where do blackheads appear?

Blackheads usually appear in:
T-zone, the forehead, nose, and chin area.
Parts of the cheeks.
Some parts of the chest and back.

Now let's learn about the causes or factors that help blackheads appear?

Causes and factors leading to blackheads

Increased secretion of sebum (natural oils) by sebaceous glands.
Blockage of skin pores with dead skin cells.
Using cosmetics unsuitable for your skin type, which can clog pores and cause blackheads.
Not cleaning the skin regularly.
Over-cleansing the skin removes natural oils that protect and moisturize the skin, which stimulates sebaceous glands to increase sebum production to compensate for this loss.
Diet: Some foods increase sebum secretion in some people, such as foods rich in sugar, carbohydrates, or dairy products.
Stress and psychological pressure that stimulate hormone secretion like cortisol hormone, which increases sebaceous glands' sebum production.
Hormonal changes in the body that occur during puberty or menstruation for women or when taking birth control pills.
Genetic factors: The size and density of pores and the activity level of sebaceous glands, which determines skin type (oily, combination, sensitive, dry).
Medications that stimulate sebaceous glands to increase sebum production, such as medications containing steroids and androgens.

After learning about blackheads and their causes, let's move on to how to treat them.

Methods of treating blackheads

There must be a daily routine to clean the skin by:

Using a suitable facial cleanser to remove excess fats and dead skin cells.
Use cleanser twice daily, morning and evening, so bacteria do not accumulate on the skin surface and skin is fresher.
Exfoliate the skin once or twice a week.
Use a suitable toner to protect pores, because it reduces excess fat in pores and also removes makeup and cleanser residue that may clog pores.
Some types of toners contain zinc or niacinamide, which are astringent substances that reduce pore size over time.
It is better to use products containing retinol or salicylic acid.
Use suitable masks like clay and charcoal.
Avoid pressing on blackheads so the skin does not inflame and scars do not form.

Medical methods of treating blackheads:

Blackheads are treated at dermatology clinics such as Dr. Marwa Abdullah's Clinic in Riyadh through:

Chemical peeling using salicylic acid or alpha hydroxy acids.
Treatment with blue light and laser.

Strong topical prescription formulas such as:

Retinoids which work to renew skin cells and prevent pore blockage.
Or benzoyl peroxide which works to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation in pores.

And now we want to present you with the most important tips that maintain skin vitality and freshness.

Tips to maintain skin health and freshness:

It is always better to consult a dermatologist before using medical treatments.
Healthy nutrition and drinking water is very useful to make skin more glowing and healthy.
Having a daily skin cleaning routine is important.
You must use products suitable for your skin.
You should avoid unknown formulas so they do not harm the skin.
Stay away from worry, stress, and psychological pressure.
You must change pillowcases.
Avoid long sun exposure.
Using appropriate sunscreen is not a luxury but an important thing to protect the skin.
Avoid touching or picking at the face with your hands or any sharp tool or any unsuitable tools for the skin.