Black Heads or Comendones

What are Black heads or comendones ?

Black heads or comendones as they are technically known are caused by partially blocked pores. The black appearance is not dirt in the pore but the oxidising effect air has on the sebum (oil) in a blocked pore turning it black and the melanin pigment from the dead cells. They are most commonly found on oily areas of the the face especially the chin , nose, forehead and sides of the nostrils. Very oily skin may also have blackheads on the cheeks and tip of the nose. In addition they can occur on the chest, back and anywhere where there is build up of oily sebum.

If left untreated the blackhead will continue to build up until it stretches the pore permanently. This is why areas that have blackheads often have open pores that clog easily and this produce more blackheads.

How can I get rid of Black heads ?

The best way to treat black heads is to remove the cause of them., One of which is the excessive oil in the skin and the other is the dead skin cells sat on the surface of the skin.

Try to avoid products that are too harsh, this will strip the skin of oils this may then lead to production of more sebum which will ultimately lead to more blocked pores. Try to use cleansing products that are natural and not to astringent.

How do I reduce the appearance of blackheads , open or blocked pores ?

Use a clay mask weekly this will help extract and absorb the oils in the blocked pore on your skin.

Exfoliating the skin will remove dead skin cells.

Visit our Specialist skin care practitioners at Innercore Clinics for a skin analysis.

Microdermabrasion

Chemical Peels

Can I extract blackheads ?

No if you try and forcibly extract your blackheads with your fingers, fingernails or blackhead remover (comendone) you can cause permanent damage to the pores. You may squeeze some of the blackhead out , but by doing this you could also force some of it even deeper into the skin, which may lead to infection (larger spots, pimples or even cysts). You must try and avoid to touch your skin on your face to prevent cross infection.

Can I reduce the appearance of my black heads with Diet ?

You can help reduce the appearance of blackheads if you have a good balance diet and avoid certain foods. This will aim to reduce the production of sebum, help with the production of new skin cells and increase moisture to the skin. Eating fresh fruit and vegetables, drinking plenty of water and avoiding cooked carbohydrates and fats.

For more information please contact our Dietician at Inner core Therapy Clinic

What treatments can help to reduce the appearance of blackheads?

Microdermabrasion

A series of gylcolic peels can also help. A peel will quickly slough off dead cells while removing some of the debris from the pores. Six Peels are usually recommended.

What products will help with black heads?

Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) are a good product to use. They gently exfoliate the skin to prevent cells from building up the pores