What Causes Blackheads and How Are They Treated

Blackheads are one of the most common types of pimples, especially among people with oily skin. Where it was once believed that blackheads were caused from not washing the skin, it is now known that they are actually caused by oil build-up on the skin.

The "black" appearance of blackheads is caused by the oxidizing of air on the oil clogging the pores and causing the pimple known as a blackhead. The melanin pigment in the skin also contributes to their dark color. The best way to remove blackheads is to remove their cause, excessive oil and dead skin cells.

You should use gentle products to treat and eliminate blackheads. Harsh products can actually strip the skin of needed oil, which, in turn, causes it to produce more oil, which then blocks the pores and causes the process to begin all over again.

Some people prefer using natural products that contain natural oils to cleanse the skin, as they are often more gentle. Many of these oils are close to our natural oils, so they don't block pores like many synthetic products.

To remove dead skin cells, it is advised to use a gentle exfoliant everyday. This keeps pores from becoming blocked by the dead skin cells. Take care to use this product gently as well, so as not to over exfoliate and irritate the skin.

Stay away from products containing alcohol, mineral oil, and other harsh products that may redden and irritate the skin.

Do not try to forcibly extract blackheads. By picking at or squeezing them, you may remove some of the blackhead, but may also push some of it deeper within the skin, causing further irritation and infection. It is better to use gentle products that will help blackheads dry up and go away on their own. While this may seem to take longer than ridding them yourself, it can be better for your skin in the long run because you will be allowing it to heal naturally by itself.

Though diet has been reported to not affect acne, it is still advised that you eat properly. Some physicians still maintain that a proper diet can help decrease oil production, provide proper moisture to the skin, and help facilitate new and healthy skin cells. This, in turn, will decrease the appearance of blackheads, and stop the formation of new ones.

Though as mentioned above, blackheads are often prevalent in people with oily skin, but they can occur with other skin types, though not as often. Carefully choose your skin care products. They are essential to having healthy skin and a healthy complexion. Eat healthy and keep your body well hydrated. Water is essential to healthy skin. If blackheads occur, take the proper steps to eliminate them. Be gentle to your skin. If you are unable to treat blackheads by using over-the-counter products, seek the care of a physician.