Blackheads

As one of the evil cousins of Acne, Blackheads are especially distasteful due to their black nature – hence the name blackheads.  But where do they come from and how are they formed?

Blackheads are caused by excess oils that have accumulated in duct of the sebaceous glands.  This can be due to excess make-up or an excess build up of oil (secreted from the face).  The excess accumulation causes the natural bacteria to multiply and cause the blackhead to appear. The substance found in these bumps consists of sebum and keratin.  As the sebum and keratin oxidize (a process in which atoms have their oxidation number changed) they darken, often times resembling and collecting dirt and foreign particles from the air.

Blackheads are not always black, though most of the time the form of acne vulgaris which is identified as blackheads, portray the characteristics of actual black coloration, blackheads can also take the form of a yellowish bump along the skin.

Due to the natural effects of adolescence, where the glands of the face are enlarged due to different levels of hormones, teens are often the ones with the most blackheads.  Unfortunately, as one passes through puberty and on through the rest of his or her life, blackheads still may occur. Just as with any case of acne, there are treatments for blackheads. 

Since blackheads are caused by the excess accumulation of oils, make-up, or air-born dirt and grime, most of the treatments involve the removal and/or reversal of the introduced agent.  Other treatments and medications help to change the composition of the skin so they are not so susceptible to the harmful effects of the outside environment.

Get rid of your blackheads today. 

If you would like to find out about some of the best acne products which aid in the removal of blackheads, keep reading below…