Blackheads and Whiteheads: An Overview

We have all dealt with acne breakouts at some point in our lives. Blackheads and whiteheads are common types of acne that are seen in teens and adults. But did you know that blackheads and whiteheads fall under non-inflammatory types of acne? They are called so as they generally don’t cause swelling and are easy to manage with over-the-counter medications.

Want to know how to remove your blackheads and whiteheads? It is crucial that you learn more about them and understand how you can treat them in the best way possible. Read along as we share with you everything you need to know about blackheads and whiteheads.

Blackheads & Whiteheads: Introduction

Typically, you will spot blackheads and whiteheads on your T zone (face, forehead, nose, chin) and they are caused when the sebum in your face is not able to find a way out of your skin because of clogged skin pores.

What is a blackhead?

Blackheads are easy to spot as you will see black colour on top of this type of acne. Wondering what causes blackheads? Blackheads happen when your skin pores are clogged because of sebum and dead skin cells. Remember the top of the pores are open and the rest of the pores are clogged.

What are whiteheads?

Unlike blackheads which have the top of the pores open, whiteheads don't have open pores. Since the pores are closed, whiteheads are more difficult to deal with in comparison to blackheads. They are characterised by closed bumps that are whitish or yellowish in colour. So, what causes whiteheads? Just like blackheads, whiteheads are caused because of clogged pores.

Is Non-Inflammatory Acne Severe?

The good news is that non-inflammatory acne is the mildest form of acne and it can be easily managed and treated with topical retinoids and toners which have salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.

4 Useful Blackheads & Whiteheads Removal Tips

Now that you know what blackheads and whiteheads are, let’s jump into managing, preventing and treating them.

Here are a few handy whiteheads and blackheads removal tips which you must know.

1. Never pop them

We agree that it can be satisfying to pop your blackheads or whiteheads but you must never do that as it might further irritate your skin or leave nasty scars on your face.

2. Invest in non-comedogenic makeup products

We know how much you love to deck up and hence we won’t ask you to stop wearing makeup if you have acne-prone skin. However, we suggest you invest in non-comedogenic skin care products and makeup products that won’t clog your pores and aggravate your acne breakout.

3. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser

Invest in a gentle face cleanser that will not irritate your acne breakouts and deeply clean your face without stripping off its natural oil.

4. Grab makeO skin(formely skinnsi) be bright AHA BHA exfoliating peel

Want a chemical peel for your face but don’t have the time to rush to your local salon? Fret not, we have got the perfect solution for you.

Bring home makeO skin(formely skinnsi) be bright AHA BHA exfoliating peel which is a peel solution that gets rid of blemishes and dark spots for you after just 4-6 applications. Packed with the goodness of AHAs and salicylic acid, this peel gently exfoliates your skin, unclogs your pores, minimises sebum secretion and reduces dark spots and dullness. You can now elevate your skincare routine by adding this peel solution to your weekly skincare routine to get clear and glowing skin.

As you can tell, blackheads and whiteheads are nothing serious and you can easily treat them using over-the-counter medications and home remedies.

Get Clear Skin at Home with makeO skin(formely skinnsi)

Want to get spotless and radiant skin without having to go to your local salon? makeO skin(formely skinnsi) at-home skin treatments give you flawless skin from the convenience of your home.

Sceptical about the quality of our service? All our skin treatments are performed by dermatologists and trained therapists so you can be assured knowing that you are in good hands. Go through the makeO website to select from a wide range of skin treatments, from hydra facial, derma facial, and acne treatment to anti-ageing treatment, instant glow facial and oil control facial. You can also book a free virtual consultation with our dermatologists.

FAQs:

Do you pop whiteheads or blackheads?

No, you should never pop whiteheads or blackheads as that can lead to severe skin damage and leave behind blemishes and stubborn acne scars.

What is inside a whitehead?

A whitehead is filled with sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria. Whiteheads are not contagious and they are not transmitted from a person to another person.

Do blackheads go away naturally?

Yes, blackheads can go on their own sometimes without you having to do anything about them. This depends on how deep your blackheads are embedded in your skin.

What causes black and whiteheads?

Blackheads and whiteheads are caused by clogged skin pores and excessive sebum production. It can be caused by factors like genetics, puberty, pollution, menstrual cycle and stress.