Blackheads and Whiteheads: Causes, Treatments, and Preventions

Blackheads and whiteheads are prevalent types of acne that form when hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells, bacteria, and oil. They usually appear on the face due to excess oil production, hormonal changes, or improper skincare.

Blackheads, also known as open comedones, are small dark dots that appear on the skin when hair follicles become clogged. They remain open at the surface, allowing the material trapped in them to turn dark. Blackheads are considered to be a mild form of acne and commonly occur on the face, usually in the nose and cheek area, but they can also appear on the forehead, chin, back, chest, and shoulders. 

On the other hand, whiteheads, also known as open comedones, remain covered by a thin layer of skin, which prevents oxidation and keeps them white or flesh-colored, making it harder to see them. They are also quite similar to blackheads, as they are formed in the same way and are also found in the same areas of the face and body.

Whiteheads and blackheads are considered issues because they affect both skin health and appearance. They are a form of acne, which, left untreated, can eventually lead to breakouts. Furthermore, clogged pores eventually stretch over time, making them more noticeable and more difficult to remove. For many people, this can impact their self-confidence. 

Fortunately, it is easy to treat these two types of acne by following a consistent skincare routine and using the right products. It is important to cleanse twice daily, as it helps remove excess dirt and oil from the face, allowing pores to remain unclogged, and it also breaks down oil which unclogs pores. For this we recommend using BBA’s Gentle Skin Cleanser. It is also important to exfoliate regularly, so using BBA’s SH Gentle Exfoliation Serum would be a good choice, but if you are looking for a slightly stronger more targeted treatment, it would be good to use BBA’s SH AHA+BHA Exfoliating/Peeling Serum, as it will exfoliate the top most layer of the skin and give it a smooth glow, removing any dead skin cells and excess dirt with it. 

In addition to skincare, it is necessary to maintain hygiene. Change pillowcases frequently to prevent bacteria buildup, and clean your phone screen regularly to prevent the transfer of bacteria and dirt to your face. It is also important to avoid pore-clogging products like harsh scrubs, alcohol-based toners, and makeup that might clog pores.

To have a more consistent layout of how to get rid of blackheads and whiteheads, here's a simple routine to follow:

Cleansing: Use a gentle cleanser that can remove excess dirt and oil from the face like BBA’s Gentle Skin Cleanser.

Exfoliation: Use a good exfoliant, like BBA’s SH Gentle Exfoliation Serum or  SH AHA+BHA Exfoliating/Peeling Serum, 2-3 times a week as a more concentrated treatment that will prevent clogged pores.

Moisturizer: Use an oil-free, lightweight moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated without clogging pores. For this, it would be good to use BBA’s Oil Free Facial Moisturizer.

Sunscreen: It is always important to keep your skin protected from the sun, so use BBA’s Suns-Out Sunscreen to prevent irritation and dark spots.

In conclusion, blackheads and whiteheads are quite common but manageable skin concerns. With a consistent skincare routine that includes the simple steps above, you can effectively treat them and prevent them.