Blackheads

Definition

Blackheads are small, dark-colored bumps that appear on the skin's surface due to clogged hair follicles. They are commonly found on the T-zone of the face, particularly on the nose, chin, and forehead. Blackheads are a type of acne and can be visually noticeable.

What are the main signs and symptoms of Blackheads?

Clinically diagnosed

Blackheads are clinically diagnosed through visual examination by a dermatologist or skincare professional. The following details are taken into consideration during the diagnosis:

• Appearance: Blackheads are characterized by small, dark or black bumps on the skin's surface. They are typically seen on the nose, chin, forehead, and other areas with active oil glands.
• Texture: Blackheads have an open comedone that is filled with excess oil, dead skin cells, and debris. They can be slightly raised and have a slightly rough texture.
• Extraction Test: During diagnosis, gentle pressure may be applied around the blackhead to see if the plug can be extracted. This helps to confirm the diagnosis and differentiate blackheads from other skin concerns.

If you suspect you have blackheads, it is recommended to see a dermatologist or skincare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Treatment options

For medical treatments, there are a few options for treating blackheads:

• Topical Retinoids: Prescription-strength creams or gels containing ingredients like tretinoin or adapalene can help unclog pores, prevent new blackheads from forming, and promote cell turnover.
• Chemical Peels: A dermatologist can perform a chemical peel using salicylic acid or glycolic acid to exfoliate the skin and remove blackheads.
• Microdermabrasion: This procedure involves exfoliating the outermost layer of the skin using a handheld device to reduce blackheads.
• Extraction: A dermatologist can perform extractions to manually remove blackheads using specialized tools.

As for skincare products, you can consider the following:

• Salicylic Acid Cleanser: Look for a cleanser containing 2% salicylic acid to help exfoliate the skin and remove excess oil.
• Topical Retinoid Cream: An over-the-counter retinoid cream can help unclog pores and prevent blackheads. Look for ingredients like adapalene or retinol.
• Clay Mask: Applying a clay mask once or twice a week can help absorb excess oil and unclog pores.
• Oil-Free Moisturizer: Choose a moisturizer that is labeled as non-comedogenic to avoid clogging the pores further.

Beauty procedures

When it comes to treating blackheads, there are several effective beauty procedures available:

• Extractions: Professional estheticians can manually remove blackheads using specialized tools. It's important to get extractions done by a trained professional to avoid skin damage.
• Chemical Peels: Chemical peels containing ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid can help exfoliate the skin and remove blackheads.
• Microdermabrasion: This procedure involves exfoliating the top layer of the skin to unclog pores and remove blackheads.
• High-Frequency Treatment: High-frequency devices use a mild electrical current to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation, which can help with blackheads.
• Laser Therapy: Certain laser treatments, such as Nd:YAG laser, can target and reduce the appearance of blackheads.
• Facials: Regular facials, particularly those including steam and extractions, can help remove blackheads and keep the skin clean and clear.

While these procedures can be effective, it's crucial to consult with a skincare professional to determine the most suitable treatment for your specific skin type and condition.

Diet

Diet can indeed have an impact on the formation and severity of blackheads. Here are a few ways your diet can affect blackheads:

• High glycemic foods: Consuming foods with a high glycemic index, such as sugary and processed foods, can trigger an increase in insulin levels. This can lead to excess oil production in the skin, contributing to the formation of blackheads.
• Dairy products: Some studies have suggested a potential link between dairy consumption and the development of acne, including blackheads. It is believed that the hormones and growth factors present in dairy may contribute to clogged pores and increased sebum production.
• Fatty and fried foods: Diets high in greasy, fatty, and fried foods can increase oil production in the skin and potentially aggravate blackheads.
• Inadequate hydration: Not drinking enough water can lead to dehydration and dry skin. Dry skin can in turn trigger the overproduction of oil, leading to clogged pores and the formation of blackheads.

While diet plays a role, it is important to note that blackheads are primarily caused by excess oil and dead skin cells clogging the pores. Maintaining a balanced diet, along with a good skincare routine and regular exfoliation, can help manage and prevent blackheads.

Exercise

Exercise can actually have a positive impact on blackheads. When you exercise, you increase blood circulation throughout your body, including your face. This increased blood flow can help deliver oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells, which can promote healthier skin.

Additionally, exercise can make you sweat, which helps to unclog pores by flushing out dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. Sweating can also help to remove excess sebum, which is a common cause of blackheads.

However, it's important to keep in mind that exercise alone may not completely eliminate blackheads. It should be combined with a good skincare routine that includes regular cleansing, exfoliation, and using non-comedogenic products to prevent the formation of blackheads.

Oral supplements studied for Blackheads

Several oral supplements have been studied for their potential benefits in reducing blackheads:

• Zinc: Taking zinc supplements may help reduce blackheads by regulating oil production and promoting skin healing. Recommended dosage ranges between 30-60 mg per day.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: These supplements have anti-inflammatory properties and may help improve overall skin health, reducing the appearance of blackheads. Aim for a dosage of 1000-2000 mg per day.
• Vitamin A: Vitamin A derivatives, such as isotretinoin, can effectively reduce blackheads. However, these medications require a prescription and close medical supervision.
• B vitamins: B vitamins, especially niacinamide (vitamin B3), can help regulate oil production and improve the texture of the skin, reducing blackheads. The recommended dosage varies depending on the specific B vitamin.
• Green tea extract: Green tea contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and sebum production, potentially minimizing blackheads. Follow the dosage instructions on the supplement label.

Remember, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist before starting any new oral supplement regimen to ensure it is safe and suitable for your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

References

1. Microbiome and Probiotics in Acne Vulgaris-A Narrative Review.
2. Complementary therapies for acne vulgaris.
3. Stress and its impairment of skin barrier function.
4. Fundamental research on the action mechanism of the 800 nm semiconductor laser on skin blackheads and coarse pores.
5. In vitro and in vivo study of the efficacy of a new sebum control essence.
6. Artificial intelligence analysis of over a million Chinese men and women reveals level of dark circle in the facial skin aging process.
7. The effect of physically applied alpha hydroxyl acids on the skin pore and comedone.
8. Light therapies for acne.
9. Bio-Based Nano-Enabled Cosmetic Formulations for the Treatment of Cutibacterium acnes-Associated Skin Infections.
10. [Hormonal factors in etiology of common acne].
11. Nodular Elastoidosis with Cysts and Acne: A Case Report.
12. Development of a new patient-reported outcome measure for facial acne: the Acne Symptom and Impact Scale (ASIS).
13. Acne analysis, grading and computational assessment methods: an overview.
14. Differential diagnosis of facial acne on black skin.
15. Yellow lesions and blackheads. Patient's face shows signs of marked sun damage, with keratoses and wrinkling.
16. Spontaneous comedones on the skin of hairless descendants of Mexican hairless dogs.