Black Heads vs Whiteheads, Home Remedies and Causes

What are black heads?

Black heads are small black spots or bumps on your skin. They are caused by clogged hair fossils due to the accumulation of dead cells and excess oil (sebum).

You might wonder where it acquires the colour black? When this mixture of oil and dead skin cells is exposed to air, it oxidizes and turns black. The dark pigment produced by keratinocytes of the hair follicle can also be a contributing factor

These small bumps usually appear on areas of the skin where oil production is high, such as the face, particularly in the T-zone or  the nose, chin, and forehead.

Factors such as hormonal changes, genetics, certain medications, and skincare products can contribute to the development of blackheads. Proper skincare, including regular cleansing and exfoliation, can help prevent and reduce the occurrence of blackheads. Additionally, treatments such as topical retinoids, salicylic acid, and professional extractions may be recommended by dermatologists.

How are black heads caused?

Sebaceous glands are present throughout your body and the majority of them are connected to hair follicles. Blackheads and whiteheads are comedones, which are caused by inflammation in the hair follicule/sebaceous gland. Blackheads are open comedones, while whiteheads are closed comedones. Inflammation in sebaceous glands can happen because of-

Increase in sebum (oily material produced by the sebaceous gland) production.

Rare formation of keratin (the protein that helps make your hair, skin and nails).

Increase in androgen

Excess of bacterial presence on skin that causes acne.

How is it different from white heads?

Whiteheads, also known as closed comedones, are small, white or flesh-colored bumps that appear on the skin. This blockage occurs when the natural shedding of skin cells and excess oil (sebum) production combine to create a barrier within the follicle.

Unlike blackheads, which are open at the surface and oxidize, whiteheads remain closed, trapping blocked materials beneath the skin's surface and appearing as raised bumps.

The main difference between whiteheads and blackheads lies in their appearance and exposure to air. Whiteheads are closed comedones, meaning the clogged follicle remains closed, causing the debris to remain trapped beneath the skin. In contrast, blackheads are open comedones, allowing the trapped debris to oxidize upon exposure to air, resulting in their characteristic dark color.

Both whiteheads and blackheads are forms of acne and can occur on various parts of the body, but whiteheads are typically more prone to inflammation and may be more difficult to extract due to their closed nature.

What are some changes you can incorporate in  your diet and lifestyle to decrease the chances of blackheads?

Making changes to your diet and lifestyle can help reduce the occurrence of blackheads and improve the overall health of your skin. Start by staying hydrated and consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins while minimizing dairy, sugar, and processed foods. Opt for low-glycemic index foods and incorporate omega-3 fatty acids to help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation.

Ensure you get enough sleep each night and maintain good hygiene by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser twice daily and avoiding excessive touching.

Are there any methods you can practise at home to remove blackheads?

There are several at-home methods you can practise to remove blackheads.

Nose pore strips: are adhesive strips that stick to the skin and are meant to pull out blackheads and other impurities when removed. 

Comedone extractor: its a small tool with a loop on one end that can be used to gently press out blackheads. It is available in different loop sizes and shapes in the market.

Exfoliating scrubs: containing ingredients like glycolic, salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can help to loosen blackheads and remove dead skin cells. 

Steam treatments: where you hold your face over a bowl of hot water or use a facial steamer, can also help to open up pores and make blackheads easier to remove. However, it's important to use these methods carefully and gently to avoid damaging the skin.

Honey and Cinnamon Mask: Mix together 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to form a thick paste. Apply the mixture to clean skin, leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. Create a paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and water. Gently massage the paste onto damp skin, focusing on areas with blackheads, then rinse off with warm water.

Lemon Juice and Sugar Scrub: Mix together 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with 1 tablespoon of sugar to create a scrub. Gently massage the mixture onto damp skin for a few minutes, then rinse off with warm water.

Green Tea Steam: Brew a pot of green tea and pour it into a large bowl. Lean over the bowl and drape a towel over your head to trap the steam. Steam your face for 5-10 minutes to open up pores, then rinse with cool water.

Oatmeal Mask: Cook plain oatmeal according to package instructions and let it cool. Apply the cooled oatmeal to your face, leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.

Conclusion

Blackheads are small spots caused by clogged hair pores due to accumulation of oil and dead skin cells. It is different from whiteheads as they are open comedones. One can use exfoliating scrubs, nose pore strips, steam treatments and masks like oatmeal, honey and cinnamon to remove blackheads at home.