Blackheads
People of all ages and skin types tend to be affected by blackheads. The leading cause behind these tiny dark bumps is the oil buildup, the presence of bacteria in the pores of the skin, and dead skin cells that often prove challenging to treat. Blackheads can impact an individual’s self-confidence and mental health, but the good news is, it’s treatable.
Awareness of the causes of blackheads and their effective treatment methods will help ensure healthy and clear skin. This article provides all the relevant information on the types, causes, and blackhead treatments.
Causes of blackheads
There are various causes of blackheads, all of which are listed below:
- Increase in the production of oil by the sebaceous gland
- An increase in the presence of bacteria on the surface of the skin
- An unhealthy skincare routine
- Abnormal keratin formation
- Genetics
5 ways to treat blackheads
Although there are a plethora of ways to get rid of blackheads, here are mentioned the top five effective blackheads treatment.
1. Over-the-counter medications:
There are various over-the-counter medications available for the effective removal of blackheads. This includes skin lotions or cleansers containing salicylic acid, azelaic acid, or benzoyl peroxide that help improve the skin by removing dead skin cells, killing microorganisms on the skin, and preventing clogged hair follicles. These ingredients can also be found in blackhead remover cream.
2. Prescribed retinoids:
Retinoids, namely Differin, Retin-A, and Tazorac, help break up whiteheads and blackheads and prevent the pores from getting clogged. However, the use of topical retinoids for blackheads must be followed strictly per the dermatologist’s recommendation.
3. Oral antibiotics:
A dermatologist can also recommend using several oral antibiotics that reduce bacterial growth responsible for blackheads.
4. Microdermabrasion:
This procedure is performed with the help of an instrument that sands the skin, thereby removing the skin’s uppermost layer to free the clogs that lead to blackheads. This proves effective for people who were previously unsuccessful with other methods of removing blackheads on the face, nose, or cheeks.
5. Laser skin resurfacing:
Laser skin resurfacing is one of the best ways to remove blackheads, especially those that are too stubborn to go off. It exerts short, palpitating beams of light at the blackheads to reduce the oil production by sebaceous glands.
Conclusion
However, to get rid of blackheads, it is also essential to seek the proper dermatologically recommended treatment method. Self-prescribed medications will not act as the best way to remove blackheads, as there might be underlying reasons behind why they persist. Despite being a common skin concern, they can impact one’s mental health significantly. Therefore take action wisely and follow the recommended method of treatment strictly.
FAQs related to blackheads
1. How common are blackheads?
Blackheads are indeed a common skin concern that affects people of all ages. The most common places where blackheads can be found are the forehead, chin, and nose, along with various other parts of the body, including the chest and back.
2. What are the symptoms of blackheads?
The common symptoms of blackheads are:
- Dark tiny bumps on the skin’s surface
- Uneven or rough skin texture
- Enlarged pores
- Mild inflammation
Disregarding these symptoms might cause the blackheads to persist in the long run. Seek immediate medical attention to get rid of these.
3. Are blackheads contagious?
No, blackheads are not contagious. As they are caused due to clogged pores, they can occur in anyone. Blackheads are not caused by bacteria, viruses, or any contagious agents; therefore, they can happen to anyone.
4. Do blackheads leave holes?
No blackheads do not usually tend to leave holes but can contribute to the appearance of enlarged pores. These might seem like holes or slight depressions in the skin’s texture.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Book a consultation with Ova Singapore’s medical team to learn more about reproductive healthcare treatments here.