Understanding The Difference Between Blackheads, Whiteheads, And Milia
If you've ever found yourself worrying about those tiny, stubborn spots on your skin, you're not alone. Understanding the difference between blackheads, whiteheads, and milia will help you better treat the problem at hand! In this article, we'll discuss what these blemishes are, their underlying causes, prevention methods, and effective treatments. Let's dive in!
What Is A Blackhead?
A blackhead, also known as an open comedone, is a small, dark-colored lesion on the skin caused by a clogged hair follicle. The dark color is due to the oxidation of sebum (oil) and dead skin cells that accumulate in the pore, turning black when exposed to air.
Underlying Causes Of Blackheads
Some common causes of blackheads include:
Excess sebum production: Overactive sebaceous glands produce more oil, increasing the chances of clogging pores.
Build-up of dead skin cells: Dead skin cells can accumulate within the pores and cause blockages.
Hormonal fluctuations: Hormones, such as androgens, can increase sebum production.
Certain medications: Medications like corticosteroids or birth control pills can contribute to the formation of blackheads.
How To Prevent Blackheads
Cleanse your face at night using a gentle cleanser, like the INNBEAUTY Project Foam Around Salicylic Acid Cleanser to remove excess oil and unclog pores.
Exfoliate your skin regularly to prevent the build-up of dead skin cells. Ensure proper exfoliation with Aprilskin Triple Acids Clay Mask
Use non-comedogenic products, such as the Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer which won't clog your pores.
Manage hormonal fluctuations through proper diet, stress management, and consulting with a physician if necessary.
How To Treat Blackheads
Use over-the-counter treatments containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or retinoids that help unclog pores and prevent the formation of new blackheads.
Apply pore patches, like Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Nose, to remove blackheads.
Consult a dermatologist or aesthetician for professional extraction or chemical peels.
Avoid squeezing blackheads as it can lead to scarring and infection.
What Are Milia?
Milia are small, white, benign cysts that occur when keratin, a protein found in skin, hair, and nails, gets trapped under the skin. Unlike whiteheads or blackheads, milia are not acne-related and are caused by trapped dead skin cells.
Milia vs. Whiteheads
While both milia and whiteheads are characterized by small, white bumps on the skin, they have different causes and characteristics. Whiteheads are acne-related and form when a hair follicle is clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. Milia, on the other hand, develop when dead skin cells become trapped underneath the skin.
How To Prevent Milia
Avoid picking at blemishes as this can lead to inflammation and infection.
Use a gentle facial cleanser, like the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, to reduce excess oil production.
Exfoliate your skin regularly with an exfoliator containing AHAs, BHAs, or enzymes to keep skin clear of excess dead skin cells.
Avoid using heavy creams and oils which can block pores and irritate the skin.
How To Treat Milia
Consult a dermatologist or aesthetician for professional extraction or chemical peels to safely remove milia.
Apply retinoid creams, such as the La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum, at night to help reduce milia.
Keep your skin hydrated with a gentle moisturizer, like the Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer.
What Is a Whitehead?
A whitehead, also known as a closed comedone, is a small, raised bump on the skin caused by a clogged hair follicle. Unlike blackheads, they are closed at the surface and appear white due to trapped sebum (oil) and dead skin cells.
Underlying Causes Of Whiteheads
Common causes of whiteheads include:
Excess sebum production: Overactive sebaceous glands create an excess of oil, which can block and lead to whiteheads.
Build-up of dead skin cells: Dead skin cells accumulate within the pores and cause blockages.
Hormonal fluctuations: Hormones, such as androgens, can increase sebum production.
Certain medications: Medications like corticosteroids or birth control pills can contribute to the formation of whiteheads.
How To Prevent & Treat Whiteheads
While the appearance of whiteheads and blackheads is different, how we prevent and treat them is broadly speaking the same: cleanse regularly, incorporate exfoliation, and avoid comedogenic products.
7 Best Products for Whiteheads
PanOxyl Antimicrobial Acne Wash
PanOxyl Antimicrobial Acne Wash is a powerful cleanser that helps to deep clean pores and remove dirt, oil, and bacteria. This wash contains 4% benzoyl peroxide to help reduce the appearance of whiteheads and other acne-related blemishes. It also has antibacterial properties, which can help prevent future breakouts.
Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster is a lightweight serum that helps to reduce the appearance of whiteheads and other blemishes, while also providing gentle hydration. This booster contains 10% azelaic acid to help clear the skin of debris and dead skin cells, which can lead to clogged pores and whiteheads.
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Intensives Night Serum
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Intensives Night Serum is a nightly serum that helps to reduce the appearance of whiteheads, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. This serum contains retinol and hyaluronic acid to help balance oil production and keep skin hydrated, which can help reduce the appearance of whiteheads.
SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3
SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 is an intensive night cream that helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and blemishes, including whiteheads. This formula contains 0.3% retinol to help improve skin tone and texture while keeping pores clear of build-up.
Saturday Skin Pore Active Treatment Serum
Saturday Skin Pore Active Treatment Serum is a lightweight serum that helps to reduce the appearance of whiteheads, blackheads, and acne-related blemishes. This serum contains AHAs and BHAs to help exfoliate the skin and dissolve any build-up in the pores.
Starface Hyrdo-Stars
Starface Hydro-Stars are revolutionary patches that help to reduce the appearance of whiteheads while also hydrating the skin. These unique star-shaped hydrocolloid patches absorb excess oil and protect skin from further irritation, making them a great way to treat whiteheads overnight.
COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch
COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch is an innovative patch that helps to reduce the appearance of whiteheads and other blemishes while also protecting them from further irritation. These patches are made with a special hydrocolloid material that helps to absorb excess oil and provide a protective barrier against bacteria. They can be used overnight for maximum effectiveness.
