Blackheads… what are they and how can you avoid them?


What are blackheads?

Blackheads and whiteheads, also called as comedones, are very similar in nature. They are a collection of sebum and skin cells gathered in your hair follicles. Blackheads are called so because when the hair follicle is open it is exposed to oxygen which oxidizes the oils, thus turning them brown in colour.

Though they are called as blackheads, most of them range of colours from yellow to black. It is the light reflection that makes it look darker. Blackheads are not dirt. And don’t blame your hygiene reasons for its cause. The cause roots from below your skin surface. So, next time don’t say that it is because you did not wash your face properly.

What are the common places to get blackheads?

Blackheads are usually spotted on the face. They appear on the nose or the sides of the nose. But, there are people who get blackheads on their ears, shoulders and back.

 How to get rid of it?


You can also use a blackhead plucker to get rid of it

You can unplug and dislodge the build-up using your finger tips. But, doctors don’t recommend this because our nails contain oil and dirt that may not be visible to the naked eye. By using cleansers, exfoliators and acne products that contain salicylic acid, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide or combination of the three, you can loosen the dead cells and unplug the follicles.

What are the effective ways to avoid blackheads?

It is important for you to keep your hands off your face. Whether you support your face with your hand or sleep with hands on face; avoid it. The dirt and oil that may not be easily visible are the reasons for blackheads.

Talking on phone everyday can cause sweating or release oil from your face. So, clean your phone everyday to ensure that this oil does not come in contact with your face all over again.

Wearing a hat (especially if you have oily skin) can cause blackheads and whiteheads on your forehead. So, avoid wearing hats regularly, or take breaks every now and then.

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