WHAT IS WHITEHEAD ?
Whitehead that forms when pores become clogged with oil,bacteria and dead skin cells.these are close comedones.It is very common skin condition that mostly affect your face, neck , back ,chest and T-Zone (This zone include forehead , nose and chin ).Whiteheads are types of acne vulgaris.
WHAT IS BLACKHEADS ?
Blackheads that forms when pores become clogged with oil , dead skin cells and bacteria.these are open comedones .It is very common condition that mostly affects your face ,neck, back and T-Zone(.forehead,nose and chin ) Blackheads are type of acne vulgaris.
WHAT IS DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WHITEHEAD AND BLACKHEADS
|
WHITEHEADS |
BLACKHEADS |
|
Whiteheads
appear as white , small or flesh-colored bumps on the skin |
Blackheads
appear as dark,small bump on the skin. |
|
In
whiteheads ,the content are not exposed to air and do not oxidize, so they
remain white or flesh-colored |
In
blackheads, the content are exposed to air and oxidise,so they remain Black. |
|
They
are called closed comedones. |
they
are called open comedones. |
|
They
are non-inflammatory, meaning they are not usually accompanied by redness and
swelling. |
They
are also non-inflammatory. |
CAUSES OF WHITEHEADS AND BLACKHEADS
1. EXCESS SEBUM PRODUCTION
Sebum , an oily substance produce by the sebaceous gland ,they are located on the skin.When the production of the sebum increases,it can mix with dead skin cells and other debris leading to pore blockages.Excess sebum production in acne occure due to various factor such as hormonal changes , genetics and environmental influences.
2.BACTERIA
Acne can aggravated by bacteria ,particularly a type called propionibacterium acnes. when pores become clogged bacteria can multiply within the pore leading to inflammation and acne lesions.
3.EXCESS DEAD SKIN CELLS
The outer layer of the skin constantly sheds dead skin cells , which can mix with sebum and accumulate in the pores, this can lead to inflammation and the formation of pimples.
4.HORMONAL CHANGES
Hormonal changes such as those during puberty , menstruation , pregnancy or hormonal imbalance,can increase sebum production and leading to acne formation.
5.CERTAIN MEDICATIONS AND COSMETIC
Certain medication such as anticonvulsants, corticosteroids and hormonal treatment can contribute to pore blockages and acne formation .oil-based cosmetics and certain skincare ingredients may exacerbate acne in susceptible individual.
6.DIET
Certain dietary factor such as , high glcemic index foods and dairy products may influence acne development in some individuals.while the role of diet in acne is not fully understood.
7.GENETICS
Family history of acne are more likely to expierience in themselves.
8.ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
Environmental factors ,such as pollution ,humidity and sweaty condition can exacerbate acne by clogging pores or irritating the skin.
TREATMENT OF WHITEHEADS AND BLACKHEADS
Non prescription medication can get rid of whitehead and blackheads on your face .some medications include -
1.SALISYLIC ACID
It is commonly found in over the counter for blackheads and whiteheads as cleanser or lotion .It helps remove the top layer of damaged skin. Salisylic acid dissolves dead skin cells to prevent your hair follicles from clogging.
2.RETINOIDS
Topical retinoids such as tretinoin adapalene and tazarotene , help breakup whiteheads and blackheads helps to prevent clogged pores.if you may notice a change in skin color or peeling using retinoids every other day or using them at the same time as a moisturizer can reduce this side effect
3.BENZOYL PEROXIDE
This is available as an over the counter product.Benzoyl peroxide works by killing acne causing bacteria and reducing inflammation.It is available in various strengths and formulations.Lower concentrations and wash formulations are less irritating to your skin.dryness and irritation is a common side effect.
If your whiteheads don't go away with non prescription medications , your healthcare provider may recommend
PROFESSIONAL TREATMENT
1.ORAL ANTIBIOTICS
In moderate to severe acne oral antibiotics like minocyclin , doxycyclin or tetracyclin may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and control bacterial growth.
2.ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES
It helps to manage acne in women due to hormonal acne .Certain types of birth control pills containing hormones like estrogen and progestine can regulate hormone levels and acne breakouts.
3.EXTRACTION
Dermatologist can perform manual extraction of whiteheads and blackheads using specialized tools to gently remove the content of clogged pores.
4.MICRODERMABRASION
A Dermatologist uses a specialized instrument to your skin.Removing the top layers of your skin frees the clogs that cause whiteheads.
Chemical peels involves the application of chemical solution to the skin which exfoliate the outer layer and helps unclog pores and reduce whiteheads and blackheads.
6.LASER THERAPY
Laser treatment such as laser resurfacing or intense pulse light therapy can target acne causing bacteria , reduce oil production.
HOW TO PREVENT BLACKHEADS AND WHITEHEADS
- Wash your face twice a day with a lukewarm water and gentle cleanser.
- Use oil-free and non-comedogenic skin care and makeup product.
- Avoid touching your face with your hands ,this can transfer bacteria and oil.
- Exfoliate your skin once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
- Use sunscreen to prevent sun damage and further breakouts.
- Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption ,as these can lead to skin damage and breakouts.
- Keep your hair off your face,as oil from your hair can transfer oil and bacteria.