Preventing and treating blackheads : Your online pharmacy selection

What are comedones and how do they form?

A comedo is a type of skin lesion mainly associated with acne. It forms when the skin's pores become clogged with excess sebum, dead skin cells and sometimes make-up, creating a favorable environment for the proliferation of bacteria. There are two types of blackheads: blackheads and whiteheads. Blackheads appear when an obstructed pore remains open, with oxidation causing black discoloration. Whiteheads, on the other hand, form below the skin's surface and remain white or yellowish in color.

What are the main causes of blackheads?

Blackheads are mainly caused by

• Excessive sebum production: often linked to hormonal factors.
• Accumulation of dead skin: which can clog pores.
• Use of comedogenic products: certain beauty products or moisturizers can contribute to clogged pores.
• Genetic factors: the tendency to develop acne may be hereditary.
• Hormonal changes: particularly during puberty, pregnancy or certain medications.

How can blackheads be prevented?

To prevent the appearance of blackheads, we recommend :

• Cleanse regularly: Use a mild cleanser twice a day to remove excess sebum and impurities.
• Exfoliate skin: Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores.
• Use non-comedogenic products: Check that your skincare and make-up products are formulated not to clog pores.
• Maintain a balanced diet: Reducing consumption of foods rich in fats and sugars can help regulate sebum production.
• Manage stress: Stress can influence sebum production, so finding relaxation techniques can be beneficial.

What treatments are effective against blackheads?

Treatments for blackheads vary according to the severity of the acne:

• Topical treatments: Products containing retinol, salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can be applied directly to the skin to help break down blackheads.
• Oral treatments: For more severe cases, oral medications such as antibiotics or isotretinoin may be prescribed by a dermatologist.
• Physical therapies: Techniques such as manual comedo extraction, microdermabrasion or laser treatments can be used to treat existing comedones and improve skin condition.

What's the difference between an open and a closed comedo?

An open comedo, commonly known as a blackhead, is characterized by an enlarged pore filled with sebum that oxidizes on contact with air, giving it a black color. On the other hand, a closed comedo, or whitehead, is formed by an obstructed pore beneath the skin's surface with no visible opening, remaining white or the color of the skin.

Can blackheads cause scarring?

Yes, comedones can cause scarring, especially if they are handled incorrectly. Excessive pressure or unprofessional removal of comedones can cause deeper inflammation, leading to acne scars or pigment spots. We recommend treating blackheads with gentle methods and consulting a dermatologist for suitable treatments.

What impact does diet have on blackheads?

Although no food directly causes comedones, certain diets can aggravate acne. Foods with a high glycemic index, such as sweets and refined products, can stimulate the overproduction of sebum, facilitating the formation of comedones. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains can help maintain healthy skin and reduce the likelihood of clogged pores.

Can natural remedies be used to treat blackheads?

Several natural remedies can be effective in gently treating blackheads:

• Tea tree oil: known for its antibacterial properties, it can help reduce acne-causing bacteria.
• Honey and cinnamon: used together, they offer anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.
• Aloe vera: helps soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. However, it's important to test these remedies on a small area of the skin before widespread application to avoid allergic reactions.

How does stress influence blackhead formation?

Stress doesn't directly cause comedones, but it can aggravate acne by stimulating the adrenal glands to produce more hormones, which can then increase sebum production. In addition, stress can affect the immune system, making the skin more susceptible to bacterial infection. Managing stress through activities such as yoga, meditation or regular exercise can therefore help control the appearance of blackheads.