WHAT IS IT? WHAT ARE THE CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS?

Blackheads, pimples and whiteheads can affect all skins and all ages and may be caused by a combination of genetics, health and environment. They are commonly seen in teenagers and those who are in their early 20’s. However, there are cases where blackheads and whiteheads can affect those in their thirties and forties, especially those with oily skin.

Both blackheads and whiteheads are forms of acne. And like all acne, the problem with blackheads and whiteheads starts deep down the sebaceous or oil glands.

The sebaceous glands secrete oils called sebum, which is stored in the follicle. When the follicle is full, the oil overflows keeping the skin healthy and moisturised.

Blackheads and whiteheads form when the oil is trapped inside the hair follicle causing bacteria to develop in the follicle and leads to forming comedones.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BLACKHEAD AND A WHITEHEAD?

​Blackheads, also known as open comedones, form when:

  • Excess sebum (or oil) production is stimulated
  • Excess oil, dry skin and debris combine and become trapped in the pore
  • The pore becomes plugged and the surface oxidises to a dark brown or black colour giving it the blackhead name.

Whiteheads, commonly known as pimples or closed comedones, (which may sometimes be characterised as Grade 1 Acne) form when:

  • Excess sebum (or oil) production is stimulated
  • Excess oil, dry skin and debris combine and become trapped in the pore
  • The pore becomes clogged and P. Acnes (Propionibacterium Acnes) bacteria proliferate causing infection.

The lack of exposure to the air does not lead to the oxidation of melanin (like a blackhead), so the clogged matter stays white.

Blackheads and whiteheads are not affected by fatty or sugary diets and are a common condition that can be successfully treated.

TREATMENT SOLUTIONS

MICRODERMABRASION

Microdermabrasion is an ideal option for the removal of blackheads and whiteheads due to the deeply exfoliating nature of the treatment. The gentle vacuum with a diamond-coated head will exfoliate the top layer of dead skin removing potential clogging whilst providing refined and clarified skin.

CHEMICAL PEELS

Chemical Peels provide superficial to medium depth exfoliation for blackheads and whiteheads using products that include glycolic acid and lactic acids (AHAs), salicylic acid (BHA), retinoids (vitamin A), resorcinol, mandelic acid, niacinamide (vitamin B3) and enzymes. The appropriate Chemical Peel can provide a simultaneous action to decongest, de-clog and disinfect skin affected by blackheads and whiteheads whilst reducing inflammation and preventing future breakouts.

CARBON LASER PEEL

The Carbon Laser Peel, also known as the ‘China Doll Peel’ (named for its porcelain doll-like finish to the skin) is an innovative laser resurfacing treatment that utilises focused light beams to treat skin imperfections. The Carbon Laser Peel treatment works by applying a thin layer of carbon to the skin’s surface. Once evenly distributed, a focused light beam is emitted for a precise and targeted area. The carbon particles actively absorb the light before a vacuum suction gently removes them, along with damaged cells found in the upper layers of the skin.

The production of thermal energy stimulates the synthesis of fresh collagen and the promotion of a healthy-looking complexion. Skin structure is visibly strengthened and even opened pores purified and cleared.