What Is a Blackhead?

Blackheads, which are non-inflammatory acne, are a common problem for sufferers of all ages, but they are more than just a problem for teenagers in particular when they contribute to self-image and confidence. There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding blackheads and acne problems. It is important to learn what blackheads are, what causes them and what can be done to treat the skin.

Significance

Blackheads can be found mainly on the face, shoulders and back of any person. They can be found on other areas of the body where there are large pores. Facial blemishes are a cause for many people to feel self-conscious. This is particularly true for teenagers, who deal with the dark colored spots on the nose, chin and forehead. Teenagers need to realize that the blackheads are not the result of something they did 'wrong'.

Function

A blackhead or comedo can form because the hair follicle is large. The pore fills with sebum, which is a mixture of lipids including glycerides and sloughed off dead skin cells as the body cleanses itself. The skin cells attach to the open pore, causing a build-up of sebaceous oils. The material has a chemical reaction and oxygen can get into the pore opening, producing a black or dark coloration to the area. Sebum or sebaceous oil build-up can be due to an increase of hormones due to puberty.

Misconceptions

Blackheads are not caused by the food that a person eats. Chocolate and fried foods do not cause acne. Blackheads are not formed because the skin is dirty. They are not caused by poor facial or body cleansing. In fact, scrubbing of the skin can cause more problems. The rough treatment of soft skin can cause infection to set in and pimples to form. Excessive scrubbing of the skin can cause tears or strip the skin of natural oils. Infection can infiltrate the skin tears and blackheads can progress to painful, inflamed pimples. Skin that is stripped of oil will begin to produce more oil and the cycle will continue.

Treatment

Blackheads and acne in general can not be cured at this time. This widespread skin condition can be temporarily cleared up by a number of treatment products that are on the market. Severe cases should be looked at by a dermatologist. The skin condition that has a combination of blackheads and pimples may require medical treatments or antibiotics to give relief from pain and skin damage. Skin that has blackheads can be washed gently with a mild soap no more than twice a day. Use skin toners that contain no alcohol. Benzoyl peroxide can be used to lightly clean the skin. It comes in concentrations in 2.5 to 10 percent solutions. It can cause dry, irritated skin so it is important to adjust the degree of concentration.

Prevention/Solution

You can not prevent blackheads. It is important to keep your skin clean, but do not overdo it. You can use mild products to keep your skin clean and moisturized to prevent dryness that will cause the sebaceous glands to produce excessive oil. Remember to keep alcohol-based products away from your skin. Do not squeeze blackheads. Your fingernails can transfer bacteria to broken skin and acne will spread. Be aware that sun tanning and burns will dry your skin and the oil production will begin to overtake your pores again. Hats, helmets and shoulder pads can cause friction, which irritates your sweaty, oily skin. After sports activities, get the gear off and shower as soon as possible.

Resources

• Acne Facts