Blackheads: how to get rid of them?

Blackheads are patches of fat that clogg the pores of the skin and then oxidize as they come into contact with the air. Blackheads develop on the T-zone: the chin, the forehead and the nose.

They are caused primarily by a hair canal being blocked by keratinocytes. It is caused by a combination of sebum and dead cells. When they come into contact with the air, the cells oxidize and block the canal. Blackheads occur, and if they are not treated, they may lead to whiteheads or even spots.

There are many kinds of blackhead:

• Open comedones which appear alongside acne and are caused by an accumulation of sebum in the sebaceous glands. This prevents the release of sebum and triggers the development of a microcyst.
• Blackheads due to dilated pores. Dilated pores accumulate pollution and impurities all around us.

It may also be tempting to squeeze them, but it is not advisable to do so. This is because if you pinch blackheads, they can be infected with any germs you have on your fingertips. As a result, pierced blackheads can become infected and cysts can form, leaving scars.

Blackheads: what are the causes?

Blackheads may have a number of causes:

• Puberty: blackheads are mostly triggered by hormonal changes during this period. Androgens are hormones that promote the development of sebum. Later in life, particularly for women, blackheads occur during pregnancy as a result of taking certain medications, or even during menopause.
• Some cosmetic products can induce blackheads: this is the case, for example, with some bronzers that can clog pores. They are also greasy and can make it easier for blackheads to form.
• Poor diet: too much fat or sugar can cause blackheads in your diet. Smoking can lead to the emergence of blackheads, too.
• Genetics: people with oily skin also have more blackheads. Their pores are more dilated and contain more sebum, which blocks the pores and turns into blackheads when it comes into contact with the air.

Blackheads: what are the treatments?

There are a number of therapies available to get rid of blackheads: creams, home remedies and other beauty salon treatments. However, if these are insufficient, it is better to find a dermatologist who will be able to offer a remedy that is best tailored to your needs.

In this way, the practitioner will be able to direct you towards procedures that will deep-clean the skin and re-balance the production of sebum to prevent the development of blackheads.