What causes a massive blackhead to form?

A blackhead refers to something scientifically known as a 'comedone'.

Comedones are formed as a result of the blockade of the duct of something known as the ‘pilosebaceous unit'. This entity consists of a hair follicle and attached to it a structure which is known as the 'sebaceous gland.’ This gland is the oil producing factory of our skin and this oil production is in part controlled by androgens or the male hormones, which in a small quantity are also present in females making comedones and as a result acne vulgaris (pimples) a universal problem.

Now to understand this apparently complex description, just think of this as small oil wells lying beneath your skin and opening on to the surface via a pipe.

This oily substance is known as 'sebum’ and it contains cholesterol, wax, and wax esters as its main constituents. Its production can increase as a result of many factors :

Excess Androgens (Hormonal)

Use of certain cosmetics and topical medications (irritants,oily preparations)

Certain drugs and medications such as corticosteroids

Excess sebum production, in turn tends to irritate the epithelial lining of the duct causing a cellular hyperproliferation, and eventually increased proliferation of a commensal bacterium : Propionibacterium acnes, which is present normally in small quantities as part of the pilosebaceous unit.

All these factors tend to cause the blockade of the duct, the outflow pipe of our oil glands,causing it to swell up and thus forming a comedone.

In the initial stages, there is a partial blockade, such that air and therefore oxygen can reach the collected sebum, cellular debris and oxidise the surface of this collection causing it to appear ‘black’. This is what is commonly knownas a blackhead.

And when this blockade becomes complete, and the duct is completely obliterated, oxygen can no longer reach this collected material causing the formation of what is known as a whitehead or a closed comedone.

Hence, even though a blackhead appears 'black' on the surface, pressing it and discharging it's material leads to expression of primarily sebum which is yellowish to white and mixed with this cellular debris of the cells lining the duct and few bacteria, all in all producing an oily whitish yellow dirty looking material.

And here is a guide about how to remove blackhead.

Comments

Does steaming your face help acne?

Regular facials with steam are wonderful skin care treatments that promote deep cleansing of pores. And increasing circulation to the face while giving that overall glowing complexion. Clogged pores are one of the key contributing factors to acne breakouts including (blackheads and whiteheads) and other certain skin infections. Whether you suffer from acne or have blemish-free skin, one of the best ways to cleanse facial pores is to steam your face. The warm steam causes your face to sweat, which opens the pores and helps soften the surface layer of dead skin cells, releasing dirt and debris that could be trapped in pores and lead to breakouts. Naturally, our bodies produce sebum which protects and lubricates the skin, but when it becomes trapped in our follicles, breakouts can occur. When steam is applied to the face, it softens and loosens pores and allows blackheads and etc. to be gently extracted from the surface of the skin by gently releasing them from follicular openings. While...

What natural products get rid of acne?

So what's the natural product? I think it is you can make it by yourself at home. There are some home remedies for acne. 1. Apply Apple Cider Vinegar Apple cider vinegar is made by fermenting apple cider, or the unfiltered juice from pressed apples. Apple cider vinegar contains several organic acids that have been shown to kill P. acnes. In particular, succinic acid has been shown to suppress inflammation caused by P. acnes, which may prevent scarring. What's more, apple cider vinegar may help dry up the excess oil that causes acne in the first place. How to Use It Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar and 3 parts water (use more water for sensitive skin). After cleansing, gently apply the mixture to the skin using a cotton ball. Let sit for 5–20 seconds, rinse with water and pat dry. Repeat this process 1–2 times per day, as needed. It is important to note that applying apple cider vinegar to your skin can cause burns and irritation, so it should always be used in s...

Luke Lady IPL Laser Epilator Hair Remover

Why pay thousands of dollars for a professional laser treatment to remove unwanted hair, at a fraction of the cost, yet with minimal pain with the help of the Laser Hair Remover ! The IPL technology has been thought, created and made to be a therapy for your skin as well as a hair removing method. It takes only 30 minutes to remove hair from your whole body. The IPL Laser Epilator removes hair permanently whenever you want. Plus it is 100% guaranteed harmless. This hair removal device effectively removes unwanted hairs and inhibits it from growing with continuous use. It works using laser technology that emits rapid light pulses. The pulse works under the skin's surface to target hairs at the root to inhibit their growth. It's gentle enough for everyday use and it won't cause irritation at all! From what body parts can you remove hair? Arms Legs Face Armpits Back Bikini line And any part of your body that you want ...

Lukelady Skin Care & Beauty