Table of Contents
- What are Blackheads?
- What are Whiteheads?
- Key Differences Between Blackheads & Whiteheads
- What Causes Blackheads & Whiteheads?
- How do you stop Blackheads and Whiteheads from forming?
- How to get rid of Blackheads and Whiteheads?
- Simply put,
- FAQ
Are you standing in front of the mirror picking at your face? Trying to pop out the clogged gunk on your nose wondering if it's a blackhead or a whitehead. When you look at it, it is pretty necessary to understand the difference between blackheads and whiteheads to correctly treat them.
This blog will provide you with the necessary information like causes, prevention and treatment options that will help you get rid of your blackheads vs whiteheads on nose issue.
What are Blackheads?
A Blackhead is a type of clogged pore. Black heads appear on the skin in the form of tiny black dots as if there's dirt stuck in your pores. Blackheads are open comedones that are exposed to the air. The build up in the pores when exposed to the air can cause the pore to turn dark. Blackheads commonly appear on the nose, where oil production is high.
What are Whiteheads?
Similar to blackheads, Whiteheads are also comedones that are formed when the pore is clogged by excess oil or dead skin cells. Whiteheads are closed comedones and are not exposed to the air. This prevents the pore from turning dark. They appear in the form of little white bumps commonly on the nose, chin and forehead.
Key Differences Between Blackheads & Whiteheads
If you're confused about how blackheads and white heads are different from each other? or how do you know if you have blackheads or whiteheads?, then below is a quick breakdown of the two:
|
Blackheads |
Whiteheads |
|
|
Appearance |
They are open comedones that appear as small black dots on your skin. |
They are closed comedones that appear as small white bumps on the skin. |
|
Commonly found on |
They form on areas with large pores such as the nose, forehead and chin. |
They can form anywhere on the skin but are mostly found on the nose, chin and forehead. |
|
Treatment |
They can be treated with salicylic acid, retinoids and pore strips. |
They can be treated with consistent exfoliation as well as over-the-counter products. |
What Causes Blackheads & Whiteheads?
Blackheads form when sebum, dead skin cells and pollutants get accumulated and block the hair follicles. These pores are dilated due to the buildup and exposed to the air which oxidizes the substance inside the pores and turns them black.
Whiteheads form when dead skin cells, impurities and sebum get collected in the hair follicles. Whiteheads remain closed pores and are not exposed to the oxidation effect. Only a white lump appears below the skin surface.
How do you stop Blackheads and Whiteheads from forming?
In order to avoid blackheads and whiteheads, you need to have an energetic approach in taking care of your skin. Following the below preventive measures can help reduce the chances of a black or white head from forming:
Keep a clean skin
Use a gentle face wash twice a day to get rid of dirt, oil, sweat and other impurities from the skin and give your face a refreshing feeling.
Exfoliate the skin
Incorporate a gentle scrub into your skin regimen to get rid of clingy dead skin cells on your face and reduce the likelihood of clogged pores.
Look for non-comedogenic
Opt for non-comedogenic skincare products that are formulated with ingredients that guarantee to not cause clogged pores.
Keep skin hydrated
Make sure to use a moisturizer that helps to keep your skin hydrated and maintains the skin's barrier preventing compensatory oil production.
Apply SPF regularly
It's necessary to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays by using a sunscreen with a higher SPF level or broad spectrum protection.
How to get rid of Blackheads and Whiteheads?
The treatment for blackheads and whiteheads are similar. There are various over-the-counter options and even prescription options. If you're dealing with stubborn blackheads or whiteheads, consulting a professional will better help assess the issue and treat it. Below are some ways you can say bye-bye to blackheads and whiteheads:
Cleanse & Exfoliate
The most effective way to remove blackheads and whiteheads is by keeping oil and dead skin cells at bay. Face wash is designed to clean excess sebum and dirt and face scrubs help remove dead skin cells and impurities from deep within.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a BHA and is a recommended ingredient for managing blackheads and whiteheads because it penetrates the pores on a deeper level and helps break down oil and dead skin buildup. Also niacinamide helps improve the appearance of pores.
Spot Treatment
A more targeted treatment would be to opt for spot gels or creams. They are applied only on the areas where the blackheads or whiteheads have appeared.
Retinoids
Retinol or tretinoin are forms of retinoids that help prevent clogged pores and promote cell turnover. Retinoids also help reduce the appearance of already existing blackheads and whiteheads. Talk to a dermat before you start using retinoids.
Pore Strips
When in need of a quick fix for blackheads and whiteheads, you can occasionally opt for products like peel-off masks, nose strips or charcoal masks. These skincare options help pull out oil, dirt and pollutants from the pores.
Simply put,
Whether a blackhead or a whitehead, you should get rid of it right away before it turns into something serious like active acne. Knowing the difference between both can help you select effective solutions to treat them. When it comes to blackheads, they are open clogged pores and on the other hand whiteheads are closed clogged pores.
Taking care of your skin and maintaining it regularly can help prevent blackheads and whiteheads. So take on a proactive approach for achieving a healthy, blemish-free skin.
FAQ
Do whiteheads turn into blackheads?
No, whiteheads do not turn into blackheads. Whiteheads are closed pores and blackheads are open pores that are clogged and one does not transform into the other.
Should we remove whiteheads?
Yes, you should remove whiteheads using targeted treatments such as face exfoliation or salicylic acid products. You can also consult a dermatologist for stubborn whiteheads.
What's the difference between blackheads and whiteheads?
The main difference between blackheads and whiteheads is the type of comedones they are. Blackheads are open pores that look like small black dots. Whiteheads are closed pores that look like small white bumps.
Why am I suddenly getting whiteheads?
Several factors such as hormonal changes, stress, diet or products you use on your face can trigger the formation of whiteheads on your skin.
Should you pop a whitehead?
No, it's not recommended to pop out whiteheads because it can cause skin irritation and worsen the condition. Instead use a proper skincare treatment to get rid of whiteheads.
Why is my chin full of whiteheads?
The chin area has higher oil production levels that lead to clogged pores. Certain factors like stress, diet or hormone fluctuations can trigger the formation of whiteheads on the chin.
Written by Madiha Patel
